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HOW TO ENROLL:
Everyone in Medicare is eligible for the Medicare prescription drug benefit, although it is entirely voluntary. Enrollment in the benefit begins November 15, 2005. Those who sign up before December 31, 2005 will have coverage starting January 1, 2006. Open enrollment for coverage in 2006 continues through May 15, 2006. Each person in Medicare will have their choice of several Medicare prescription drug plans, and there is additional assistance for those who need it. The Medicare prescription drug benefit covers brand name and generic drugs. Medicare beneficiaries can enroll online at www.medicare.gov and by phone (1-800-MEDICARE).
SAVINGS UNDER THE MEDICARE PRESCRIPTION DRUG BENEFIT:
Your costs will vary depending on which plan you choose. In general, you will pay a monthly premium (around $32 in 2006) and a yearly deductible ($250 in 2006). The Medicare prescription drug plan will pay for 75% of your drug costs up to $2,250. After your costs exceed $5,100, Medicare will cover 95%.
FOR THOSE WHO RECEIVE MEDICINES THROUGH MEDICAID:
If you are eligible for Medicare, but currently receive your prescription drugs through Medicaid, Medicare will provide you with your prescription drug benefit beginning in 2006. You will soon receive a notice from Medicare that you automatically qualify for assistance in paying for your medications. You will still need to choose and enroll in a drug plan. But don't worry if you have difficulty making a decision - Medicare will still enroll you in a plan automatically so that there are no gaps in your coverage. Medicare will let you know which plan you have been enrolled in by October 2005, and you can switch plans at any time.
FOR THOSE WITH EMPLOYER OR UNION COVERAGE:
Medicare is working with employers and unions to help you keep the coverage you already have. You should contact your benefits administrator and physician to decide whether you should keep your current coverage or switch to a Medicare plan. Please remember that if you drop your employer or union coverage, your eligibility for your employer/union plan may be affected.
FOR THOSE IN MANAGED CARE:
If you are currently in managed care and have drug coverage, you are free to keep it. If you do not have drug coverage, you can stay in your health plan and add a Medicare prescription drug plan.
NEW PREVENTIVE SERVICES NOW AVAILABLE:
After 40 years of providing coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, and surgeries, Medicare now covers preventive screenings. As part of the new Medicare law, every new Medicare beneficiary can receive a free initial physical exam. In addition to already covering screenings for glaucoma, as well as breast, cervical, colorectal, and prostate cancers, Medicare now covers new cholesterol, blood lipid, diabetes, and osteoporosis screenings, and new disease management programs.
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