Seniors who want to sign up for a Medicare prescription drug plan, or who want to select a different plan that better fits their needs have the opportunity to do so during the open enrollment period that runs through December 31st.  Seniors who are satisfied with their current Medicare prescription drug plan do not need to take action.  

The most important aspect of Medicare prescription drug coverage is that seniors are given choices to make decisions that best fit their individual needs.  The benefit is voluntary and may not make sense for each individual now, but as health needs change, it’s important that seniors can make their own decisions depending on their own personal circumstances. I encourage all seniors to carefully review their options during the open enrollment period so that they can make informed decisions about their personal health care. 

In 2003, Congress modernized the Medicare program by expanding health care options for seniors who want more choices, while preserving the traditional Medicare program for seniors who prefer that.  The creation of the first-ever Medicare prescription drug benefit was one of the major improvements made.  The voluntary prescription drug benefit offers seniors several choices of prescription drug plans with affordable premiums, low deductibles and extra help for seniors who need it most.  

While the Medicare prescription drug benefit system may not be perfect, millions of seniors are participating and saving money.  

There are many resources available to answer questions and help guide you through the process of reviewing Medicare prescription drug options and choosing a plan that best meets your needs.  I encourage anyone who has questions to call 1-800-MEDICARE, or contact the Statewide Health Insurance Advisors at 1-800-562-6900, or by e-mail at shibahelpline@oic.wa.gov  Plan options are also outlined in the “2009 Medicare and You” handbook that the federal government has mailed to seniors. 

This is an opportunity for Medicare beneficiaries who are not currently enrolled in a prescription drug plan to decide whether or not they would like to participate and sign up for coverage.  And, seniors whose health needs have changed in the last year have an opportunity to select a different plan through December 31st.  Selecting the right plan will help seniors maintain a healthy lifestyle in 2008.  I encourage all seniors to review their options.