Congresswoman Heather Wilson, First Congressional District of New Mexico

Seniors can call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) to talk to a Medicare representative, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048. Forms are available all around the country, including 30,000 pharmacies. No financial documents or complicated records are required.

When: Starting tomorrow, Nov. 15th, Medicare beneficiaries can sign up for the new prescription drug program and the benefits take effect on Jan. 1st.

Choices Available: Seniors in New Mexico with traditional Medicare can choose from 43 plans offered by 17 Medicare-approved plan providers that cover brand name and generic drugs. Seniors that want prescription drug coverage and additional benefits can sign up for a Medicare Advantage plan. New Mexico will have 12 Medicare Advantage plans with prescription drug coverage. The benefit is completely voluntary. Seniors with employer-sponsored benefits can keep that coverage.

Benefits and premiums: According to Medicare, many beneficiaries with no coverage today will save up to 50 percent on prescription drug costs under the new program. While every plan is different, an average plan according to Medicare will include: a $32 average monthly premium, a $250 annual deductible, coverage of 75 percent of drug costs from $250 to $2,250 annually covered by Medicare, and catastrophic coverage of 95 percent of drug costs over $3,600 annually covered by Medicare.

Lower-Cost Medicare Advantage plans: Seniors and Americans with disabilities who choose to enroll in Medicare Advantage Plans can get additional coverage at a lower cost, saving an average of $100 per month off their medical costs compared to traditional Medicare. Some Medicare Advantage prescription drug plans require no premium at all.

More benefits for seniors with limited means: About one-third of seniors will be eligible for a Medicare drug benefit with little or no premiums, low deductibles, and no gaps in coverage. Those with the lowest incomes will be assigned plans and will pay no premiums or deductibles. People with limited income may qualify if in 2006 they are single and have resources less than $11,500 or married and have resources less than $23,000.

Resources to help seniors pick a plan: In October, seniors began receiving the Medicare and You handbook in the mail, with information on how to enroll as well as what plans and benefits are available. A new comparison tool will be made available on www.medicare.gov. After entering your Medicare number, this tool can compare plans based upon your individual needs. Key dates:

May 15, 2006, is the last day to sign up without incurring a small penalty, and the final opportunity to change plans next year before 2007.

June 30, 2006, is the last day to sign up for a Medicare Advantage Plan.