Get Covered--Medicare Prescriptions

Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage (referred to as Medicare Part D) is available to anyone eligible for Medicare Parts A or B.

There are two ways to get the prescription drug plan (PDP). If you already have prescription drug coverage with a Medicare Advantage (MA) plan, you’ll be placed automatically into a Medicare Advantage plus Prescription Drug Plan (MA-PD) effective January 1, 2006. The MA-PD will replace the plan you have now.

If you already have a Medicare plan or a Medicare supplement (Medigap) plan, but no prescription drug coverage, you can add the PDP. Consult with your insurer about your current coverage and before making any changes to your policies.

Though joining a PDP is not a requirement, if you don’t have prescription drug coverage with your Medicare plan or Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policy, seriously consider this option as you will probably save money on your prescription drugs. If you have a limited income, you may qualify for a Medicare PDP with little or no premiums. Call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 for information.

Be sure to carefully compare costs and benefits as they vary. Some PDPs may cover more drugs, but charge higher premiums, or greater deductibles and co-pays. Call 1-800-633-4227 to order the handbook Medicare & You 2006. It lists the comparative information about the PDPs in your area. You can visit www.medicare.gov for the same information and to enroll in a plan, though not all insurers offer their plans on that site.

Before you join any plan, make sure it’s approved by Medicare. Call 1-800-Medicare (1-800-633-4227) 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for help in deciding which PDP to choose.