Medicare open enrollment for drug plans happening now

To All Medicare Beneficiaries,
Don’t forget — Medicare Open Enrollment for Part D (the drug plans) is Oct. 15 through Dec 7. Now is the time to compare your current Medicare Part D plan with all your options for 2013. You may find better coverage, higher quality or lower cost. Some plans offer prescription coverage when you’re in the coverage gap/donut hole but others don’t.
However, with the health care law (The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act also known as Obamacare) in 2013, there is at least a 52.5 percent discount off brand name prescription drugs and a 21 percent discount off generics when you’re in that donut hole.
By 2020, the coverage gap disappears.
It is very important that you consider not only the premium you’ll be paying for your Part D plan but also the formulary of that plan and your cost shares. Some plans may have lower premiums but either all the medications you need to take aren’t on their formulary or the price you pay can be significantly higher than what another plan offers. The website www.Medicare.gov offers a tool for comparing the 2013 Part D plans or you can call me at the Independent Living Center 235-7911, and I will be happy to assist you in making the best choice for your needs and your budget.
Patti Boily
Certified Medicare Counselor
Independent Living Center