Wednesday November 26, 2008
Medicare Part D
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See also: All Americans are deeply affected by the growing costs of healthcare, particularly the cost of prescription drugs. Those most affected are often senior citizens. As America continues to lead the world in the research and development of new drugs that improve and extend lives, we must do more to make access to those drugs affordable. The Medicare Prescription Drug and Modernization Act, enacted in late 2003, was an important step in achieving this goal. The legislation creates a new voluntary prescription drug benefit available to all Medicare beneficiaries. Those who want to stay with their current coverage may do so, and employers are encouraged to continue their retiree coverage through financial assistance. Low income beneficiaries will receive extra help in obtaining their medications.
For Help With Medicare
Those enrolled in Medicare or who think they may be eligible for the Medicare prescription drug plan can contact: The Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services by calling toll free at 1-800-MEDICARE or go online at www.medicare.gov or The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare by calling 1-208-334-5747. If you need special assitance, call the State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) by calling toll free 1-800-247-4422.In early October 2005, information on individual plans became available to all Medicare beneficiaries. This information can be obtained in a variety of ways. In early October 2005, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), the federal entity in charge of implementing the prescription drug benefit, sent informative booklets to all Medicare beneficiaries informing them of the available plans in their area and the way to sign up for a plan. In addition, a toll-free helpline, 1-800-MEDICARE, has been set up to answer questions from Medicare beneficiaries. Those beneficiaries with access to the Internet may search for plans according to price, drug requirements, and pharmacy preferences at www.medicare.gov. Beneficiaries needing personal assistance can call their local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) or local office on aging.
In Idaho, beneficiaries may reach the SHIP office toll free at (800) 247-4422. The Idaho Administration on Aging may be reached at (208) 334-3833. The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare can also provide assistance with drug plan enrollment at (208) 334-5747.
Finally, it is important for the families and friends of Medicare beneficiaries to also examine the new offerings. The advice of loved ones is invaluable in this process and can help beneficiaries select the appropriate plan.
Useful Links:
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services
Idaho Senior Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA)
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