The Medicare Part D (Prescription Drug Benefit) Update:

The Part D open enrollment period is approaching! 
All Medicare Beneficiaries are encouraged to compare
 plans to be sure they are on the one that is best for them.

 
The Part D Open Enrollment Period is November 15 - December 31, 2007.

If you are eligible for Medicare Part D and have not yet signed up for a Part D plan or would like
to enroll in a new prescription plan, you will be able to enroll from November 15 – December 31.    If you sign up for a plan during this time, your coverage will begin on January 1, 2008.  You might be assessed additional premium cost  if you did not sign up by the initial May 15, 2006 deadline.

Who is eligible to enroll for Medicare Part D coverage?

One can enroll if he/she is eligible for, or enrolled in Medicare Part A and/or enrolled  in Medicare Part B.  Eligibility includes people
aged 65 and older, and some younger people with disabilities. Additionally, individuals
currently enrolled in Medicaid and Medicare  are entitled to Medicare prescription (Part D) drug
benefits. Unlike other insurance plans, one cannot be denied coverage for health reasons. 

What if I currently have a limited income subsidy with Social Security to help pay
for my Part D plan or require extra assistance to pay for the costs?

If you currently receive a subsidy, you will receive a letter in the mail from the
Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) requiring you to re-apply.  Be looking for this information in the mail!

Help is available for people with lower incomes and limited savings.  To find out if you may qualify for prescription
 assistance, or to complete an application, call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213
 or their website www.ssa.gov/prescriptionhelp/.  
ServiceLink is also available to answer your questions:         
1-866-634-9412.

How can I enroll in a Part D plan?