If you are a Medicare beneficiary, one of the most confusing and difficult tasks is deciding which Medicare Part D drug plan is the right one for you. And, after you have been enrolled, you may, at some time during the year, hit the dreaded coverage gap, or “donut hole” – the period during which you will have to pay 100% of your drug costs, which is more than $2700 in 2008.
The following resources should help you better understand how the Medicare system works and where you can get help if you are having difficulty paying for you medications.
One of the most helpful online resources is the Medicare website, which allows you to compare prescription drug plans, learn about plans offered in each state, view each plan’s formulary, and download appeal and exception forms. If you are eligible for Medicare, you can select a plan and enroll online. You can get the same information by calling the Medicare help line at 800-633-4227.
Other sources of information include:
- AARP Prescription Drug Coverage: Provides step-by-step information on how to select an appropriate plan.
- Medicare Prescription Drug Plan Guide–How to Choose Your 2009 Plan. This guide is easy to follow and comes from a trade organization representing health insurance plans.
- SHIPtalk: The State Health Insurance Assistance Program provides one-on-one counseling and assistance to Medicare patients and their families.
- Partnership for Prescription Assistance: Some drug manufacturers offer free or low-cost drugs to qualified Medicare beneficiaries.
Lowering Costs in the Coverage Gap
Medicare officials suggest the following ways you can lower your costs:
- Explore national and community-based charitable programs that can help with drug costs. Information is available on the Benefits Checkup website
- Use pharmaceutical assistance programs. Many drug manufacturers offer assistance programs for people enrolled in Medicare Part D.
- Consider state pharmaceutical assistance programs that offer help with paying drug plan premiums or other drug costs.
- Apply for extra help. Enrollees who have limited income and resources may qualify for extra help through the Social Security Administration.
