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Medicare participants review Plan D options
It's that time of year - the time for Medicare participants to re-evaluate their part D plans. The big question is have you checked your options yet?
Some Medicare participants are finding the right plan for themselves through informational meetings. But first, what exactly is part D of Medicare? It's the prescription drug portion of Medicare. It's a separate plan that helps people pay for prescription drugs. With thirty three plans available this year it can be a complicated and confusing choice to make. Dozens of people line up at Mary Lanning Hospital ready to check their options. "It's just a good idea to check, see if there's a better option and if there is, this is your time to switch," said SHIIP Nebraska Director Alicia Jones Your current plan will carry over if you don't change it during the open enrollment period. But, be aware that the price you pay at your pharmacy could go up. "If you don't come in and check, you could have saved $500 to $600 throughout the year and you wouldn't even know it," Jones said. Saving money is important to these people. "Well just to be sure that you're getting the most economical thing, the best coverage," said enrollee Marilyn Kelley. Groups like SHIIP (the Senior Health Insurance information program) help seniors break down their options to find out what's best for them. Marilyn Kelley knows just what she's looking for. "Probably the cheapest premium, but the best coverage," said Kelley. She says the enrollment event is a huge help. "My sister's with me today and hers we found big savings between the plan she had been on and the one that she's switching to is like over $700," Kelley said. Lois Frahm says one of her medications costs over $150 a month, but she only pays $34, thanks to her part D plan. "It's great, you got a little more spending money to buy grocery's with," said Frahm. The open enrollment period runs through December 7th. You can sign up for a plan yourself online at medicare.gov. But, if you'd like assistance you can call SHIIP Nebraska at 1-800-234-7119. |
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