Medicare has added coverage for prescription medicines. This means that people who have Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) or Medicare Part B (medical insurance) are able to get insurance to pay for part of their prescription drugs. Medicare is working with insurance companies to offer this benefit. It is available no matter what your income, illnesses, or drug costs.
You can sign up or change your plan between November 15 and December 31 each year. Your coverage will begin on January 1 of the new year. You should enroll this year if you are eligible, or you may have to pay more if you decide to join later.
Getting Ready for Medicare Part D
5 Questions to Help You Get Ready for the Drug Benefit
What is the Medicare Prescription Drug Plan?
What can I do to get ready?
- Write down the names and dosages of all prescription drugs that you are taking. This information will be important to decide on the right plan for you.
- Do you have drug coverage through a former employer; union; or Medigap? If so, you should have gotten a letter explaining the drug coverage. Make sure you keep the letter so that you can compare the current coverage to the new plans.
- List the cost and what you currently pay for drugs (if you have drug coverage through the above organizations).
- List the name, address and phone number for pharmacies you like to use.
- If you have a limited income or modest means, you can call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 to apply for extra help. You may also have gotten a letter from the SSA asking you to apply.
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Where can I get more information?
If you're looking for more information about Medicare Part D, familydoctor.org has compiled a list of additional resources that may be helpful.
More Information
Source
Written by familydoctor.org editorial staff.
American Academy of Family Physicians
Reviewed/Updated: 12/06
Created: 10/05