Medicare Part D
What is Medicare prescription drug coverage?
Medicare prescription drug coverage is insurance that covers both
brand-name and generic prescription drugs at participating pharmacies in
your area. Medicare prescription drug coverage provides protection for
people who have very high drug costs.
Who can get Medicare prescription drug coverage?
Everyone with Medicare is eligible for this coverage, regardless of income
and resources, health status, or current prescription expenses.
When can I get Medicare prescription
drug coverage?
You may sign up from November 15, 2005 to May 15, 2006. If you join by
December 31, 2005, your coverage will start January 1, 2006, and you won't
miss a day of coverage. If you don't sign up when you are first eligible
or by May 15, 2006, you may pay a penalty. Your next opportunity to enroll
is from November 15, 2006 to December 31, 2006.
How does Medicare prescription drug coverage work?
Your decision about Medicare prescription drug coverage depends on the
kind of health care coverage you have now. There are two ways to get
Medicare prescription drug coverage. You can join a Medicare prescription
drug plan or you can join a Medicare Advantage Plan or other Medicare
Health Plans that offer drug coverage.
Whatever plan you choose, Medicare drug coverage will help you by covering
brand-name and generic drugs at pharmacies that are convenient for you.
Like other insurance, if you join, you will pay a monthly premium, which
varies by plan, and a yearly deductible (no more than $250 in 2006). You
will also pay a part of the cost of your prescriptions, including a
copayment or coinsurance. Costs will vary depending on which drug plan you
choose. Some plans may offer more coverage and additional drugs for a
higher monthly premium. If you have limited income and resources, and you
qualify for extra help, you may not have to pay a premium or deductible.
Why should I get Medicare prescription drug coverage?
Medicare prescription drug coverage provides greater peace of mind by
protecting you from unexpected drug expenses. Even if you don't use a lot
of prescription drugs now, you should still consider joining. As we age,
most people need prescription drugs to stay healthy. For most people,
joining now means protecting yourself from unexpected prescription drug
bills in the future.
What if I have a limited income and resources?
There is extra help for people with limited income and resources. Almost 1
in 3 people with Medicare will qualify for extra help and Medicare will
pay for almost all of their prescription drug costs.
|
