Simple Steps for Picking a Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plan
1) Find out if you are eligible for additional help paying for a plan
You may be eligible for assistance paying for your prescription drug plan. To find out what the income guidelines are or to fill out an application for assistance please call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) or fill out an on-line application at www.socialsecurity.com or contact your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). You can speak with a SHIP counselor who will help you apply. After you apply for assistance you will receive a letter in the mail letting you know whether or not you qualify and what steps to take next. Please SAVE THIS LETTER.
2) Find a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan
Medicare offers a service to help you find a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan. Their Medicare Plan Finder under My Medicare Tools at www.medicare.gov will help you access the drug plans available in your area. You can also call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).
3) Select a plan
Based on the medications that you take, the cost of the plan, and whether you can continue to use your local pharmacy, select the plan that is the best fit for your needs.
4) Contact the Medicare Part D Plan for enrollment material
Call the plan and ask for an enrollment package or go to the plan website and enroll on-line. Medicare Prescription Drug Plan phone numbers and web sites are available on the Medicare web site or you can request them by contacting a Medicare representative at 1- 800-Medicare.
5) Complete the enrollment package and mail
If you are eligible for additional help, you must still send in an application to enroll in the plan that you choose.
6) Begin to use your prescription drug card
Once you have received your prescription drug identification card please remember to present the card to your Pharmacist when having a prescription filled. Contact the plan with any questions about your coverage. Your Sweetbay Pharmacist is always available to assist you in changing drugs or finding generic alternatives. If you have any questions or concerns about your medications, ask your pharmacist. Your Sweetbay Pharmacist is always available to assist you in changing drugs or finding generic alternatives. If you have any questions or concerns about your medications, ask your pharmacist.
Medicare Part D 2009 Highlights
