By Staff
WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman Fred Upton (R-St. Joseph) yesterday reminded southwest Michigan's seniors that they have just 100 days until the new Medicare prescription drug benefit fully takes effect.
The landmark new program provides all of the 1,447,595 Medicare beneficiaries in Michigan with the voluntary option of joining a Medicare prescription drug plan.
The 85,000+ seniors in the 6th District who are eligible to participate in the Medicare drug program can sign up for specific drug plans starting Nov. 15.
"I want to be sure that every senior in southwest Michigan is aware that real savings are just 100 days away," said Upton. "The drug plans are especially important for low income seniors. Beginning this Nov. 15th, all seniors will have the opportunity to sign up for Medicare's new prescription drug plan. Under this new, voluntary plan, Southwest Michigan's 85,000 Medicare beneficiaries will have access to more affordable prescription drugs. Seniors can take these savings to the bank."
Important points seniors need to know:
Medicare prescription drug coverage helps seniors pay for the prescriptions they need.
Medicare prescription drug coverage is available to all people with Medicare.
There is additional help for those who need it most.
Medicare prescription drug coverage pays for brand name as well as generic drugs.
In October, all Medicare beneficiaries will receive the booklet Medicare and You that will provide details and tips on selecting drug programs. To take advantage of the savings and sign up for the plan, or to learn more about the options available in their area, seniors should call 1-800-MEDICARE or visit www.medicare.gov .
Seniors can receive free, personalized counseling from the Michigan Medicare/Medicaid Assistance Program by calling 1-800-803-7174. Seniors can also find information on the program on Upton's website at www.house.gov/upton . Upton has also put together a comprehensive fact sheet for seniors that is available on his website, and hard copies are available at his district offices in the Twin Cities and Kalamazoo.
Starting Jan. 1, 2006, Medicare will offer insurance coverage for prescription drugs through Medicare prescription drug plans and other health plan options. Medicare's new prescription drug coverage will typically pay over half of seniors' drug costs next year, for a monthly premium. It will also provide peace of mind because it protects enrollees once their out-of-pocket drug spending is more than $3,600 a year.
Insurance companies and other private companies will work with Medicare to provide a choice of plans that cover both brand name and generic drugs.
To enroll, seniors must have Medicare Part A and/or Medicare Part B. Seniors can first enroll in a plan in their area from Nov. 15, 2005 through May 15, 2006.