Medicare Part D Enrollment Event
The Medicare annual open enrollment period for Part D drug plans began October 15 and runs through December 7. This annual open enrollment period is an opportunity for those who do not have Medicare prescription drug coverage to obtain coverage, and for those who currently have coverage to make sure they are on a plan that will provide the best coverage to meet their needs.
In 2015 Iowa will have 29 stand-alone drug plans, compared to 32 for 2014. There have been several plan changes which will impact Iowans. Seven plans were dropped and four new plans were added. Thirteen plans show reduced premiums and thirteen plans increased theirs. Even the plans which continue from 2014 may have changed their premium, deductibles and co-payments so comparing plans is critical for everyone.
The Medicare Website, www.medicare.gov, is the ONLY place where you can find out which of the plans cover the prescription drugs you are taking and provide an estimate of your total costs for 2015.
If you need assistance or don't use a computer, trained counselors will be able to help you at the Siouxland Center for Active Generations, 313 Cook Street, Sioux City, on October 29 from 8:30 to 2:30. Please bring your red, white and blue Medicare card and a current list of your medications, including the strength and dosage with you to this event. This is a free, unbiased service and will be provided on a first-come-first-served basis. We do not sell insurance.
This event is sponsored by Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP), Connections Area Agency on Aging, Mercy Medical Center, and the Siouxland Center for Active Generations.
