Wicker Shares Medicare Drug Options For "Open Season"
WICKER SHARES MEDICARE DRUG OPTIONS FOR "OPEN SEASON"
Between now and December 31, the nation's senior citizens have an opportunity to review their Medicare prescription drug coverage. Beneficiaries wishing to make changes will find wide ranging choices and more comprehensive coverage options for 2007. On the other hand, those who are satisfied with their present coverage are not required to taken any action during this "open season" to continue in the program.
More than 38 million older Americans have enrolled in the Medicare Part D drug program since it went into effect on January 1, 2006. Surveys have consistently shown that more than 80 percent of program participants are pleased with the program and their present coverage. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services reports that Part D beneficiaries are saving an average of $1,200 per year on prescription drug costs.
COMPETITION CREATES SAVINGS
Medicare officials expect greater results in 2007 with savings available for the most common prescription drugs covering heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure, among others. They note that strong competition among drug companies during the 2007 bidding process has led to an average reduction of 10 percent in coverage costs.
Many seniors who have expressed interest in changing plans are seeking coverage to erase the "doughnut hole," which refers to a gap between the program's initial drug benefit and the level where catastrophic coverage is activated. After the program's coverage limit of $2,250 is reached, additional costs are not covered by Medicare until beneficiaries attain an out-of-pocket limit of $2,850. Mississippians will be able to choose from 25 enhanced drug plans, many of which offer benefits to address the "doughnut hole" coverage gap. Several plans also provide coverage with little or no deductibles.
PREMIUM REMAINS THE SAME
The average monthly premium beneficiaries will pay in 2007 is $24, which is about the same as the 2006 cost. The lowest plan available to Mississippians is $14.10 per month, and two more plans offer coverage for less than $20. Beneficiaries who qualify for the full Medicare subsidy will pay no premiums or deductibles.
Additional changes in the Part D program include a more comprehensive effort to help individuals through the Medicare website, toll-free telephone service, the mail, and direct contact with seniors. These enhancements will make it easier for seniors to get personalized information about their coverage options. The new features at www.medicare.gov will enable visitors to compare prices and drug coverage options more easily. Medicare records indicate four million Americans enrolled in the program on-line in 2006. Millions more got help from friends and family members who used the website or called the 1-800-MEDICARE toll free.
INDIVIDUAL ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE
Area Agencies on Aging throughout Mississippi have been involved in advising seniors about drug plan options during this "open season." Three Rivers Planning and Development District is working with area county supervisors to provide counselors for individual assistance. My district offices in Tupelo, Southaven, Columbus, and Grenada are also resources for constituents with questions about the program.
http://www.house.gov/wicker/openseason.htm