October 2007

Medicare Part D (Prescription Drug Open Enrollment)

 

Dear Friend,

November 15th to December 31st is an Open Enrollment period for Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Coverage. This is the time to enroll or change your Part D plan.

When selecting a Part D plan, it is important not only to consider the premium, but other out-of-pocket costs like co-insurance, deductibles and coverage through the "doughnut hole." It is also vital to be sure that your medications are on a plan's list of covered drugs, known as their formulary. Provider plans can change their formulary during the coverage year, so even if you are satisfied with your current plan, check it regularly to make sure it is continuing to cover your medications. Remember: if your medicine is not on your plan's formulary, you will not be covered for it!

Those who need help choosing the right plan can call the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) 1-800-MEDICARE. Online information, including a plan comparison tool is available through www.medicare.gov. The State of Hawaii's Sage PLUS can also assist you in choosing the best plan for you. You can call them at (808) 586-7299 on Oahu or toll free at 1-888-875-9229. Sage PLUS also has a website at http://www4.hawaii.gov/eoa/programs/sage_plus/.

Quality healthcare is an important part of the quality of life for the people of Hawaii. And for many of us, finding and maintaining the best prescription drug coverage can be a big part of that healthcare. Please take this opportunity to check your coverage, and remind a friend, parent, grandparent or neighbor of this Open Season.

 

Aloha,

Neil Abercrombie

Member of Congress