Medicare Part D

Medicare Part D is a prescription drug coverage policy. It covers both generic and name brand drugs. Its purpose is to help people who already have high prescription drug costs as well as help with rising prescription drug costs. There are a variety of plans available offering various costs and coverage.

Everyone eligible for Medicare Part A is automatically eligible for Medicare Part D. You must enroll in Part D three months in advance or three months after you become eligible, otherwise you will have to wait for open enrollment. Open enrollment usually takes place in the last few months of the year.

If you decide to enroll in this coverage, you will be responsible for paying monthly premiums as well as a yearly deductible. If you are considered low-income, you might be eligible for lower or no-cost plans, including Medicaid.

It is important to have prescription drug coverage even if you ton’t take a lot of prescription drugs, because as people get older, they tend to have an increased necessity for prescription drugs. It is better to be covered should the need for prescription drugs arise. Keep in mind prescription drugs are rising, and you should have a plan to offset this cost.

When can you join a Medicare Part D Plan?

Enrollment starts between October 15th, and December 7th. Anyone can join, switch, or drop a Medicare Part D Plan. The change will take effect on January 1st as long as the carrier receives your request by December 7th.

When you are first eligible for Medicare, you can join during the seven month period that begins three months before the 25th month of disability which includes your 25th month of disability and ends 3 months after your 25th month of disability. You will be able to join 3 months before and after the month you turn 65.

Special Enrollment Periods

Generally, you must stay enrolled for the calendar year. In some situations, you may be able to join, switch, or drop Medicare Part D plans. The following are examples of such situations.

• If you move out of your plan’s service area.
• If you lose creditable prescription drug coverage.
• If you live in an institution such as a nursing home.