I’m Pretty Healthy… Why Should I Enroll in a Medicare Drug Plan?
Many people think that they do not need prescription drug coverage if they aren’t taking prescription drugs. When you first enroll in Medicare, however, you need to select a drug plan—even if you aren’t taking any prescription drug. You will likely pay a “late penalty” if you in a prescription plan later in your life—and that penalty could continue for the rest of your life. Former military personnel who receive prescriptions through the VA Hospital system are an exception to this rule.
So, I Need a Plan…How Do I Get One?
Your initial enrollment:
After you receive your red, white and blue Medicare card (where your Medicare A and B numbers clearly appear), make an appointment with a Medicare Part D counselor. Community of Care has several trained SHIC counselors. Call 701-967-8502 or 701-347-0032 to schedule your appointment during open enrollment (Oct. 15th - Dec. 7th). Call our office throughout the year to schedule an appointment as you are turning 65.
What Should You Bring To Your Appointment:
• Your medication bottles (preferred) or your prescription list from your pharmacist giving the name of the medication, the dosage and frequency of each medicine.
• Your Medicare card
• The name (and address) of your preferred pharmacy. As your preferred pharmacy if there are prescription companies with whom they will not do business.
Using just these things, your counselor will review your options for a prescription plan.
Annually, after your initial enrollment:
Each year, drug companies can change their plans. This can involve raising prices, changing what drugs each company carries, etc. It is in your best interest to review your Part D plan every year, during “Open Enrollment” (October 15 –December 7). You may contact Community of Care for an appointment - our goal is to ensure you are on the most cost-effective plan. Seniors have saved thousands of dollars simply by reviewing their plans every year. Appointments are provided by appointment only and usually take about 45 minutes to an hour. Many take far less. You can also contact the North Dakota State Insurance office at 1-888-575-6611 or your local pharmacist.
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