Open enrollment for Medicare’s prescription drug program starts today

The annual open enrollment period for Medicare’s prescription drug plans (Part D) starts today and runs through Dec. 31. Additionally, from Jan. 1-Feb. 14, 2011, Medicare Advantage enrollees can switch to Original Medicare.

November 15, 2010 12:05 pm

The annual open enrollment period for Medicare’s prescription drug plans (Part D) starts today and runs through Dec. 31. Additionally, from Jan. 1-Feb. 14, 2011, Medicare Advantage enrollees can switch to Original Medicare.

“Many new Medicare prescription drug coverage options are available,” said Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler. “Now’s the time to review your options and make sure you have the best plan to meet your needs. Our SHIBA HelpLine program can help you understand your choices.”

The Insurance Commissioner’s SHIBA (Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors) HelpLine can help people answer questions and evaluate plans. “Our trained volunteers in your community can answer your questions and search for plans online,” said Marijean Holland, SHIBA HelpLine Program Manager. “We also offer assistance with Original Medicare and other health plans, and provide free, unbiased information to help you make your decision.”

Before you make your decision, consider the following tips:

• Get one-on-one help by calling our Insurance Consumer Hotline at 1-800-562-6900 and ask to speak with a SHIBA counselor in your area.

• Visit www.insurance.wa.gov for Medicare Part D help.

• Make a list of all of the current prescription drugs you take, the doses, and how often. Then, use the Plan Finder at www.medicare.gov to compare Part D plans.

• Review the 2011 Medicare & You handbook that Medicare mailed to clients in October.

• Call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) 24-hours a day/7 days a week.

• If you have questions, be sure to ask before you sign up for a plan.

Do you have limited income and need help paying for prescription drugs? Check out Medicare’s “Extra Help” program. To see if you qualify, contact the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 or go to www.socialsecurity.gov.

“Whatever you do, don’t wait until the end of the enrollment period to get help,” added Kreidler. “Call our Insurance Consumer Hotline today at 1-800-562-6900 and ask to schedule an appointment with a SHIBA volunteer in your area.”

For help in other languages, call:

• Spanish, Medicare, 1-800-633-4227

• Spanish, National Alliance for Hispanic Health, 1-866-783-2645

• Korean, National Asian Pacific Center on Aging, 1-800-582-4259

• Chinese, National Asian Pacific Center on Aging, 1-800-582-4218

• Vietnamese, National Asian Pacific Center on Aging, 1-800-582-4336

• Ask a trusted friend or relative for help