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What is Medicare Part D and how do I get help with the cost?

          Medicare Part D is a prescription drug benefit that began in January 2006. You pay a monthly premium, have a deductible every year, and Medicare pays for part of your prescriptions. If your gross annual income is less than $16,905 ($ 22,770 for a couple) and have less than $11,500 in assets ($23,000 for a couple), you may be eligible for help paying some or all of the monthly premium, the deductible, and most of the cost of the prescription.

          If you do not enroll during the annual coordinated election period (November 15-December 31) you may not have another opportunity until the following year and may pay higher prices.

STEP 1      Apply:

Check to see if you can get help with the cost of Part D prescription drug coverage by completing an Application for Help with Medicare Prescription Drug Plan Costs. Call Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 and ask them to assist you in applying for help to pay for Part D.

STEP 2      Select:

You can compare the plans that are available if you have a computer with internet access by going to www.medicare.gov. Compare Medicare Prescription Drug Plans. You will need to know what prescription drugs you are currently taking, what pharmacy you would like to use and your zip code. Also you may want to look at a plan that gives you coverage during the “donut hole”. Sage PLUS can also assist you with the process.

STEP 3      Enroll:

The Annual Coordinated Election period is November 15th – December 31st. This is your opportunity to change, add or drop the plan you currently have and enroll in a new plan that covers the drugs you are currently taking.

Questions?
Call Sage PLUS at 586-7299 (Neighbor Islands: 1-888-875-9229) You need to leave your name and phone number so that our volunteers can return your call within two working days