By Opal Harris
This year it is more important than ever to review your Medicare Prescription Drug plan coverage.
Medicare Prescription Drug Plans are changing significantly for 2009. The premiums for most plans have gone up, some almost doubling in cost and others going up as much as 50%. Some plans have dropped drugs from the list of drugs they cover (formulary). If a drug is not on your plans drug list you will have to pay full cost for it. Why pay more, when you can pay less. Another plan may serve you better in 2009.
Everyone with a Medicare Drug Plan are strongly urged to do a review of their coverage for 2009. Look at the plan you have to see how it will be in 2009, see if you will be paying too much or if you can save more by changing to a different plan.
The easiest way to compare plans is to make an informed choice - see your Calhoun County SHIP Counselor, Opal Harris at the Calhoun County Committee on Aging, Senior Center in Grantsville. Call Opal at 354-7822 to make an appointment.
Bring your Medicare card, a complete list of all your prescription drugs; include name of medication, dosage, (how many MG etc.) and how many you get in a refill. With this information we can look at the best plans for you. Reviewing your plan can take from 30 to 60 minutes, but it is well worth the time to save money on your medications.
Opal will explain the plans in a way that is easy to understand, so you can make a good choice.
You must review your plans before December 31. If you do not change by this time you will have to stay in the plan you have for another year.
| 
