November 27th, 2011 – Medicare open enrollment’s deadline is December 7th this year. If you have a traditional Medicare Supplement (sometimes called Medigap plans, Plan F is the most popular example) that you’re happy with you may be best served keeping that plan, as most Medigap plans are not guarantee issue and require medical qualification if you leave the plan and want to come back later.
However, if you’re on a Medicare Advantage (or Medicare Part C) plan that you’re not happy with this is a good time to look at other Medicare Advantage plans.
Almost everyone that has a Medicare Part D plan should be looking at their options. There are many different Medicare Part D prescription drug plan choices offered by many different companies in the market place. Because the best plan will differ from person to person depending upon the specific medications they are taking here is a helpful resource to help you pick a plan that best meets your individual needs.
Please click on this Medicare Prescription Drug Plan Finder link to use their helpful tool that walks you step by step through the process to help you find the Part D prescription plan best for you. You can also call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).
Please save remember you’ll want to go through this same process to review the plans for Medicare Part D every year during open enrollment which is between October 15 and December 7th. Because the Part D plans and rates may change from one year to the next and the medications one is taking may also change over time, you’ll want to write this yearly chore on the calendar, so you remember to shop the Part D plans every year during open enrollment, to ensure you continue to have the plan that is the best value.
Please note that Medicare Part D is embedded in some, but not all, Medicare Advantage plans. Please contact your insurer to verify if you have Part D coverage or not.
