When is Open Enrollment for Part D Medicare?

Posted: September 26, 2016, 5:37PM

Part D Open Enrollment runs from October 15 through December 7. This is the time you can enroll in Part D, change your exisiting Part D product or enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan.

You will want to review your existing drug coverage product. What was covered in 2016 may be changing for 2017. Is the plan still available in your area? Has your premium changed? Have drug prices changed? Did the plan's drug formulary change? Remember - what is good for your spouse, your best friend or your neighbor may not be the best product for you!

Some beneficiaries may want to change to a Medicare Advantage plan which covers not only health care but also prescriptions. Do all of your physicians participate in the Medicare Advantage plan you're considering? Are your hospitals in the plan's network? You want to review your medications and the plan's formulary, as well as the facilities that offer medical coverage.

You can go to the Medicare website to compare Part D products as well as Medicare Advantage plans to see what the right fit is for your needs. You will need to enter your medication information and follow the prompts to see what your options are. Go the the section entitled "Find Health and Drug Plans" on the left side of the Medicare menu.

Altenheim Resource & Referral Services will be offering two programs that will provide education on options. The first is October 13 and the second (a repeat of the October 13 program) is November 15. Call us at 304 243-0996 or email us to reserve your seat!