Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage

Effective January 2006, Medicare offers a prescription drug benefit, with private insurance companies providing coverage.  Enrollment is voluntary but you must choose a drug plan to get coverage.  All plans meet Medicare’s basic requirements, but they may differ in terms of costs (premium, deductible, co-pay) and coverage.  Contact your local Social Security office or visit www.ssa.gov regarding assistance for people with limited income and assets.

For those already on Medicare, the initial enrollment period is November 15, 2005 through May 15, 2006. Thereafter, open enrollment will be November 15 through December 31 of each year, but you may pay a penalty for late enrollment.

For the latest information about Medicare’s prescription drug coverage, visit www.medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE (633-4227).  TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048.