Region VII Area Agency on Aging
Caring in Our Communities
Medicare Rx Benefit
Open enrollment for Medicare Prescription Drug Plans, Part D, is November 15 through December 31, 2006 is now closed.
All counties in the Region VII Area Agency on Aging service area have trained counselors to answer questions about Medicare and Medicaid. If you are experiencing problems with your drug plan, the very first telephone call to make is to the plan itself. Then, a call to Medicare or Social Security will often solve the issue.
Please contact:
www.medicare.gov
Medicare Hotline 800-633-4227
Social Security-800-772-1213
Medicare/Medicaid Assistance Program 800-803-7174
Region VII AAA 800-858-1637
Those who have a special enrollment period and can enroll before or after the annual enrollment period of November 15 through December 31.
Persons new to Medicare, either turning 65 or receiving disability. You may join a plan 3 months before you receive Medicare, the first month of coverage, and 3 months after. That is a 7 month window to enroll in a plan. The earliest prescription coverage can begin is the first month of Medicare health insurance.
Persons eligible for "Extra Help". "Extra Help" is available for single persons with incomes no greater than $14,700 and resources under $11,710 and for married couples with an annual income under $19,800 and resources under $23,410.
Persons whose employer or union insurance ceases either because they are retiring or because the employer is no longer offering prescription drug coverage. No penalty is added to your monthly premium in this situation.
Special enrollment periods continue for Medicare Advantage plans and those that have received notice that the annual notice of change was not sent out by the plans on a timely basis.
Coverage begins the following month after joining a plan. For example, if you join a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan in April, coverage will begin in May.
If you do not wish to enroll in a prescription plan:
v Apply for a MiRx Card with a 5% to 25% discount on prescription drugs. There is no monthly premium, no cost for the discount card, and no age limit. Each participant must be a resident of Michigan, have no other drug coverage, and have an income level at or below the state’s median income level. For one person, this amount is an annual income of $27,930 or less, for two people $37,470 or less and more for families. Call toll-free 1-866-755-6479 or download an application at www.michigan.gov/mdch or call Region VII Area Agency on Aging at 1-800-858-1637.
v Ask your physician for drug samples.
v Apply to the manufacturer of the drug for a free supply. The address and/or phone number can be found on-line, or from a pharmacist.
v Increase your chances of maintaining good health by practicing proper nutrition, get a flu shot, exercise, and wash your hands regularly. Many colleges and fitness centers offer a senior membership discount or a class designed specifically for seniors.
Counties with Prescription Drug Programs;
- Bay: 1-989-895-4100
- Clare: 1-800-952-2160
- Gladwin: 1-800-952-0056
- Gratiot: 1-989-875-5246
- Isabella: 1-800-878-0726
- Tuscola: 1-800-843-6394