Medicare Part D plans show some significant increases
By Margie Ware
As we enter Medicare Part D prescription drug program's fourth year, most individuals will see premium cost increases. The days of the $7.32 premium are over. Humana Standard for example, which was considered a “loss leader” in 2006, announced their premium will be $41.40 in 2009. Its companion plan, Humana Enhanced, popular for its 2008 premium of $25 with no deductible, will rise to $39.30. All in all, Berkshire County seniors, along with others who are eligible for Medicare, will have access to 47 plans – one new, four with lower premiums than in 2008, and 42 plans, which average an increase of 27%.
It’s not all bad news. United Healthcare, which raised prices significantly in 2008, has fallen a bit and offers a plan for $26.30. There are still two plans under $30 with no deductible.
With all these changes, it is especially important now for consumers to take another look at the choices they made in the past and perhaps re-evaluate their present situation:
Commonwealth’s Prescription Advantage
Most important, if you do not belong to the Commonwealth’s Prescription Advantage (PA) Plan, now may be a good time to join. Individuals with incomes under $31,200 and couples with incomes under $42,000 can join for free and reap significant benefits. Many PA members are immune to price increases. Either the Commonwealth pays their entire premium or they are responsible only for the first $20.
Check the charts
If you are in a plan with no premium, check the chart below to make sure your plan still qualifies for this benefit.
Medicare “plan finder” system
If you take six or more medications, you will always want check your plan in light of changes in formularies or other requirements such as prior authorizations or step therapy requirements. The Medicare “plan finder” system now allows us to store drug lists from year to year, making adjustments as needed, and then re-evaluate the list from year to year. It’s efficient and effective and we are happy to help you keep track of this information for future reference.
The charts will give you an idea of the new prices, deductibles and options for premium-free choices. Take time to study the situation and then call your local Council on Aging or the SHINE (Serving the Health Information Needs of Elders) program to make an appointment for a counselor to help you look at your 2009 choices. And don’t forget, take a deep breath and relax. This is our fourth year working under this system and we have a lot more experience than we did in 2006. We seek to bring you a relatively painless open-enrollment season that meets your needs and has you leaving your counseling session with confidence. If you have any questions or would like additional information, contact Elder Services at 499-0524 or 1-800-544-5242 and ask for SHINE.
Margie Ware is Elder Services’ Regional SHINE Program Coordinator.
