Medicare Part D

The largest changes to Medicare are now underway. The most talked about change relates to coverage of prescription drugs.

The new benefit works like traditional health insurance, with premiums, deductibles and co-pays. If you have Medicare Part A and/or Part B, you are eligible to join a Medicare prescription drug plan. People with low-incomes and assets may qualify for reduced or no premiums and deductibles.

All Medicare recipients have received a Medicare and You 2006 handbook. This gives details on the plans available in Tennessee. Coverage is not automatic, so you must pick a plan based on cost, drugs covered, etc. The program is voluntary; you do not have to join.

People with drug coverage through a retiree health plan, the military or a supplemental Medigap plan may have better benefits than what is offered under the new benefit.

Who to Contact for Help

Medicare-- For help and complete information on Medicare Part D, click here to visit the Medicare website. This official government website gives information about the new program as well as help in picking a particular plan. You may also call Medicare toll-free 1-800-Medicare
(1-800-633-4227).

State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) -- This statewide program provides FREE and impartial counseling and assistance to persons with questions regarding Medicare. If is funded by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Tennessee residents, call toll free
1-877-801-0044.

Updated March 28, 2008