Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit Enrollment
More than 25 million Medicare beneficiaries receive their prescription coverage through Medicare Part D, a figure which grew five percent as a result of open enrollment for Medicare Part D at the end of 2008.
Seniors turning 65 this year should sign up for Medicare benefits immediately upon turning 65 to ensure they receive benefits under the Part D program. When enrolling, it is important to review all options and compare alternatives so that you can select the plan that best suits your needs.
During the Medicare Part D open enrollment period, current Medicare beneficiaries and others who are eligible for Medicare have the opportunity to enroll in the Medicare Part D program for the first time or change their existing coverage. The annual enrollment period is November 15 – December 31.
Medicare Drug Benefit Stories
Senior Survey
Survey Shows Seniors Remain Highly Satisfied with Medicare Rx Drug Benefit
Four years after Medicare Part D was made available, seniors enrolled in the program continue to feel extremely positive about it. Eighty-four percent of seniors enrolled in Medicare Part D are satisfied with the program – an increase of 6 percent since the benefit began - according to a survey commissioned by Medicare Today and conducted by KRC research in March 2009
How to Enroll
Medicare "Part D" is a collection of prescription drug coverage plans. Finding the Medicare plan that best matches your needs and enrolling is simple.
To enroll call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) to speak with a Medicare counselor. When you call, make sure you have on hand:
- A list of the prescription drugs you take, including the dosage and frequency
- Your Medicare ID card
- The name and phone number of your preferred pharmacy
The Social Security Administration can also provide assistance for those who qualify for additional help. Call 1-800-772-1213 to check your status.
About Medicare Today
HLC launched the Medicare Today program in November 2004 to reach out to Medicare beneficiaries who needed reliable information on how to get the greatest value from their Medicare benefits. Medicare Today administers the partnership of over 400 national and local organizations including American Academy of Family Physicians, and National Alliance for Hispanic Health.
News and Important Dates
- November 15, 2009 - Medicare open enrollment period begins for the 2010 benefit year
- December 31, 2009 - Medicare open enrollment period ended for the 2010 benefit year
- January 1, 2010 - Changes made during open enrollment period take effect
Press Release
- June 24, 2009 - Statement by Mary R. Grealy Chairman, Medicare Today and President, Healthcare Leadership Council | Press Release
- November 12, 2009 - New National Survey Nearly Nine in 10 Seniors Satisfied with Medicare Drug Benefit | Press Release | Survey | Press Release in Spanish
- November 16, 2009 - Statement by Mary R. Grealy Chairman, Medicare Today and President, Healthcare Leadership Council | Press Release
Medicare Today E-Card
Birthday E-Card Reminder
Send your senior friends, family and neighbors turning 65 years old this year a reminder to enroll in the Medicare prescription drug benefit.
Contact
Medicare
Call: 1-800 MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227)
Visit: Medicare.gov
Medicare Today
Visit: MedicareToday@hlc.org