Estate Planning

By Steve Worrall, Marietta Elder Law Attorney

If you watch television at all, you can?t miss the increase in ads for Medicare prescription drug coverage. 

What you might not know is that the open enrollment period for this coverage expires December 31^st. 

If you (or your parents) are eligible for Medicare, you need to take advantage of this coverage now or you?ll pay more for it later. 

Space does not allow us to break the whole plan down for you, but here?s some information to help you sort out your options. 

What Is The Medicare Prescription Drug Plan?

Medicare Part D allows people covered by Medicare to buy additional insurance coverage to help them pay for their prescription medications.  Medicare works with various insurance companies to provide this benefit and it?s available to everyone with Medicare regardless of income, your medical conditions or how much your prescriptions cost.

Where To Go For Additional Information

As with most government programs, the Medicare Prescription Drug Plan can be confusing.  The following resources are available to help you sort out the best plan for your needs:

www.medicare.gov ? This is the official site for people covered by Medicare.

Medicare & You ? This is a brochure containing information about various prescription drug plans, how to compare the plans and how to apply for extra assistance.

www.medicare.gov/MPDPF/Home.asp - This is an online tool that helps you compare various plans side by side to decide which plan will work best for you.

www.yourpharmacybenefit.org ? This website was created to help people make the best use of their prescription benefits.

www.mymedicarematters.org - This provides basic information on Medicare and what it covers so you can decide what, if any, additional coverage you need.

www.benefitscheckup.org ? This website is provided by the National Council on Aging and gives information on any changes to the eligibility requirements and what Medicare actually provides.  You may be eligible for benefits you aren?t even aware of. 

All of these resources are available, free of charge, on the internet.  If you have any additional questions, contact Medicare directly at 1-800-Medicare to speak with someone who can help you, one on one.