WDBJ7 Roanoke News and Weather NRV Lynchburg Danville | What seniors can expect for 2010 with the Medicare Prescription Drug Plans
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Shannon Abell with LOA Area Agency on Aging tells News 7 there are fewer plans for 2010 and many seniors can expect to pay more.
Seniors have until December 31st to pick a new plan, but Abell advises people to get started now.
This is Lois Sowder's first time enrolling in Medicare Part D.
She takes eight different medications, so she can't afford to pick the wrong plan.
"Very interesting. It also can be frustrating too, so many plans to pick from," said Sowder.
For 2010 there are 44 plans, the average monthly premium is 32 dollars. Only 9 plans this year cover at least some generics through the donut hole, that's the coverage gap where the person has to pay 100 percent of the drug costs.
Abell said this year the donut hole starts above $2,830 dollars until the person reaches a total of $6,440 in drug costs.
"You really need to shop around to see if you're getting the best buy," said Abell.
He also warns seniors that plans change every year so they shouldn't assume that just because a plan worked well this year it's going to be their best option for 2010.
Abell said a mistake seniors sometimes make is accidentally signing up for a Medicare Advantage plan, which also provides health insurance.
"There are agents that are selling Medicare Advantage that covers prescription medications. If you want to be just with a drug card, make sure that's what you're signing up for," said Abell.
He also advises seniors to see if the qualify for extra help.
It's estimated there are 5-thousand seniors in the Greater Roanoke Valley who quality but haven't signed up.
"People who are low income may find they can get their drug card free of charge and their medicines for as little as three to six dollars," said Abell.
For help sorting through it all contact LOA at 540-345-0451, and ask for a health insurance counselor. There is a waiting list but LOA wants to help as many seniors as possible.
