By the GWAAR Medicare Outreach Team
Submitted by Bethany Schneider, ADRC Elder Benefit Specialist
Do you have a Medicare Prescription Drug (Part D) plan? Every year Medicare Part D plans can change the list of prescription medications they will cover. That means even if you are taking the same medications, the amount you pay for your medications may change in 2023! The plans’ premiums, deductibles, and co-pays can also change each year.
What can people do about this? All Medicare beneficiaries should check their Part D coverage each year during Medicare’s annual open enrollment period, which runs October 15 through December 7th. This is the time of year to find out if your current plan will cost you more or less than other Part D plans in 2023. If it is no longer the best plan for your medications, this is the time to make a switch to a Part D plan that will suit you better.
Make sure you will have appropriate prescription drug coverage in the new year. You can compare plans on the official Medicare website at Medicare.gov. Medicare beneficiaries in Dunn County can also receive free, unbiased assistance with plan comparisons from the Elder Benefit Specialist at the Dunn County ADRC.
Start preparing early this year. Don’t let this opportunity pass you by! Go to Medicare.gov to compare plans online or for local assistance call the Dunn County ADRC at 715-232-4006.
Assistance is also available through the following resources:
• 1-800-MEDICARE or www.medicare.gov
• Medigap helpline 1-800-242-1060
• Disability Drug Helpline 1-800-926-4862 (if under age 60)
• Wisconsin Medigap Prescription Drug Helpline 1-855-677-2783