Start planning now for Medicare changes 

Medicare participants will soon have the opportunity to compare and select their Medicare drug coverage (Part D) for 2008. Kossuth Regional Health Center is prepared to help through our Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP). The SHIIP program offers free, unbiased assistance to people with questions related to Medicare and health insurance.

Dianna Moeller, SHIIP counselor at Kossuth Regional Health Center, recommends the following things you can do this fall to stay on top of your Medicare drug coverage.

1. Review your plan's benefits. If you are currently enrolled in a Medicare drug plan you will be receiving a packet of information in the mail before November 15. This packet will explain how your drug benefit will work in 2008.

2. Do a comparison. Make sure your current drug plan will provide the best coverage for you in 2008. It doesn't cost anything to do a comparison. You can do this on the Internet at www.medicare.gov or call SHIIP and we will do a comparison for you.

3. November 15 to December 31 you can change plans or enroll in a Medicare drug plan. You have only one opportunity to change each year, and the window is from November 15 to December 31. If you need to make a change this is the time to do it. Your new plan will go into effect on January 1, 2008. This is also the opportunity for anyone who doesn't have drug coverage to enroll in a Medicare drug plan.

4. You may be eligible for extra help with your drug costs. Maybe you haven't signed up for Part D because you think you can't afford it. If your income and resources are limited you can get extra help covering your prescription drugs. To find out if you are eligible contact Social Security or visit with a SHIIP counselor.

"Medicare drug plans can change so don't be complacent," Moeller said. "Check if your premium will change, whether your medications will still be covered and what your share of the cost for your prescriptions will be next year. Will any of your prescriptions be covered in the gap? Don't wait until the last minute to pay attention to changes you may need to make."

If you would like assistance with reviewing or enrolling in a Part D plan, Moeller is available on Wednesdays for appointments. People also have the option of enrolling on their own, or with the help of a family member, on line at www.medicare.gov.

"The first step to set up a review is to call the Senior Services office at KRHC and talk with Jan Wolf. She will make sure you have gathered the information we will need to make your appointment beneficial."

For more information or to call for an appointment to discuss Medicare Part D coverage contact the Senior Service office at 515.295.4590. Please note that this office is available on Tuesdays and Wednesdays only.