Hamm reminds North Dakotans that Medicare open enrollment coming up Posted on 11/7/2008
BISMARCK, N.D.-North Dakota Insurance Commissioner Adam Hamm today reminded North Dakotans that the annual open enrollment period for Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage is right around the corner: Nov. 15 to Dec. 31, 2008.
"Seniors and other beneficiaries should make the most of their Medicare coverage and review their drug plan to make sure it's the best option for 2009," Hamm said. "There are significant changes in the 2009 plans, so it's important to make sure consumers are choosing the best plan for their situation."
The Insurance Department's State Health Insurance Counseling Program (SHIC) staff is traveling to 10 cities around the state during the open enrollment period, offering free assistance in switching or enrolling in a Medicare prescription drug plan.
Eligible North Dakotans who are unable to attend an open enrollment event can call 2-1-1 to switch plans or sign up for a plan. After answering a few questions, a customized comparison list of Part D plans will be sent to callers. Once a plan is chosen, joining is easy. Beneficiaries can:
-Enroll directly with the plan by calling the plan's toll-free number -Call their insurance agent -Go to www.medicare.gov or call Medicare at 1-800-633-4227 -Call RSVP at 701-258-5436 12:30-3:30 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays -Call SHIC at 1-888-575-6611
"Beneficiaries should make sure their prescriptions are covered under the plan they choose and that the plan is accepted by their preferred pharmacy," Hamm said. Beneficiaries who are satisfied with the plans they have do not have to do anything; they will be re-enrolled automatically.
For details on the open enrollment events, call SHIC at 1-888-575-6611 or visit www.nd.gov/ndins.
