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Key Dates - Enrollment Has Begun
The open enrollment period for participation in the first year of Medicare
prescription drug coverage is taking place now. This
is the time for those who are eligible for coverage to review their
options and ask questions. Participants can enroll directly with a plan,
have a personal representative enroll them or ask others for assistance.
People who become eligible for Medicare after March 2006 will have
a seven month window, starting 90 days before they become eligible for
Medicare, to sign up for Medicare prescription drug coverage without
a penalty. (Ref. 42 CFR 423.38)
December 2005
- Medicare recipients who wanted to receive prescription drug coverage
when it began on January 1, 2006, had to enroll by December 31, 2005.
- Those who receive both Medicare and Medicaid who have not chosen
their own Medicare Prescription Drug Plan were automatically enrolled
in a plan to ensure continuing coverage beginning January 1, 2006.
- Medicare recipients with current drug coverage (such as employer,
union or private drug pans) should have discussed the status of their
plan for 2006 with their plan provider and decided whether they want
to keep existing coverage or switch to another plan.
January 2006
- Medicare prescription drug coverage began January 1 for those who
enrolled in a plan by December 31, 2005.
- Medicare began to provide prescription drug coverage for people
who have both Medicare and Medicaid.
May 2006
- For some people, May 15 is the last day to enroll in a Medicare
Prescription Drug Plan without paying a penalty.
November 2006
- Each November, Medicare beneficiaries will have the option of changing
drug plans during the November 15 - December 31 annual enrollment
period. They can also change plans at any time if they enter a nursing
home or move to an area not served by their existing plan.
For more information on Medicare prescription drug coverage and enrollment
help, call toll free 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) or visit www.medicare.gov.
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