Letter to the Editor: Time for a Medicare Part D "checkup"

(Jim Sims of Decorah, a SHIIP counselor, has submitted the following Letter to the Editor):

Many people get an annual physical or check-up.  I'd like to encourage another type of check-up—a Medicare Part D check-up.  It's easy to sign-up for a drug plan and stay with it year after year.  But the State of Iowa's Senor Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) has found that doing an annual Part D check-up can save money.

Most people can change Part D plans once a year from October 15th through December 7th.  Last year SHIIP helped thousands of people compare plans during this time and found almost 80% saved money by changing plans for 2014.  Part D plans can change premiums, co-payments and drugs covered each year.  The plan that was best for you in 2014 may not be the best for 2015.
 
Now is the time for residents of Winneshiek county to do their Part D check-up.  During the open enrollment period you can choose to change your Medicare drug coverage for 2015 or enroll in a plan if you missed earlier deadlines.  We also know there are people who might be eligible to get help with their Medicare drug costs, but haven't applied for that help with Social Security.  If you're on Medicare or know someone who is, share this important information with them.

The Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) volunteers, based at Winneshiek Medical Center, are available to help anyone on Medicare with questions about the drug benefit.  They can also help compare the 34 plans offered in Iowa, assist with enrollment in a plan if requested and help apply for assistance.  To meet with a SHIIP counselor call 563-387-3036.  SHIIP's services are free, confidential and objective.

Start your check-up now.  Don't wait until the last minute to make a decision.