Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Michael Leavitt and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Administrator Mark McClellan have announced a new fall Medicare awareness program to educate beneficiaries about the upcoming open enrollment period for Medicare Part D, which takes place Nov. 15-Dec. 31. The four-month campaign, called “My Health, My Medicare,” gives pharmacies an opportunity to partner with CMS to discuss benefits during annual flu shot events and other beneficiary outreach activities.
To assist beneficiaries in making decisions about Medicare benefits, the campaign is divided into four segments. In September, beneficiaries should compare their health needs with the coverage they have and prepare questions about their coverage. October is when they should evaluate benefits, using the one-page Medicare Checkup as a guide. November is the month to choose a new plan or change plans, if desired. In December, beneficiaries can maximize their benefits, working with their doctor to develop a personalized plan for prevention. CMS is urging beneficiaries who wish to change prescription drug plans to sign up before Dec. 8 to ensure they are able to have their prescriptions filled in early January. Read the overview.
