Part D Guidelines for 2009

 Bob Fassbach, editor, www.seniorark.com

Also see a step-by-step process for Where Do I Start with Part D?

 Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage will change in 2009. First, the deductible amount increases from $275 to $295. Then the initial coverage limit to reach the doughnut hole - the gap in which prescription costs are not covered, increases from $2510 to $2700, and the 100% out-of-your-pocket threshold also goes up from $4050 to 4535 .  (see chart below)*

Remember, these are the general Part D guidelines. Depending on the insurance provider you select, and the premium you pay, you may experience variations.

Part D enrollees may be eligible for more help if there has been a change in income status, such as from lost income, retirement or disability. The time to change plan coverage is Nov. 15 to Dec. 31.

During October all companies with Plan D coverage began sending marketing materials for 2009. Also during October, information will be sent about termination for Part D coverage in 2009 and co-payment levels for beneficiaries who continue to qualify but whose co-payment will change.

As a place to start, try this link to see if you might qualify for additional help with Part D. You may find additional help available from your state's programs. More on that in the next paragraph.

Many mailings may be difficult to understand. I know mine are. A Social Security representative suggested to me today that we should discuss our Part D plans with a state representative who is qualified to help us with our options. (My first choice) Go to the SeniorArk "Government Links" page, click your state on the map, and locate someone who can direct you to the correct person. This is very important, since they have studied the programs of the many insurers, are aware of changes in the programs, and can tell you if you qualify for additional state help with prescription cost. You don't need to be poor to qualify for this help in many states. You can also go to our SeniorArk "Medicare Tips" page where you can click on your state from a list. This will show you the Part D insurer plans that are available in your state, but you still need to find a qualified state representative to help you decide. Don't just talk with insurance company representatives about you decision. They are salespeople. You need a detached advisor who does not stand to gain financially from your decision.

As another option, the Social Security representative suggested a talk with your pharmacist. Competition between major pharmacies is intense for the Senior Part D business. As a result, many are training their pharmacists to help guide you through the maze of deciding on the program that is best for you. Many of these folks may be more informed than the state people.. But the state representatives are important, since they  may better understand whether you qualify for additional help. These folks can be very helpful, but you would still be well-advised to seek out a state or Medicare employee for advice.

 This is how Part D looks in Chart Form : 2009

See: Where Do I Start with Part D?       SeniorArk main Medicare page

If all else fails, go to Medicare.gov, or call them at:

1-800-633-4227 which is also 1-800-MEDICARE

*It might be very helpful to view Part "D" costs to you in Chart Form, comparing 2006 thru 2009