When choosing a Medicare private drug plan, make sure to look at all the costs, not just the premiums
Mesa, AZ (PRWEB) November 20, 2014
Because Medicare is currently holding open enrollment through Dec. 7, the Arizona-based Senior Transition Guide announces that they have resources available to assist those who need advice on their Medicare plans. The organization, which provides senior living information for retirees and senior citizens and their family members on their website, is currently helping the residents in their senior communities enroll in and make changes to Medicare plans.
Since Oct. 15, seniors have had the chance to enroll in or make changes to their Medicare plans. These include switching out their current Medicare Advantage plans (or Medicare Part C) for a new Advantage plan, returning to or signing up for the original Medicare Part A and/or Part B plans, or adding or changing their Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage.
Jon Scott Williams, executive director for the Senior Transition Guide, has 27 years of experience in counseling seniors about their Medicare options. Williams says that Medicare Part D is perhaps one of the most confusing plans for seniors, and as such they require advice in order to get the most optimal level of coverage.
Williams explains that Medicare Part D plans have changed each year since they were implemented in 2005, and he spends this season each year recommending capable and knowledgeable professionals in the Medicare and Medicaid industry to his residents.
Medicare Part D is especially important for seniors in assisted living because many of them depend on some form of prescription drug each day (10-12 is normal). Williams says that these seniors need to know what their best options are in order to save money on the prescription drugs they need.
Cost is a major issue, says Williams. "It has been my experience that the best prices for Medicare Part D change every year. In most cases, the pharmacy portion of your plan can be filled at a lower cost because of how the Affordable Care Act functions."
When it comes to giving Medicare Part D advice to seniors, Williams cautions them to look all aspects of the plan.
"When choosing a Medicare private drug plan, make sure to look at all the costs, not just the premiums," Williams says. The costs for seniors throughout the year depend on which medications they use.
Williams urges seniors to review their current plans and see what other options are available in their areas. Seniors can call 800-MEDICARE or go online to http://www.medicare.gov/find-a-plan.
"Seniors can also contact us via email and we will refer them to experts in this area," Williams says.
Although the Senior Transition Guide and their facilities are based in Arizona, Williams says they are able to assist seniors in any state.
Williams says that the Senior Transition Guide is committed to helping those who live in senior communities by working with them every step of the way to understand their healthcare sign-up process. In the end, Williams comments, those in retirement communities will be much happier when they find they've saved hundreds of dollars by choosing the right Medicare Part D option.
About Senior Transition Guide
The Senior Living Home Guide is a not-for-profit organization that aims to connect people around the country with the information, tools and resources needed to know their options for senior care. They help families consider their options for this important transition period. To learn more, visit http://www.seniorlivinghomeguide.org.