 |
|
  |
|
 |
 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
     |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
What's New? The Latest Medicare News From SHINE 10/14/2005 - Changes are coming!! EVERYONE NOW ON MEDICARE WILL BE AFFECTED BY THESE NEW CHANGES!!! The Medicare and You 2006 handbook is being mailed to all Medicare beneficiaries and contains important information about the changes that are coming. One big change is that as of 1/1/2006 the Medicare Part B deductible will be $124 annually from $110 and the Medicare Part B premium will be $88.50 from $78.20 monthly. The Medicare handbook will include information about the Medicare Prescription Drug Plans that will go into effect 1/1/2006. Some things to consider in the upcoming weeks: " All current members of Prescription Advantage must choose a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan to continue their prescription coverage. Prescription Advantage will be sending out a mailing to all of their members very soon to explain the details of the changes to their program. " All Health Insurance carriers and Retiree plans will be sending letters to their members within the next few weeks outlining any changes they are making with regard to Medicare Prescription Drug coverage. The new rates that will be effective January 1, 2006 will be included in these letters. " Keep a list of all current medications, including over-the-counter and herbal remedies. " Please keep a copy of all the information that is sent to you and try to read it. There will be educational forums in your area to help members understand what changes their health plans are making. We encourage everyone to try to attend these meetings. " Always protect your private information. Do not give out credit card or bank information over the phone. If you are speaking with someone on the phone have them send your information in writing so you can read everything over before signing up for something you may not want. SHINE counselors will be available to help with any questions with all these new changes. To reach a SHINE counselor call your local senior center or call (800) 243-4636 and you will be connected with someone who can help you. The SHINE Program will be having a training session this spring. Please let us know if you are interested in learning more about Health Insurance benefits to help yourself and others by becoming a certified SHINE counselor. Back to What's New?
|
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
