Medicines

January 1, 2006, Medicare began helping pay for prescription drugs for those who are on Medicaid and Medicare.

It's easy to enroll.

Every year the fall open enrollment period (OEP) is from October 15 to December 7. This period allows you to choose a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan (PDP). If you aren't happy with your current plan, you can change plans during the OEP. You can find specific plan information on the Enrolling in Medicare Part D webpage.

You decide which program is right for you.

If you are on Medicaid and become eligible for Medicare, then you have the option to pick your prescription drug plan (PDP) when enrolling. If you do not pick a PDP, you will automatically be enrolled in a Medicare prescription drug plan. If you decide you do not want to take part in the Medicare drug program, you will no longer have any drug coverage. You will not be able to keep your Medicaid drug coverage.

If you have drug coverage through a retiree plan, your spouse’s work, a union, or another program, you may be able to keep that. Contact them to find out what your options are.

You may also call the Senior Health Insurance Counseling Program at 800-763-2828 for help with choosing a drug plan.

You will have a choice of plans.

Medicare will give you a choice of at least two plans. These will be offered by private companies approved by Medicare.

You may not have to pay a monthly premium for this program.

The monthly premium will be paid for you.

Medicare is always there to answer your questions.

To learn more about any part of the Medicare prescription drug program or any Medicare topic, call Medicare at 800-633-4227 (800-MEDICARE). The phone lines are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also go to the Medicare Web site.