Enrolling in a Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage Plan

Things you can do to learn more about enrolling in a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan.

• Find out which Medicare Prescription Drug plans are offered in South Dakota by visiting Medicare's website.
• Check out the 2007 "Medicare and You" book, which is mailed out each fall. Receive a copy of this book by calling Medicare at 1-800-663-4227.
• Obtain information on the plans by calling Medicare at 1-800-633-4227.
• Call South Dakota Senior Health Information and Insurance Education (SHIINE) at 1-800-536-8197 or visit SHIINE's Website.

You may enroll in a plan starting November 15, 2006 through December 31, 2006. If you enroll by December 31, 2006, your benefits will begin on January 1, 2007. Otherwise, your benefits will begin after you enroll. If you do not enroll by the initial enrollment deadline you will be able to change plans or enroll during November 15 through December 31 of each year.

You can use the online Medicare Prescription Drug Plan Cost Estimator to get an estimate of your savings if you join a Medicare prescription drug program and costs to determine what you will pay starting in 2006 with Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage.

If you already have prescription drug coverage, you will be receiving a notice in the mail from the company providing your coverage. The company must inform you by November 15, 2006, if your coverage is equal to or better than what Medicare is offering. Keep this letter for your records and to assist you in deciding if you want to keep your current coverage or enroll in a different drug plan.