News...
October 26, 2006

Reminder: November 15 – December 31
is the Medicare Enrollment Period

PIERRE, S.D. – Beginning November 15, 2006, Medicare will begin its annual enrollment period. The South Dakota Department of Social Services would like to remind all Medicare recipients to evaluate their current plan now before the enrollment period begins; to make sure their plan has met their needs throughout this past year.

“Prior to the enrollment period, it is important to take a look at your current plan and decide whether or not it has met your needs throughout the year and if you will need to switch plans,” said Department of Social Services’ Secretary Deb Bowman. “However, if you are satisfied with your coverage plan, you do not have to do anything during the open enrollment period.”

Please take the time to ask yourself a few important questions prior to the Medicare Enrollment Period:

  • COST: Will your premium and costs change in 2007?
  • COVERAGE: Do you need more coverage in 2007? Will the prescription drugs you take be covered by your plan in 2007?
  • CUSTOMER SERVICE: Are you satisfied with your plan’s current service?

Please keep in mind the following dates:

  • November 15, 2006: Open Enrollment Begins.
  • December 31, 2006: Open Enrollment Ends.
  • January 1, 2007: Coverage Begins.

Enroll early to make certain you get the prescriptions you will need on January 1, 2007. The Department of Social Services and Medicare are here to help you during this time. If you have questions or concerns, please contact any of the following:

  • South Dakota Department of Social Services’ Division of Adult Services and Aging
    Phone: 605-773-3656 or 1-866-854-5465
    Web: http://dss.sd.gov/medicarepartD/
  • Senior Health Information and Insurance Education (SHIINE)
    Phone: 1-800-536-8197
    Web: http://www.shiine.net/