Reis: Pay close attention to details in new Medicare program

October 06, 2005

Olney…. State Representative David Reis (R-Ste. Marie) is passing important information along to seniors in the 108th Legislative District regarding Medicare’s new prescription drug benefit (Part D).  On Saturday, October 1st, private drug plan vendors began marketing their programs. “If the sales pitches seem complicated, it’s because the new program involves a dizzying array of choices, including the question of whether or not to enroll” said Reis.

Many constituents may wonder why the new care prescription program is again in the news since it was approved months ago. “The Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement and Modernization Act was approved in December 2003, but doesn’t go into effect until Jan. 1st of 2006” said Reis. “It’s Medicare Part D and you’re hearing about it now because Oct. 1st was the date that private health insurance providers were allowed to begin advertising their drug coverage programs. However, enrollment does not begin until Nov. 15th.”

Experts agree that the new prescription drug benefit is a good program for those whose out-of-pocket prescription costs now exceed $3,600 a year. The dilemma is for those who aren’t currently spending that much. “For those who may question whether or not this program is the best fit for their household, the Illinois’ Senior Health Insurance Program is one of the best sources of Medicare prescription program information for area residents.”  The Illinois office can be reached toll-free at 1-800-548-9034.

“ID theft should be a major concern for our seniors, and they should beware of overly aggressive or unscrupulous sales tactics” Reis said.  “Don’t take someone’s word for it if they claim to represent a ‘Medicare approved’ company.  Be sure to always double-check that the company is legitimate” said Reis.

“Never give out your Social Security number or checking, savings, or credit card account numbers,” Reis said. May 15, 2006 is the application deadline so there is still time to make an informed decision. Also, Rep. Reis strongly recommends keeping all new prescription plan information received in the mail for future reference.