The chances are that everyone will encounter a situation where they must deal with Medicare issues. It may be because we have an aging parent, or it could be because of a disability with ourselves or someone we care about. The fact is that there is a great chance all of us will have to deal with the government funded Medicare program in one way or another during our lives.
All of the retired people in my family have been confused and found it difficult to understand the process, deadlines and limits of their Medicare benefits. Lately the big confusion has been about the Prescription Drug Plans. The deadline is May 15, 2006 and this is the last day to join a plan offering coverage for 2006. Seniors and disabled people need to sign up soon otherwise the next enrollment opportunity is not until Nov. 15 – Dec. 31, 2006.
Everyone with Medicare, regardless of income, health status, or prescription drug usage, will have access to prescription drug coverage beginning on January 1, 2006. You can find some Basic information about Medicare prescription drug coverage at the Medicare.gov Website.
The My.Medicare.gov section is an internet portal where registered beneficiaries of Medicare benefits are able to view their current eligibility and entitlement information. Review their enrollment information and prescription drug plans, deductible and address of record information. Members are also able to order replacement Medicare cards, obtain online forms and a wide variety of other information. There is also an option for web chat assistance for any technical questions.
The Medicare.gov Website was easy for me to use, and I found the information helpful. Some of the seniors in my family are computer literate and have found the website to be a useful resource. There are a variety of sections including Preventative care, long-term care and other issues that many families face as seniors age.
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