It's time to think about your Medicare coverage!

As we approach Medicare's Open Enrollment Period, Oct. 15 – Dec. 7, 2019, it's time again to start thinking about your Medicare coverage. Open enrollment is when Medicare beneficiaries should review either their prescription drug coverage or Medicare Advantage plan coverage and make any changes for 2020, effective Jan. 1, 2020.

Specifically:

1.You may save money by checking your Medicare Part D (prescription drug plan) choices. Many plans change which prescriptions they cover, which means your current Part D plan may no longer be the most cost effective plan for you

2. You have the opportunity to change your Medicare Advantage Plan.

As an overview, the two ways that you can receive Medicare are either:

1. "Original Medicare" complete coverage consists of Medicare Part A, which is coverage for inpatient care; Medicare Part B, coverage for doctor visits; and Medicare Part D, prescription drug coverage. In addition, beneficiaries who receive their Medicare as "Original Medicare" may also choose Medigap, also known as, Supplemental insurance coverage which pays deductibles and the 20 percent co-insurance, not covered by Part B. A number of different Medigap plans are offered to fit different individual's healthcare-and budget-needs.

2. "Medicare Advantage Plans" which are another option from the private sector and provide coverage that combines Medicare Parts A, B, and D in one package, called Medicare Part C.

If this sounds confusing, I'm here to help answer your questions, review plans and enroll you in a plan that best meets your needs and budget. I can also see if you qualify for extra financial help available to cover Medicare costs! Simply schedule an appointment for your Medicare Open Enrollment Period consultation by calling me at (406) 541-7688.

The Seeley-Swan Resource Center is open Monday - Friday, 1 - 5 p.m. and Tuesday-Friday 9 - 11:45 a.m. I'm located at 3150 MT Highway 83N in the Seeley Lake Community Foundation building.

I look forward to seeing you soon!

The best of health to you,

Linda