Medicare opens enrollment

During open enrollment, people on Medicare can choose one of several coverage options.

STAFF REPORT

COLUMBUS — The open enrollment period for 2009 Medicare coverage runs Saturday to Dec. 31, and coverage secured through open enrollment will begin Jan. 1, 2009.

The Ohio Department of Insurance, through its Ohio Senior Health Insurance Information Program, is urging beneficiaries to call its toll-free hot line or visit a Medicare Check-up Day event for help sorting through the many plan options, said Director Mary Jo Hudson.

Department staff will be available the first weekend of open enrollment, Saturday and Sunday at (800) 686-1578, to help Ohio beneficiaries enroll in Medicare coverage for 2009, said Hudson, who also cautioned people to be aware of predatory sales practices.

“This is the time for beneficiaries, whether they are new to Medicare or reviewing their current coverage, to select a plan that best fits their needs,” she said.

The department’s OSHIIP Medicare experts can help beneficiaries understand the different coverage options, run plan comparison reports and provide enrollment assistance. Ohioans can call OSHIIP at (800) 686-1578 for assistance and can also visit the department’s Web site at www.ohioinsurance.gov to learn when a Medicare Check-up Day will be held in their county.

Attendees to the Medicare Check-up Day events are encouraged to bring a list of their prescriptions drugs, dosages and preferred pharmacy, as well as any information on pension, Veterans Affairs or other medical care benefits they are receiving.

“I urge people to not be pressured into making quick purchase decisions,” Hudson said. “In addition, we are reminding agents that we will enforce federal marketing and state conduct requirements, including the prohibition against high-pressure tactics and selling unsuitable products.”

During open enrollment, people on Medicare can choose one of several coverage options:

UOriginal Medicare for their health coverage needs and pair it with a stand-alone Part D plan to get prescription drug coverage.

UA Medicare Advantage Plan, which provides comprehensive health benefits often including drug coverage.

UDetermine their existing coverage already meets their health insurance needs. The premium cost and covered drugs vary by plan and a late enrollment penalty will apply to certain beneficiaries.

Those who qualify for Part D financial assistance, which is secured through the Social Security Administration by calling (800) 772-1213, can get help paying their premiums, deductibles and co-payments. Many beneficiaries with limited income and assets will be automatically enrolled into a Part D plan and for financial assistance, while others with slightly higher income will need to apply, Hudson said.

alcorn@vindy.com