Senior Listening

Each fall, millions of Medicare beneficiaries face an important decision that can have a significant impact on both their healthcare coverage and their wallets: reviewing their Medicare Part D prescription drug plan during the Medicare Open Enrollment Period. While many seniors are satisfied with their current coverage and assume there is no need to make changes, healthcare experts encourage beneficiaries to take a closer look every year. Medicare drug plans can change annually, and a plan that worked well this year may not be the best option next year.

One change for many Montanan’s is that Aenta/ Silverscript will no longer be offered, people on that plan must find another plan.

Annual Changes Can Affect Costs Medicare’s Open Enrollment Period, which runs from Oct. 15 through Dec. 7, provides beneficiaries with an opportunity to review and make changes to their Medicare health and prescription drug coverage. Changes made during this period generally take effect on Jan. 1 of the following year. Part D prescription drug plans can change from year to year such as monthly premiums, deductibles, copayments, pharmacy networks and drug formularies (the list of medications covered by a plan) may all be updated. The medication that was covered this year could move to a higher-cost tier next year, or it may be removed from a plan’s formulary altogether.

As healthcare needs and prescription costs evolve, beneficiaries should not assume their current plan remains the best fit. Taking the time to review coverage can potentially save hundreds of dollars annually.

Health Needs Change Over Time

A Medicare Part D review is especially important for individuals whose health has changed during the past year. New prescriptions, discontinued medications, or changes in treatment plans can significantly affect out-ofpocket costs. Even beneficiaries who take only a few medications should review their options. A different prescription drug plan may offer lower costs, better pharmacy access, or improved coverage for needed medications.

Additionally, reviewing coverage can help ensure access to preferred pharmacies and mail-order services that may offer cost savings and convenience.

Potential Savings Through Comparison Shopping Many Medicare benefi ciaries are surprised to learn how much costs can vary among plans. Comparing available options during Open Enrollment may reveal plans with lower premiums, reduced copayments, or better overall coverage for a person’s specific medications.

Experts recommend using Medicare’s online Plan Finder tool or consulting with a State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) counselor to compare plans based on current prescriptions and healthcare needs.

Avoiding Coverage Surprises Failing to review a Part D plan can lead to unexpected costs in the new year. Beneficiaries may discover too late that a favorite pharmacy is no longer in-network or that a medication now requires prior authorization or carries a higher copayment.

By conducting an annual review during Open Enrollment, individuals can make informed decisions and avoid disruptions in care.

Take Action This Fall

As Open Enrollment approaches, Medicare ben- eficiaries should gather a list of current medications, review their Annual Notice of Change from their prescription drug plan, and compare available coverage options.

An annual Medicare Part D enrollment review is more than a routine paperwork exercise it’s an opportunity to ensure prescription drug coverage continues to meet personal healthcare needs while managing costs.

To set up an appointment with a State of Montana trained SHIP counselor call 1-800-551-3191.