Published: December 01, 2009 09:15 pm      

Re-evaluate

Medicare recipients need to be sure benefit plan will work for them in 2010

In recent weeks, The Register-Herald has published stories urging Medicare recipients to re-evaluate their benefit plans during open enrollment until Dec. 31.

Yes, it’s a hassle, and yes, it will take some time and a lot of careful consideration.

But that investment could save you loads of grief should you face a health crisis in 2010 and suddenly realize you don’t have as much coverage as you thought.

Your Part D drug coverage, for example, could contain changes that will have a dramatic effect on your budget. Don’t assume anything. Visit or call agencies that deal with senior concerns and schedule time to have some experts go over your plan with you.

Agencies such as the Commission on Aging and the West Virginia Aging and Disability Resource Center have employees trained to help you make a thorough evaluation of the plan you have. Although they cannot tell you which plans to choose, they can inform you about options and educate you about upcoming changes and how they will impact your coverage.

Seniors receiving Social Security benefits will not get a cost-of-living adjustment in the coming year, so it’s more important than ever to make sure your Medicare prescription plan will meet your needs.

Agents with private insurance companies also have information available and can talk with you one-on-one about your plan. Individual evaluation is the best way to ensure your coverage will be what you need.

Many factors determine which plans are best. The one your neighbor has may work fine for his or her circumstances but may fall short of a specific need you have.

It’s well worth the time and trouble to contact the agencies or your personal insurance agent to find out exactly where you stand.

Don’t be embarrassed to ask lots of questions, and don’t hesitate to ask for clarification of things you don’t understand.

You may call toll-free 1-866-987-2372 or call the Commission on Aging office nearest you to schedule time for a visit. You may also visit www.medicare.gov.

Don’t put it off. Make sure you’ve explored all your options and you have a plan that will protect you adequately regardless of what the new year may bring.