Page 12 - Fall Access 2016

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“That time of year” is almost upon us: Medicare Open Enrollment
Information and
Assistance Service
Resource specialists can quickly answer questions and access information for callers using a computerized database listing over 5,000 senior services and 2,000 providers in southeast Michigan. Call toll-free, 800-852-7795.
Hours are 8 a.m.- 5 p.m., weekdays. You can also visit www.aaa1b.org
ACCESS: Your Link to Community Resources is published by the Area Agency on Aging 1-B,
29100 Northwestern Highway, Suite 400, Southfield, MI 48034, phone: 800-852-7795,
fax: 248-948-9691. Paid advertisers are not en- dorsed by the Area Agency on Aging 1-B. Questions and comments may be directed to
Kathleen Yanik, Communications Manager, or Margaret Topous, Communications Specialist/Editor. Access is written in part by Rebecca Rabano. Design and production by Northlight Design. Printing by Pinnacle Printing & Promotions.
If you are over 64 and have been receiving Medicare benefits, you know that from October 15 through December 7 is the Coordinated Election period. By September 30, 2016, you should receive information (“Annual Notice of Change”) in the mail, and in it you will find an outline of all the changes to the 2017 program.
During this time period, those with Medicare can:
• Enroll in or switch Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plan
Medicare Advantage Plan or switch back from a Medicare Advantage Plan to original Medicare
• Switch Medicare Advantage Plans
There are usually more than 20 Medicare Part D plans offered in Michigan for coverage in the new year. The plans are sold and managed by private companies and vary in terms of monthly premiums, annual deductions, drugs covered and prescription cost to you. If you enroll in a plan, or switch to a different plan during the open enrollment period (October 15-
December 7), the new plan will take effect as of January 1, 2017.
When you receive your “Annual Notice of Change” in the mail, be sure to review it thoroughly because premiums, co-pay- ments and/or the medications covered can change from year-to-year even if you stay with the same plan. Also, if you find you have not been happy with your current plan, this is a good time to review your options and make a change to your Medicare Part D plan options.
The Medicare and Medicaid Assistance Program (MMAP) counselors from the Area Agency on Aging 1-B (AAA 1-B) will be holding Medicare Part D Assistance Days to offer help in reviewing your plan and the new ones. You can also arrange to get help from a trained MMAP coun- selor by calling 800-803-7174. A list of the Medicare Part D Assistance Days will be available on www.aaa1b.com in the early fall. Medicare Part D Assistance Days will be held throughout all six counties which the AAA 1-B serves, including Macomb, Livingston, Washtenaw, Monroe, Oakland and St. Clair.
Prepared with the information you need to make the best decision about your Medicare Part D benefits is an empowering and smart thing to do. Don’t forget, if you need help evaluating all the options, there are people to help. Just be sure not to wait till the last minute.
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