Mental Health Part D News Alert

October 2, 2006

CMS recommends that beneficiaries sign up/change Plans by December 8, 2006

Online (www.medicare.gov), by phone 1-800-MEDICARE, or in person at various centers….CMS recommends patients evaluate benefits during October, choose a new Plan or change Plans in November, and use December to work with their doctor to develop a personalized plan. For a general comparison of Plans, go to the Plan Comparison feature on the improved Medicare Prescription Drug Plan Finder (www.medicare.gov) and follow the steps. The tool provides general information on monthly premiums, monthly cost for medications and general Utilization Measurement techniques. Before making a final decision always call the Plans to confirm information on this site. [For a guided review of the site, click here. PDF]

CMS is offering a new benefit for Medicare recipients on www.MyMedicare.gov. Medicare beneficiaries who register will have access to personalized information regarding their Medicare benefits and services. They will be able to view claim status (excluding Part D claims); order a duplicate Medicare Summary Notice (MSN) or replacement Medicare card; view eligibility, entitlement and preventive services information; view enrollment information, including prescription drug plans; view or modify their drug list and pharmacy information; view their address of record with Medicare and Part B deductible status; and access online forms, publications and messages sent by CMS.