For reprint by GWAAR Medicare Outreach Team
Do you have a Medicare Prescription Drug (Part D) plan or a Medicare Advantage with Drug coverage?
Every year, Medicare Advantage and Part D plans can change the list of prescription medications they will cover as well as the providers that they have in the network. The plans’ premiums, deductibles, co-insurance, co-pays, and out-of-pocket maximum can also change each year. That means even if you are taking the same medications and seeing the same doctors, the amount you pay for your medications and care may change in 2023!
What can people do about this?
All Medicare beneficiaries should check their coverage each year during Medicare’s annual open enrollment period which runs October 15 through December 7. This is the time of year to find out if your current plan will cost you more, or less, than other available 2023 plans. If it is no longer the best plan for your medications and providers, this is the time to make a switch to a plan that will suit you better.
Make sure you will have appropriate coverage in the new year.
You can compare plans on the official Medicare website at Medicare.gov. Medicare beneficiaries in Brown County can also receive free, unbiased assistance with plan comparisons from Benefit Specialists at ADRC of Brown County. ADRC can offer individual plan assistance through office visits, by mail and phone, or by virtual computer-based appointments. Call a Benefit Specialist today at (920) 448-4300.
Wisconsin SeniorCare Program to Cover Vaccines Provided at Pharmacies
New Benefit Will Increase Senior Access to Vaccines
Gov. Tony Evers and the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) announce Wisconsin’s SeniorCare Program has received approval from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to cover certain vaccines that members receive in pharmacies. Vaccines covered include those that protect against shingles, tetanus, meningitis, and Hepatitis A and B. These vaccines are recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) for adults aged 65 and older.
Members with other insurance that covers vaccines, such as Medicare Part D, must first utilize their primary coverage and then SeniorCare will cover any copays or deductibles when vaccines are delivered in a pharmacy. SeniorCare members with Medicare Part B coverage must use Medicare Part B coverage to get certain vaccines – those that protect against the flu, pneumonia, or COVID-19. Depending on any other coverage you have in addition to SeniorCare, you may need to get some vaccines at a pharmacy and others at your doctor’s office. Members should check their plans and work with their providers to find where they can get vaccines under their coverage.
