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Most seniors will save, sooner or later, using the Medicare D plan. Even if they do not, many may be comforted by the insurance aspect of it. It is a relatively inexpensive program that will be available in case of need. Others may find that, though the plan could cost them a bit more than using mail order drugs or buying them in another country, nonetheless being able to get their prescription medication needs met locally and through a convenient pharmacy is simply worth the extra expense.
For those concerned about the complexities of Medicare Part D enrollment and provisions, help is available:
- Many popular financial magazines, such as "Money," have been providing articles explaining the new law;
- AARP also has much useful Medicare D information;
- In most locales there are many people available, through agencies dealing with the aging, civic centers, religious institutions, or pharmacies, who are trained in the new program and welcome inquiries (Be aware, though, that if the person providing counseling works for one of the plan providers, he or she may be biased in favor of signing up folks with that plan.);
- There is a useful, informative, though not terribly user-friendly, government website: Medicare;
- One may also call for answers to questions: 800-MEDICARE;
- A call to Social Security (800-772-1213) can assist in determining if one is eligible for help paying for a drug plan (premium subsidies are available if funds are tight, up to annual incomes of $14,355 for individuals or $19,245 for married persons);
- Eldercare can point to local agencies that have Medicare D volunteer counselors;
- One's physician or pharmacist may also be able to provide assistance.
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