Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner

News release

Mike Kreidler
Washington Insurance Commissioner
Web page: www.insurance.wa.gov

For More Information, Contact:
Public Affairs: (360) 725-7055

09-032

11/5/2009

Many Medicare Part D plans are changing. Have questions? SHIBA HelpLine can help.

Olympia, Wash. —The annual enrollment for Medicare’s prescription drug program (Part D) runs from Nov. 15 - Dec. 31. Many plans are changing this year. If you’re new to Part D or want to change plans, Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler’s SHIBA HelpLine can help. 

“Start reviewing your options today, said Marijean Holland, SHIBA HelpLine Program Manager.  “If you’re confused or have questions, we can help. Our trained volunteers in your community can answer questions and search for plans online. We also provide help with Original Medicare and other health plans.”

If you want to enroll in a Part D plan:

  • Don’t wait until the last minute – give yourself plenty of time to select a plan.

  • Don't let anyone pressure you into buying a plan.

  • Make a list of all of the current prescription drugs you take, the doses, and how often. And then use the plan finder at www.medicare.gov to compare Part D plans.

  • If you have questions, be sure to ask before you sign up for a plan.

If you’re already enrolled in a Part D plan:

  • Be aware that your Part D plan may provide different coverage in 2010.

  • Carefully read all mail you receive from your plan. If you do not understand it, call the phone number in the letter to get clarification.

  • If you are thinking about switching plans, use the plan finder at www.medicare.gov to compare your current plan with others.

“Don’t wait to get help,” said Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler.  “Call us today at 1-800-562-6900 and ask to schedule an appointment with a SHIBA volunteer.”

More ways to get help with Part D:

For help in other languages, call:

  • Spanish, Medicare, 1-800-633-4227

  • Spanish, National Alliance for Hispanic Health, 1-866-783-2645

  • Korean, National Asian Pacific Center on Aging, 1-800-582-4259

  • Chinese, National Asian Pacific Center on Aging, 1-800-582-4218

  • Vietnamese, National Asian Pacific Center on Aging, 1-800-582-4336

  • Ask a trusted friend or relative for help


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