Reprinted from the Health District's quarterly publication mailed to district residents (Winter 2005)

Still not sure about your options for the Medicare Prescription Drug Plan?

It’s not too late to ask for help. Staff members at the Aspen Club (495-8558) and the Health District’s Prescription Assistance program (472-0444) are available to assist senior citizens in answering questions and sorting through which drug plans best suit their needs.

Medicare has begun accepting applications for the new prescription drug plan. Deadline for applications is May 15, 2006, but coverage begins sooner for those who apply earlier. Penalties apply for people who are eligible but choose to enroll after the May 15 deadline.

Colorado residents have about three dozen drug plans to choose from. Plans differ in the medications they will cover and their costs, both in yearly deductibles and co-pays per prescription. An interactive online tool lets you enter your medications and see which drug plans meet your needs. You can then compare plans by coverage and cost.

If you don’t have computer access or need individual help, you can make a list of the medications you take and ask for assistance through the Aspen Club or the Health District.

Here is a checklist of some questions you will need to answer in comparing drug plans:

• What medications do you take? Prepare a list. Each plan has a formulary, or list of prescription drugs they will cover.

• What pharmacy do you use? Plans specify which pharmacies they will use.

• What will be your cost per prescription? (also called a co-pay)

• What is the plan’s annual cost? (includes deductible, premium and co-pays)