Free Assistance Available For Seniors With Medicare Prescription Drug Plans

The Homestead Service Coordinator’s Office is again offering free assistance to area seniors comparing Medicare’s Prescription Drug Plans.
There are a total of 29 stand-alone drug plans available in our area, all with different premiums, deductibles and co-pays.
Beneficiaries are encouraged to compare their current coverage with available options. Even though a plan met their needs in 2013, it may not be the best choice for them in 2014.
Seniors should have recently received an Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) packet from their drug plans, and it is very important that they read and understand these notices.
Assistance is also offered for seniors having difficulty affording their medications.
The Social Security Low Income Subsidy or pharmaceutical companies’ Patient Assistance Programs may be available.
Free, unbiased, confidential information to aid beneficiaries in choosing the best plan for their circumstances is offered. Appointments may be made by calling Connie Dvorak, SHIIP counselor, at 843-2280.
The Nebraska Senior Health Insurance Information Program may also be contacted at (800) 234-7119.
The 2014 open enrollment period began October 15, and continues through December 7.