North Dakota Governor -- Review Your Medicare Part D Drug Plans

NEWS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 25, 2008

Contact: Don Canton or Jody Link
(701) 328-2200
Andrea Fonkert, Insurance Department
701.328.2484

GOVERNOR, HHS SECRETARY LEAVITT, INSURANCE COMMISSIONER HAMM
ENCOURAGE NORTH DAKOTANS TO COMPARE PART D PLANS
BISMARCK, N.D. - Gov. John Hoeven, Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Mike Leavitt and Insurance Commissioner Adam Hamm encouraged North Dakotans today to review and compare Medicare Part D prescription drug plans during this year’s open enrollment period. The annual open enrollment, which kicked off Nov. 15 and ends Dec. 31, gives beneficiaries the opportunity to enroll in a new Part D plan or make changes to their existing coverage for 2009 to better serve their needs.

“Every year, prescription drug and health plans change, as well as the health needs of Medicare beneficiaries,” said Hoeven. “That is why seniors are encouraged to review and compare their Medicare Part D plans during open enrollment to ensure they are receiving the best coverage for their health needs. The state has resources in place to assist them with their plan reviews and enrollment.”

“Medicare beneficiaries are encouraged to do comparison shopping to find a prescription drug plan that best meets their needs,” said Leavitt. “By using the tools provided by HHS and local partners, people with Medicare Part D can find the best plan for them during this open enrollment period.”

According to the Center for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS), some beneficiaries may see premium increases or changes if they do not choose a 2009 prescription drug plan that is best for them. Of the 48 plans available to North Dakota seniors, 27 plans have no deductible, 12 cover at least some generic drugs even after the initial coverage limit is reached and 2 have premiums under $25.

Hamm encouraged consumers to act quickly so they may have a smooth transition into the 2009 benefit year.

“Secretary Leavitt’s presence in North Dakota today emphasizes the importance of the open enrollment period,” said Hamm. “There are significant changes in the 2009 plans, so it’s important for consumers to review their options, even if they’re happy with the plan they had in 2008. I encourage beneficiaries to attend one of the department’s open enrollment events or call 211 to do a plan comparison.”

The North Dakota Insurance Department’s State Health Insurance Counseling Program (SHIC) is holding 10 open enrollment events around the state to help people with Medicare Part D make the most of their prescription drug benefits. For event details, visit www.nd.gov/ndins or call 1-888-575-6611.

Eligible North Dakotans who are unable to attend an open enrollment event can call 2-1-1 to switch plans or sign up for a plan. After answering a few questions, a customized comparison list of Part D plans will be sent to callers. Once a plan is chosen, joining is easy. Beneficiaries can:

Enroll directly with the plan by calling the plan’s toll-free number
Call their insurance agent
Go to www.medicare.gov or call Medicare at 1-800-633-4227
Call Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) at 701-258-5436 12:30–3:30 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays
Call SHIC at 1-888-575-6611

For more information on open enrollment and Medicare Part D, call SHIC at 1-888-575-6611.

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