HHS, Mike Leavitt and Governor John Hoeven, North Dakota ND encourage older people to assess and compare plans for health insurance during open registration

HHS Secretary Mike Leavitt and North Dakota Governor John Hoeven today urged seniors to review and compare their current Medicare plans to ensure they have the best coverage. The annual open enrollment period, which kicked off on November 15 and runs through December 31, gives beneficiaries the opportunity to enroll in or make changes to their existing coverage.

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

HHS’ Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is hosting events across the country to help people with Medicare make the most of their health and prescription drug benefits. Some beneficiaries may see significant premium increases or changes — such as reduced coverage in the gap — if they do not choose a 2009 prescription drug plan that is best for them. Beneficiaries are encouraged to act quickly so they can make sure they are enrolled in the plan that best suits their needs at the most affordable price for the 2009 benefit year.

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

For in-state counseling assistance, beneficiaries can contact SHIC (State Health Insurance Counseling Program) toll-free weekdays at 1-888-575-6611.

Thanks in large part to Medicare Part D, 90 percent of Medicare beneficiaries now have prescription drug coverage. In North Dakota, 85 percent of seniors have coverage. There are 48 prescription drug plans to choose from in the state, with 26 plans offering enhanced benefits or services, 27 having $0 deductibles and two charging a premium under $25.

The engine behind Part D is choice and competition. While beneficiaries may see changes in their current plan, about 97 percent of those in a stand-alone prescription drug plan (PDP) will have access to Medicare drug and health plans in 2009 with premiums that are the same or less than what they were in 2008.

CMS is encouraging people with Medicare to review how their plans are changing and what other options are available to them so they can determine which plan best meets their needs.