Medicare Enrollment Begins Nov. 15

[harvey007]

See:

www.medicare.gov

http://articles.latimes.com/2010/nov/04/news/la-heb-medicare-guide-20101104


Reminder: Fox Insurance Co. was kicked out of the Medicare system earlier this year.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/03/09/medicare-advantage-compan_n_492010.html

http://www.healthcarefinancenews.com/news/fox-insurance-begins-payment-639m-delinquent-medicare-part-d-claims

[Philly219]

1. One of my questions is:

How do they determine the "star" system on the various plans. For instance Humana's Part D shows 2 stars customer satisfaction. Medco shows 4 stars. It hasn't varied since last year. I started comparing plans and found that drugs that were not initially covered with the plan I've had the past two years (which my doctor eventually got covered for me) show not being covered on the cheaper plans. That means there's a chance I wouldn't be able to get the drug if I switched, or I would have this hassle or over again if I switched.

Wish I was well enough to travel to Canada for my medication and forget about this plan until the gap is closed. (That is, if I'm still alive by the time its closed).

[DURHAM D]

3. Did your Doctor "get it covered for you?" or

Did he/she change you to a different, perhaps generic, version of the same drug?

[Philly219]

4. got it covered

My doctor got it covered. They sent her a form that she had to fill out and I got a "letter of determination" from them that the drug was approved for a year. Then I have to go through the process again once the year is over. But, at least I know what to expect from this company. If I use a cheaper, newer plan I have no idea what to expect. The generic for this drug caused me some extreme side effects. On another drug, I am using the generic with no problems.

I'd still like to know how they get that "star rating" or if it is skewered to encourage people to use certain providers.

[DURHAM D]

2. I don't understand the Nov. 15th reference.

Medicare enrollment goes on all year round for people turning 65.

I assume this is only about changing Part D carrier.

[Philly219]

5. correct

The November 15 is for present users of Medicare D and those who want to change a medigap or medicare advantage plan.