News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
With the deadline moving closer, UCDD’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program helping senior citizens with Medicare coverage decisions.
SHIP and Benefits Coordinator Stephen Kreis said SHIP Counselors are meeting seniors one-on-one to compare coverage plans to see what seniors could be missing out on. Kreis said the biggest change for Medicare this year is the out-of-pocket costs cap for Part D prescription drugs is being dropped from $3,300 to $2,000 in 2025. Kreis said this could possibly remove what is known as the donut hole which is a temporary period when a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan limits what it will cover for drugs.
“That is going to be very significant savings for them,” Kreis said. “Especially for our clients that are on several medications or if they are on a medication that can be very expensive, that along with the negotiated truck list can be fairly significant savings.”
Kreis said the significant savings is why it is more important than ever to reach out and receive assistance with your Medicare plan.
“That is why we have been encouraging more than in years past even to check with us this year to see if you are on the best option available,” Kreis said.
Kreis said Medicare and Centers for Medicare And Medicaid Services are negotiating prices for a drug list this year with most of those medications being used for diabetes. Kreis said with the current economy and it being an election year more people are reaching out to try to save as much money as possible.
“Several clients that I have been speaking with are going to be on those medications,” Kreis said. “Just trying to check in to see how they can be best prepared for the coming year but be able to get as much savings as they can because every penny counts right now.”
Kreis said they are throwing events to help senior citizens through the 14-county Upper Cumberland Region. Kreis said every event so far has been filled up. Check with your county office to find more information.
