Tulsa World: Seniors get help reviewing Medicare plans

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Seniors get help reviewing Medicare plans

Cindy Loftin (left), a senior health insurance program counselor, helps Elaine Hadley, 78, with her Medicare Part D plan at LIFE Senior Services on Tuesday. SHERRY BROWN / Tulsa World

By KIM ARCHER World Staff Writer
Published: 11/28/2009 2:20 AM
Last Modified: 11/28/2009 5:26 AM

It was Elaine Hadley's second year of reviewing her Medicare Part D plan with the help of LIFE Senior Services.

Although she didn't change her plan, the retired nurse said she will continue to have the counselors there help her review her options for Medicare prescription coverage each year.

"They know what they're doing, and I just want to make sure I am on the right track," Hadley said.

With a slim window of time to review Medicare Part D plans — from now through Dec. 31 — it can be difficult and complicated, the 78-year-old Tulsan said.

"It can be so confusing for older people," she said.

This year, Oklahoma has 46 plans to choose from, said Cindy Loftin, LIFE's Senior Health Insurance Counseling Program coordinator. In early October, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Kim Holland designated LIFE Senior Services as an official SHIP office.

That means the group will be able to provide more information about all things Medicare to Tulsa-area seniors, Loftin said.

Carol Carter, LIFE spokeswoman, said things change in the course of a year, including a senior's medications, plan formularies and premiums.

"Even if they've been on a plan, they need to review," she said.

Hadley said she is fortunate that she takes only a few medications and that none is expensive. She didn't feel it necessary to change her plan this year. But as she ages, she may require more medications.

And that could change everything, as she would seek a plan that covers those particular medications, Loftin said. She said one man this year will be saving $5,000 in 2010 just by changing to a plan more amenable to his personal requirements.

"There is no one best plan," Loftin said. "It's the best plan for you."

Carter added that changing or keeping a plan is a personal decision.

For Hadley, the differences in her plan and the cheaper plans were slight.

And for folks who can't afford the typical Medicare Part D plans, more help is available. If seniors meet eligibility guidelines, they will have no or low premiums, lower co-pays and no deductible.

"It can make a huge difference," Loftin said.

Assistance available

If you need help reviewing your Medicare Part D enrollment plan, make an appointment with LIFE Senior Services’ SHIP program by calling 664- 9000, Ext. 452. Or for all of northeastern Oklahoma, call toll-free at (866) 664- 9009. In Oklahoma City or other areas statewide, call (800) 763-2828.

For additional sources, you may call Medicare directly at (800) 633-4227 or go online at tulsaworld.com/medicare.

2009 income limits

Single (including divorced and widowed individuals) — Income limit is $1,353.75 per month or $16,245 per year. The resource limit is $12,510.

Married (living with spouse) — Income limit is $1,821.25 per month or $21,855 per year. The resource limit is $25,010.

The income and resource limits will change in early 2010.

Income limits are higher for those who provide financial support for other family members, those who have earnings from work and those who live in Alaska and Hawaii.

Kim Archer 581-8315
kim.archer@tulsaworld.com By KIM ARCHER World Staff Writer

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Elusive, Owasso (11/28/2009 2:49:16 AM)

It's good to know there are services available like this for seniors. With 46 plans I can imagine how difficult it for them to decipher what is best for them.

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