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| Rep. Adrian Smith |
Medicare Open Enrollment is going on now which means seniors have the opportunity to review and change their Medicare Part D prescription drug plans until December 7th.
It is important to note Medicare beneficiaries satisfied with their current coverage do not have to take any action during the open enrollment period. However, it is strongly recommended all Medicare enrollees review their options to ensure the plan they are in remains the best plan to meet their needs.
As with many government programs, maneuvering through all the conflicting information and red tape can be confusing and frustrating. It can be difficult for seniors to decide which plan is the best for them and their health needs. I encourage all seniors to get as much information possible in order to make the best decision for your unique health needs and budget.
You can learn about different options, check your current enrollment, and apply for a plan online by visiting http://medicare.gov . You also can call Medicare and speak to an expert directly by dialing 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).
Nebraskans can contact the Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) for more information and for help selecting the best plan for your needs. SHIIP counselors provide free, accurate, and objective information to help seniors make well informed decisions regarding their health care. You can reach Nebraska SHIIP at 1-800-234-7119 or http://www.doi.nebraska.gov/shiip .
I also invite seniors to attend my Senior Services Fair at the Grand Generation Center, 304 East 3rd Street in Grand Island on Thursday, November 14, 2013 from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. (CT). At the fair, seniors and caregivers will be able to meet with and ask questions directly to SHIIP experts. In order to find the plan which best meets their needs, attendees should bring a complete list of their prescriptions including dosing information. I also would encourage you to get information about your health care coverage options by speaking to your insurance agent.
My staff and I are always here to help answer questions and connect Nebraskans with the right resources and information. Those needing assistance with Medicare coverage, or any other federal program, can call my office anytime.
Finally, it pays to be cautious and vigilant for identity theft. Criminals may try to take advantage of the open enrollment period to gain access to personal identifying information. Never give out your personal information such as your Social Security number unless you are sure with whom you are speaking, or if you did not initiate the call or contact. Feel free to call my office to help confirm a request is real before giving away your personal information. Medicare is an important program to millions of Americans, including many in Nebraska’s Third District. During this open enrollment period, I hope seniors will utilize all of the resources available to help choose the right plan.
New Survey on the Health Care Individual Mandate
The online health care marketplaces launched on October 1st after more than three years of work and hundreds of millions of dollars spent. However, very few people so far have been able to use even some of the most basic website functions such as creating an account or shopping for health insurance.
Congress may again consider legislation to delay the individual mandate – a tax penalty for failing to purchase health insurance. Members of both parties have expressed support for this delay because of the serious website problems. However, the administration has previously refused to consider any delay in the individual mandate.
As the debate continues, I want to hear from you. Do you think Congress should delay the individual mandate? Please click here to take my new online survey . I appreciate your time and feedback.
ADRIAN SMITH
Member of Congress
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