Human Services
Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit (Medicare Part D)
Part of the Medicare Modernization Act of 2003, the Medicare prescription drug benefit (known as Medicare Part D) took effect on January 1, 2006. Every Medicare beneficiary, i.e., any person with coverage under Medicare Part A and/or Medicare Part B, needs to evaluate whether or not participating in Medicare Part D is beneficial for him or her personally.
Although participation is voluntary, unless the beneficiary has other prescription drug coverage deemed by Medicare to be as good as or better than Medicare’s prescription drug coverage (called “creditable” coverage), choosing not to enroll in Medicare Part D as soon as one is eligible will cause a potentially large increase in the monthly premium if the person decides to enroll later.
- The Annual Coordinated Election Period (AEP) is between October 15 and December 7.
- Some persons with lower incomes and limited resources will be eligible for assistance with paying the premiums and other cost-sharing amounts associated with the Medicare prescription drug benefit.
Arlington Agency on Aging staff periodically conduct public education sessions in the community and also will do presentations for community groups and other organizations, when requested.
- The Agency on Aging has developed a one-page Frequently Asked Questions (with answers) sheet to help you get started with your decision about the Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit.
- Also, there is a Cost-Sharing Sheet that shows the portion of various costs paid by the beneficiary and the part paid by the Medicare drug benefit.
CONTACT US
Arlington Agency on Aging
2100 Washington Blvd., 4th Floor
Arlington, VA 22204 | MAP
Tel: 703-228-1700
TTY: 703-228-1788
Fax:703-228-1174
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