Medicare enrollment includes insulin savings

Medicare open enrollment continues through Dec. 7. People who already have Medicare can make changes during this time, such as switching prescription drug plans, changing to a new Medicare Advantage plan, going from Original Medicare to an Advantage plan or vice versa.

For those not sure what their options are or who need help figuring out the best plan, free, unbiased information and assistance is available from the New Mexico State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP).

Marlene Houdek said the open enrollment process can be difficult to navigate without assistance.

“Open enrollment is always a difficult time for me as I feel pressured to make an important decision that will affect me for the entire year,” Houdek said. “As a senior, my ailments are continuously changing along with my medications. Generic, Brand, Tier 1, Tier 2, copay, deductibles, donut holes and annual premiums all are intimidating aspects of making a decision. My SHIP Representative helped me to sort out all these factors so I could determine the best plan for me. She was patient, detail oriented and knew her stuff about the ins and outs of selecting the best plan for my situation with a non-biased approach.”

For 2021, some Medicare prescription drug plans are offering special insulin savings. With one of these plans, costs for certain insulin drugs is capped at $35 per month. A SHIP counselor can help identify and provide details for these plans.

SHIP counselors will also screen New Mexicans for programs that help with Medicare Part B premiums and drug costs. Anyone interested in finding out how to lower their Medicare costs and find the best plan for their situation can get free, unbiased assistance by calling 800-432-2080.

Dec. 7, 2020 is the last day to make changes for 2021 Medicare coverage.