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New Medicare drug plan extended to NMI
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Posted on Nov 01 2005
The new prescription drug plan that people may have heard about is going to include Medicare recipients in the CNMI, according to Washington Representative Pete A. Tenorio.
“I have received clear word from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services that this program is being implemented in the CNMI, and that Medicare recipients here are going to be treated like those anywhere else in the U.S.,” he said in a statement issued yesterday. “If you are on Medicare, you are eligible for the new prescription drug coverage regardless of income level and resources, pre-existing conditions, or current prescription expenses.”
Medicare prescription drug coverage will make it easier to pay for prescription drugs by covering both brand name and generic drugs. Qualified individuals will be able to save about 50 percent, and those with limited resources will save much more. Coverage begins Jan. 1, 2006.
Medicare prescription drug coverage is insurance from private companies. Qualified individuals will have to pay a monthly premium, but Medicare helps pay the bill. For the CNMI, the company is AARP Medicare Rx by United Health Care. The monthly premium will be $29.55 with no deductible.
“You do not have to be a member of AARP to sign up for this coverage,” said Tenorio. “You will be able to sign up beginning Nov. 15, 2005 through May 15, 2006. You must join to get coverage. If you do not sign up by May 15, you will probably have to pay a penalty if you sign up later.”
To learn more about the new Medicare prescription drug coverage call 1-800-MEDICARE or visit www.medicare.gov.
“At this time, there are no Medicare personnel in the CNMI, but I have requested that CMS provide special assistance in the CNMI during this sign up period. As soon as this is arranged, I will let you know,” said Tenorio.
Medicaid recipients will also be receiving assistance with prescription drugs, and this is handled through the CNMI Medicaid Office on Capitol Hill.
