Timetable for Medicare Drug Plan

Here’s the timetable for the new Medicare drug benefit:

Oct. 13 _ Medicare will have all the new plans online at www.medicare.gov so people can start comparing what’s available in their area. If you don’t have Internet access, you can call 1-800-633-4227 for help, or go to a state health insurance assistance program or agency on aging office for help in person.

Nov. 15 _ First day you can sign up with a Medicare drug plan.

Jan. 1, 2006 _ First day you can use the drug coverage if you’ve enrolled by Dec. 31.

May 15, 2006 _ Last day you can enroll without paying a premium penalty unless you qualify for an exception. You must stay in the same plan for the calendar year in most cases unless you move out of a service area.

(Distributed by Scripps Howard News Service, http://www.shns.com)

© 2005 Scripps Howard News Service.

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