United Way of Morris County Events
Past Events

New Prescription Drug Plans Reviewed
and Clarified
Friday, December 2, 2005

On Friday, December 2nd, the Caregivers Coalition of Morris County teamed up with Novartis Pharmaceuticals and United Way of Morris County to present an information-packed seminar on the new Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage program that becomes effective January 1, 2006.  The event, held at Hamilton Park, attracted almost 50 seniors, caregivers, employers, and community members.

Rebecca Perkins, president and CEO of The Perkins Partnership, a public policy consulting firm that represents the Medicare Today coalition in New  Jersey, reviewed the new program and clarified many of its complexities.  She took the audience through the Medicare website, highlighting information that recipients will need to enroll and giving tips on how to asses different plans.

The new program will change the landscape of prescription drug coverage for eligible Medicare beneficiaries.  All individuals who have Medicare Part A or Part B or who are enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans are entitled to the new Medicare prescription drug benefit.  Those choosing to enroll must do so by May 15, 2006.

To learn more about Medicare's new prescription drug coverage program:

• Call Medicare directly at 1-800-MEDICARE (1.800.633.4227).  TTY users should call 1.800.486.2048.  Assistance  is available 7 days per week, 24 hours per day.
• Visit www.medicare.gov on the web.
• The State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) has counselors available to provide free personalized help with your Medicare questions or problems.  In Morris County, call 973-829-8695 for further information on this service.
• To view information about the Medicare program developed by Novartis, please click on the links below to download each pdf:
  
  A Guide to Understanding Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage
  
  Frequently Asked Questions: A Guide to the New Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage
  
  Medicare Glossary of Key Terms