Don’t wait until the last minute to check out 2017 Medicare drug plans

You have until December 7, 2016 to enroll in or change Medicare drug plans for 2017. Do not wait until the last minute. Remember, if you are on Medicare and don’t have drug coverage, or the coverage you have is not as good as Medicare’s, you will face a penalty for each month you delay enrolling.

If you have questions about Medicare drug coverage, call your local SHIIP counselor at Veterans Memorial Hospital at 563-568-3411. SHIIP volunteers are available to meet individually with anyone in the community who wishes to compare the Medicare Part D plans available for 2017. Appointments are required. Call Veterans Memorial Hospital at 563-568-3411 to schedule your appointment. You will need to bring your Medicare card, current Part D plan card and a list of your medications from your pharmacy. SHIIP is a free, confidential service of the State of Iowa.

You also have the option of enrolling yourself, or getting a family member to help you enroll, online at www.medicare.gov. If you choose this option, be sure to print and keep a copy of the confirmation. If you enroll with an agent, keep a copy of the signed (by you and the agent) and dated enrollment form. Should you enroll by telephone with 1-800-Medicare or a plan, request a confirmation number, the name of the person enrolling you, and note the date and time enrolled. The next opportunity to enroll or change plans for most people will be October 15-December 7 of 2017.