Migraine Medications and Medicare Part D: Important Notice

The other day, we had a question in our Q &A section about Medicare Part D drug formularies and specific medications prescribed for the person's Migraines. That question reminded me that this is the one time of the year when people with Medicare Part D coverage can review their plan and change to a different one.

If you have Medicare Part D coverage, there are some things to know and remember:

• The Part D plans can vary widely, so take care when selecting one. You're going to be stuck with it for a year before you can change it.
• There is no set formulary that all the Part D plans must follow. They can each set their own.
• Some Part D plans have a "donut hole;" others don't. Your premiums are higher for those that don't, but if you need many medications, it can be less expensive in the long run.

Each year, from November 15 to December 31, Medicare enrollees can change their Part D plans. That's NOW! There is a great deal of good information on the Medicare web site. Go to www.medicare.gov and check it out. There's even a formulary finder there for your use.

Go to the web site, get as much information as you can, and take good notes. Then, it's advisable to make an appointment at your Social Security Administration office to review all the available information and make any changes you need to make. Social Security Administration staff are trained to sit down with you, explore your options, and help you choose a Part D plan. Be sure to take a list of your medications with you so you can check the formularies for plans you consider.

This process can take some time, but it is well worth the time spent when you consider the impact this choice can have on your health in the coming year. Get all the information you can. An informed choice can make a huge difference when it comes time to fill prescriptions.

   
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migraines • headaches • health • migraine • headache and migraine