Senior News Line: Medicare open enrollment

The next open enrollment for Medicare will start on Nov. 15 and run through the end of December. Sign up by Dec. 8, whether for the first time or to make a change in drug plans, so there’s time for the paperwork to be processed for coverage to begin in January.

Here are some questions (and answers) that frequently come up regarding Medicare.

Q: If you’re going to switch to a different drug plan, how do you stop the automatic premium deduction?

A: The new plan will automatically stop the deduction from the old plan. However, it could take one to two months before the old premium isn’t being withheld, and you’ll receive a refund.

Q: If you have a low income, can you get any help paying the drug premiums?

A: Yes. Make sure you apply for the help, though, and that the drug plan knows you qualify. Call the Social Security Administration (1-800-772-1213) for more information.

Q: Is there any assistance available to help pick out a drug plan?

A: Yes. Each state has a State Health Insurance Assistance Program to help sort out your options.

Q: Do all plans cover the same drugs?

A: No. That’s why it’s most important to pick your plan with care. Ask your doctor to review the drug list of plans you’re considering. There might be “formulary” drugs that would cost you less.

Q: Do you have to join a drug plan?

A: No, but if you later decide that you want to, you’ll pay a 1 percent per-month penalty for every month after the enrollment that you failed to sign up, and you’ll have to wait until next November. You’ll pay that penalty for as long as you have a Medicare drug plan.

To get help for other Medicare questions, call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).