Don Gay
What are Medicare Advantage Plans?

These plans are part of the Medicare program and you will receive the same services as Original Medicare. They provide Part A, Part B and sometimes

add itional benefits (this may include dental, hearing and vision care. You

may have

to pay a monthly premium, or you may have out-of-pocket costs such as copays. Medigap or Medicare Supplement policies do not coordinate with any Medicare Advantage Plan. Not all doctors or hospitals accept all Medicare Advantage Plans. Make sure you healthcare providers will accept the plan you are considering before you buy it, or you may be stuck paying for all your charges yourself!

Insurance agents cannot come to your home without permission. If they call you to schedule an appointment, first do the following:

1. Get the agent's name, the company name, and a phone number.

2. Call back to verify the person is who he says he is.

3. Try to schedule an appointment for a time when a trusted family member or financial advisor can be with you. Someone you trust can help you make a decision in your best interest without giving in to any sales pressures from the agent.

4. If you have other health insurance, such as your employer plan through retiree coverage, check with that plan before you enroll in a Medicare Advantage Plan.

5. Do not be pressured into making quick decisions. The agent can wait for you to think this over, discuss it with someone else, and call your doctor.

6. Insurance agents can not go door-to-door to solicit business without making an appointment.

Part D - What to do if you have entered the coverage gap.

If you do enter the coverage gap, it is important to use your prescription card every time you purchase your covered medications. By doing so, you can take advantage of the plan's discounted rate, which is usually less than the retail amount you would be charged without coverage. By using your card, any money you spend on prescription drugs costs will contribute toward getting through the coverage gap.

How to lower your cost and help delay entrance into the coverage gap.

1. Consider generic drugs to lower copays and retail costs.

2. Check your plan's formulary. Ask your doctor if there are alternatives with lower costs.

3. Ask you doctor if certain prescriptions you take are no longer needed.

4. Discuss with your doctor if new prescriptions can be filled in smaller quantities until you know how you respond to the medication.

5. Stay in your pharmacy network to get the best savings.

CALL GEORGIA CARES at 800.669.8387 or 478.982.8526 for free assistance with your Medicare and Insurance needs and to report fraud and abuse. Don A. Gay, Sr., Coordinator, Georgia Cares.