(Click here to download the .pdf version of these tips.)

1. When filling your prescription for the first time using your Medicare Part D plan, stop by your pharmacy several days before your prescription runs out. (Your pharmacist may ask you to come back for a second visit if your records are missing from the Medicare database.)

2. Make sure to bring your new Medicare plan card, if possible.

3. If you don't have a plan card, bring the yellow auto-enrollment letter from Medicare or other notification of your enrollment.

4. If you have no card or paperwork regarding your enrollment, be prepared to provide the name of your plan, personal identification and drug plan contact information. If you do not have this information, please call your Part D insurer's customer service office. (You may even request that the insurer fax an acknowledgment letter to your pharmacist for proof of your enrollment.)

5. Please speak to your pharmacist before refilling any prescriptions over the phone using a Part D plan. (If your records are missing from the Medicare database, it will delay you from picking up your medication promptly.)

6. Since some prescriptions are not covered under the new program, be prepared to discuss with your doctor the option of changing your prescription to one that is covered under your Part D plan. (You many also initiate an insurance appeal to receive your preferred medication.)

7. When you drop off a prescription, ask your pharmacist if it is necessary that you wait there in order to answer questions that may arise. If your records are missing, and the pharmacist cannot locate you, there will be a delay in picking up your medications.

8. Remember that your pharmacist has no control over the policies and copays set by your Part D insurer. Many Part D plans may only pay for a minimal initial supply of medication or require higher copayments.

Medicare Part D Resources

(Click here to download a .pdf version of this resource list.)

Medicare
1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227)
TTY 1-877-486-2048
Medicare Website
For questions about Medicare and assistance in choosing Part D prescription drug coverage

Medicare & You
Website
Official Medicare handbook for Medicare programs, including Part D prescription drug plans

Michigan Medicaid/Medicare Assistance Program
1-800-803-7174
Website
For questions about Medicare and assistance in choosing Part D prescription drug coverage

Social Security Administration
1-800-772-1213
TTY 1-800-325-0778
Website

AARP
1-866-227-7448
Website
For information about Medicare and other programs for seniors

Your Health Plan's Customer Service Center
For questions about your existing health coverage (i.e., whether it is as good or better coverage than Medicare Part D), call the telephone number on your identification card.

For questions about Medicare Part D, you can also contact Karen Jonas, MPA Director of Professional Practice, at (517) 377-0254 or by e-mail.