With medical costs rising every day, it's more important than ever Missourians on Medicare choose the prescription-drug plan that best fits their needs.
This year, the time for making changes - including signing up for new prescription-drug plans - comes earlier for people on Medicare. The enrollment period for Medicare Part D, the federal prescription-drug program, is open through Nov. 7.
Those eligible for Medicare's prescription drug program can get free help at an event from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Nov. 8 in Jefferson City at the Goldschmidt Cancer Center, 1432 Southwest Blvd.
State officials encourage Medicare patients to review their insurance options annually.
There are a limited number of spots at this enrollment session, and reservations are encouraged. Spaces can be reserved by calling CLAIM at 1-800-390-3330.
All Medicare beneficiaries are eligible for Part D coverage, but they must enroll first.
People enrolled in Part D still pay out-of-pocket costs for their prescriptions, but there is an additional program meant to help those who have trouble doing so. Called Extra Help, this program reduces prescription-drug costs for Medicare patients who meet low-income guidelines.
Many Medicare beneficiaries do not know about the program. Thousands of eligible Missourians are missing out on help paying for their prescription drugs, according to the federal government.