Some 1,800 seniors crowded the Tacoma Elks Lodge Monday, Oct. 24 to learn about the largest and most complex changes to Medicare in the programs 40-year history. Beginning in January, those changes will directly impact more than 100,000 residents of Pierce County.
The Medicare Rx Info Day was sponsored by Pierce County Aging and Long Term Care and a coalition of more than two dozen community partners. “The response to the Medicare Rx Info Day was overwhelming,” said Aging and Long Term Care manager Sally Nixon. “It shows just how concerned our senior population is regarding the new Medicare Prescription Drug Program.”
Senior Information and Assistance together with SHIBA – Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors – and several other community organizations are preparing to help thousands of callers regarding their prescription drug insurance options. Residents without prescription drug coverage will need to choose from among 53 different programs with monthly premiums between $7 and $65. Help with premiums and deductibles is available for low-income individuals.
In addition to the help that Senior Information and Assistance will be providing, Aging and Long Term Care is offering to conduct impartial information sessions for seniors, their families, caregivers, and community professionals. Workshops can be arranged by calling Bob Riler at 253-798-7384.
Medicare prescription drug coverage begins Jan. 1. People can sign up for the program beginning Nov. 15 and continuing through May 15. After that, penalties may apply for late enrollment.
