At the ADRC we have two Benefits Specialists on staff. Our Benefits Specialists are available to disabled persons ages 18 to 59, and those over the age of 60 to appeal Social Security decisions and navigate the complex systems of public and private health insurance.
There are numerous programs such as Medicaid Purchase Plan (MAPP), Medicare Part A, B, D and Senior Care that can be overwhelming and our Benefits Specialists are available by appointment to assist in these matters. If you require this type of assistance please visit our contact page. If you are unsure if this is the person that can potentially assist you, our Information and Assistance Specialists will be able to connect you with the appropriate resource.
Medicare Advantage Plan open enrollment is from 01/01/2009 to 03/31/2009
If you need assistance with selecting a Medicare Advantage Plan please contact:
1-800-242-1060 Medigap Helpline
Updates and News from Our Benefits Specialists - Interesting Updates for 2009!
The Medicare Part A (Hospital) deductible will increase from $1,024 to $1,068 for days 1 to 60. This is the deductible that you pay when you are admitted into the hospital.
The Medicare Part B (Medical) premium will remain $96.40. This is the monthly premium that you pay for Medicare Part B medical insurance.
The Medicare Part B (Medical) deductible will remain $135. This is the amount that you owe out of pocket, before your Medicare Part B begins to cover medical bills.
Help with Your Medicare Drug Plan?
Fall is fast approaching, which reminds us that we need to think about the changes to our Medicare Part D drug benefit for the upcoming year. The Annual Enrollment Period or AEP is from November 15th through December 31, 2009. Changes to your Medicare Part D plans, must be done during this time, except under limited circumstances.
It is important to reanalyze your coverage as plans change every year in the details of premiums, co-payments, and the formularies – which are the drugs the plan covers. With over 50 plans in Wisconsin to choose from it can be a challenge, but most of the time you can save on average between $200 and $800 a year by:
1. Considering the deductibles and co-payments in the total annual cost of a plan before making your final selection.
2. Knowing if the plan’s formulary will cover all or most of the drugs you take.
3. Knowing if the plan covers generics if you get to the coverage gap, also known as the “donut hole.”
There is help available. You can use the online drug plan comparison tools at
www.medicare.gov, or you can find people who will help you use this tool and answer questions. Be cautious if you attend public programs about Part D Plans and check out who is sponsoring the information before attending.
Medigap Helpline
1-800-242-1060
The Medigap helpline is provided by the State of Wisconsin Board on Aging and Long-Term Care at no cost to you. There is no connection with any insurance company. The program is funded by the federal government Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and the Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance.
Prescription Drug Helpline
1-866-456-8211
The Prescription Drug Helpline is a service operated by the Coalition of Wisconsin Aging Groups. Helpline counselors are available to provide assistance to Wisconsin Medicare beneficiaries and their families (including those who are under age 65 and receive Medicare coverage due to a disability) regarding prescription drug benefits.
Disability Drug Benefit Helpline
1-800-926-4862
Disability Rights Wisconsin (DRW) operates a statewide helpline to help people with disabilities and their families or guardians with the complicated Medicare prescription drug benefit, often referred to as “Medicare Part D.”
Your Pharmacy. Many local pharmacies will assist their consumers with plan selection. Check with the one you use.
Benefit Specialists. Your county benefit specialist is also available to answer questions and assist with your Medicare D Plan selection.Call 262-638-6800 or 1-866-219-1043 Toll Free.
Medicare Workshop
Thursday, October 22nd
9:30-11:30
Siena Center
5635 Erie St., Racine WI
(RacineCounty Residents Only)
Seating is limited and available to those who make a reservation.
Please call (262) 639-4100 Ext. 1299