There are two types of Medicare plans that provide insurance coverage for prescription drugs. There will be prescription drug coverage that is a part of Medicare Advantage Plans and other Medicare Health Plans. You would get all of your Medicare health care through these plans. There will also be Medicare prescription drug coverage that adds coverage to the Original Medicare Plan, and some Medicare Cost Plans and Medicare Private Fee-for-Service Plans. These plans will be offered by insurance companies and other private companies approved by Medicare.

Like other insurance, if you join a plan offering Medicare drug coverage there is a monthly premium. If you have limited income and resources, you may get extra help to cover prescription drugs for little or no cost. The amount of the monthly premium is not affected by your health status or how many prescriptions you need. You will also pay a share of the cost of your prescriptions. All drug plans will have to provide coverage at least as good as the standard coverage, which Medicare has set. However, some plans might also offer more coverage and additional drugs for a higher monthly premium.

If you have limited income and resources, you may be able to get help with drug plan costs.

Starting November 15, 2005, you can enroll in three ways:

1. Enroll online on this web site.
2. Call the plan directly.
3. Call 1-800-MEDICARE and Medicare will help you enroll.

If you have other types of health or prescription coverage, for instance, from an employer or union, TRICARE , the Department of Veteran’s Affairs, a special program, or a Medigap policy, read all the materials you get from your insurer or plan provider. Talk to your benefits administrator, insurer, or plan provider before you make any changes to your current coverage.

1. It is available to all people with Medicare.
2. Almost 1 in 3 people will qualify for extra help paying for their drug costs.
3. It protects you against ever having very high drug expenses.
4. It pays for brand name and generic drugs.