One of the most costly parts of a senior’s health expenses can be prescription drugs. Under Medicare Part D, a member is able to obtain covered prescriptions at a reduced cost. However, some medications can cost thousands of dollars, and while Part D plans cover a portion of the cost, the uncovered portion can place a massive financial burden on seniors.

Both the public and private sectors of Medicare have developed their own solutions to this problem. A common solution to offset high prescription drug costs is enrolling in an Enhanced Prescription Drug Plan, which covers a greater portion of prescription costs usually left to the beneficiary to pay for themselves. For beneficiaries on Medicaid, the government-funded program known as Extra Help pays for some Medicare Part D premiums, deductibles, and reduces copays and coinsurances.

Extra Help is offered automatically if:

• You are enrolled in full Medicaid coverage
• You receive financial assistance from the state to pay for your Medicare Part B premiums
• You receive SSI payments from Social Security

Those who aren’t automatically enrolled can apply for Extra Help by visiting https://secure.ssa.gov/i1020/start.

Those who receive Extra Help are automatically enrolled in a Medicare Part D drug plan (if they were not already enrolled) to capture further savings.

Are you enrolled in a Prescription Drug Plan? Are you satisfied with your coverage? Feel free to reach out if you want to explore your options!