Good morning to all of you! I apologize that my blog consistency is not as good as it should be, but I'm working on it :)
As you probably already know by now, I find it very important to keep my clients informed of the good, the bad and the ugly. Unfortunately, lately it seems like there is a lot more ugly in the mix.
As we stive to focus on the good things and the blessings that we have, it is inevitable that the bad & ugly will creep in somewhere. We must prepare ourselves the best that we can for what is coming .
What is coming?
Here is what I know as of today..... Medicare part D Rx plans will be increasing their premiums & co-pays to help recoup their costs & Medicare Advantage Plans are now using AI to cut off care for seniors.
In 2025 the manufacturer price discount will appear to be a good thing for consumers. In reality this will cause the drug manufacturers and insurance companies to absorb more of the cost for the medications. For 2025 CMS has put a $2000 annual cap on your Rx costs , they will offer a payment program (aka: smooth-over) for your medications and said that they will not increase the "base" premium rate more than 6%. Now, let's read between those lines.....
Sounds like great news right?
Well, not from where I stand. I have been having numerous conversations and doing a ton of research. What it looks like to me is that your Part D premiums & other costs will surely increase, and not by just a few dollars. Take a look at the article below:
Advice: Try to do whatever you can to be able to get off of your brand name medications. Ask your doctor if you can take the generic instead of brand. Use a discount card like SingleCare, Good RX. Mark Cuban's Cost Plus program, Amazon pharmacy, Canadian pharmacies, etc...
There are many Patient Assistance programs out there to help you. If you do not know how to look for help, please call me and I will help you!
How is AI affecting Medicare Advantage Plans?
I know this information is "HEAVY". but YOU NEED TO KNOW! If you currently have a Medicare Advantage Plan and want to go back to original Medicare, you have until March 31st to make a one time change. Please note: You may have to "qualify" for a Medicare Supplement by answering health questions. Your acceptance into the new plan may NOT be guaranteed.
If this is your first time ever in a Medicare Advantage Plan and want to go back to original Medicare & a Medicare Supplement you ARE guaranteed to "qualify" for a Medicare Supplement with no health questions asked.
If you do switch form Medicare Advantage back to original Medicare & Supplement, you will need to apply for a stand alone Part D Rx plan.
I am always here if you need me!
Be blessed,
Dana
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