Even with Medicare Part D or equivalent healthcare coverage, affording critical prescription drugs can strain a budget — especially for people with low or fixed incomes. Fortunately, many pharmaceutical companies and nonprofits offer Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs) that supplement or fully cover the costs.* For example, Bristol Myers Squibb Patient Assistance Foundation (bmspaf.org) provides certain […]
LIKE AN APPLE A DAY
Medicare’s Covered Preventative & Screening Services Medicare Part B isn’t just for covering treatment when you are experiencing symptoms or ill. Your Medicare insurance also helps you to be proactive about your health by supporting a range of diagnostic and preventative services. As we move toward year-end have you… Scheduled your annual wellness visit/yearly checkup? […]
Traditional Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage
When the time comes to enroll in Medicare, you face the fundamental question: Original Medicare or Medicare Advantage? If you are new to the topic or need a refresher, Original Medicare is federally run and includes Part A (Hospitalization), Part B (Medical Insurance) and Part D (Drug Plan). Medicare Advantage is private insurance that is […]
Looking Ahead: Updates to 2024 Medicare Advantage Program and Part D Payment Policies
In an effort to ensure that Medicare Advantage and Part D drug programs remain strong, fair and viable, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has ruled on commonsense updates for next year. Some abbreviated highlights: Medicare Advantage Guidelines are clarified to ensure equal access to medically necessary care as with Traditional Medicare. When […]
Inflation Reduction Act: Key Dates for Medication Price Reductions
Provisions of the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 will favorably impact prescription drug prices and other healthcare costs for Medicare participants. While it will take several years to realize the full benefit of the law (including the $2,000 cap on total out-of-pocket drug costs in 2025) there are a number of immediate changes in 2023 […]