2012 Medicare Handbook, Drug Plan Changes Due to You by Late September
CMS says new open enrollment period, October 15-December 7, marks important change
Sept. 15, 2011 - This year marks an important change
in Medicares annual open enrollment, the time period during which people can choose to change plans or shift from Medicare Advantage to
Traditional Medicare, according to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Open Enrollment starts earlier October 15, 2011 and
lasts longer to give beneficiaries enough time to review and make changes to their coverage.
As a result, however, beneficiaries will need to make their elections for next years Medicare coverage by December 7,
2011 rather than the usual December 31. Although, the open enrollment period is actually longer this year - 7 full weeks.
CMS is encouraging beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare Advantage and Medicare Prescription Drug plans to review their
current health and drug plan coverage for any changes their plans may be making for 2012, before the annual open enrollment period begins on
October 15.
Beneficiaries should receive their 2012 Medicare & You handbook as well as a notice from their current plan that
describes any changes from 2011 to 2012 by late September.
The new open enrollment period will better ensure that individuals have their membership cards in hand and receive
uninterrupted health care coverage on January 1, 2012, according to CMS.
Medicare open enrollment is coming early this year, and as people with Medicare make their health and prescription drug
coverage choices, they will see that weve strengthened consumer protections and improved plan choices, said CMS Administrator Donald
Berwick, M.D.
Due to the Affordable Care Act, Medicare Advantage and prescription drug benefits are stronger than ever, and
beneficiaries will continue to have access to a range of affordable products.
Seniors will enjoy more free benefits and cheaper prescription drugs; open enrollment earlier Oct. 15 Dec. 7