The Basics
Medicare is the government program that provides health care benefits primarily to people age 65 or over. It also covers those who are disabled and receiving Social Security, as well as those with certain medical conditions.
Every year, open enrollment is held from November 15 to December 31. This is the time when you have the opportunity to
- enroll in a NRECA Part D plan for the first time
- change plans if you choose
- drop your NRECA Part D plan and switch to a plan from another provider.
If you're already enrolled in a Part D Plan
If you already are enrolled in a Medicare Part D Plan and you decide to stay with your current plan, you don't have to re-enroll. However, you should check the formulary (list of drugs) for your current plan to see if your prescription drugs are still covered for the next year.
If your prescription drugs are no longer covered on your formulary, you may
- ask for a formulary exception for the prescription drugs you currently are taking
- talk to your doctor about other medications that are listed on the formulary.
All generic drugs are covered even if they are not listed on your formulary, except those drugs that are excluded by Medicare.
When your plan is effective and when you can change it
If you enroll in or change your Part D plan during open enrollment, your coverage in the new plan becomes effective on January 1 of the following year.
After December 31, you will not be able to change your plan until the open enrollment period the next year – unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. To find out if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period, contact us.