Medicare Costs on the Rise

The U.S. House and Senate recently passed a bill that will provide coverage for prescription drugs for many senior citizens across our country. While it is true that the Medicare Reform Bill is one of the most comprehensive reforms in the program’s history, Medicare benefits can be confusing for beneficiaries and are not an automatic benefit for seniors. Changes for 2004 include increased costs for Medicare premiums, deductibles and coinsurance amounts.

Beneficiaries, and those who are approaching retirement, may or may not be aware of some of the changes. The Seniors’ Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP), administered by the N.C. Department of Insurance, can provide the most up-to-date information regarding prescription drug benefits and choices for people with Medicare. For answers to Medicare, Medicare enrollment or any senior health insurance question, call the SHIIP toll-free consumer line at 1-800-443-9354. You may also visit www.ncshiip.com or email shiip@ncdoi.net. SHIIP regularly trains volunteers in local communities who are available for free, one-to-one counseling sessions. To reach a SHIIP counselor in your area, contact your local Cooperative Extension Center.