Part D plans are sold by private insurance companies. There are many different plans to choose from in Vermont. The plans charge different premiums and deductibles and cover different prescriptions. You need to compare the plans and choose one that works best for you. More information can be found at Medicare.gov.

To choose a plan, follow these steps:

• Make a list of the drugs you take, including the dosage you take and number of pills you get each time.
• Note the exact name and the correct spelling of each drug you take.
• Know the name of your pharmacy.
• Choose a plan that covers the drugs that you need to take regularly and that has the best coverage and lowest cost for you.

CVAA SHIP created a video to show you step-by-step how to use Medicare.gov to compare and pick the Medicare Part D plan that is best for you.

Need help choosing a Part D plan?

• Call the Senior HelpLine at 1-800-642-5119. The Senior HelpLine will refer you to the Vermont State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) for free counseling from an advocate.
• Call Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).
• Use Medicare’s online Plan Finder tool to enroll, compare plans, and get more information.

Can I change to a different Part D plan?

Yes. You can change your Part D plan during the open enrollment period between October 15 and December 7 each year.

If you get Medicaid, or are in a Medicare Savings Plan also known as QMB, SLMB, or QI, you can change your plan once per calendar quarter during the first nine months of the year. If you have VPharm, you can switch once per year outside the open enrollment period.

Sometimes you can enroll or change plans outside of the open enrollment period because you qualify for a special enrollment period. Examples include moving outside your Part D plan area or losing insurance coverage.

Call SHIP at 1-800-642-5119 for help changing plans. Or contact us at the Office of the Health Care Advocate. Call us at 1-800-917-7787 or fill out our Help Request Form.