E-Newsletter: Good News for Medicare

Statement

Dear Friend,

Good News for Medicare

Medicare recently announced that there will be no increases in the Medicare Part B premium or deductible next year. The Part B premium will remain $104.90 per month and the annual Part B deductible will remain at $147. One of the reasons for this are the changes in the new health law to reduce fraud and abuse, to promote prevention through a new annual wellness exam and the elimination of cost-sharing for services like cancer and diabetes screenings, and to improve efficiency.

The new health law also is reducing prescription drug costs by closing the Part D "donut hole" coverage gap. Already, more than 7.1 million seniors and people with disabilities have saved over $8 billion as a result.

Medicare Open Enrollment

The Medicare open enrollment period lasts until December 7th. If you or someone you know is enrolled in Medicare Part D plan, this is your opportunity to review your options and make sure that you are in the plan that best meets your needs. Part D plans can change from year to year, so it is important to take time to look at premiums, cost-sharing requirements and which drugs are covered. For more information on changing your plan and open enrollment click here.

Remember: Medicare open enrollment is completely separate from Obamacare. The enrollment process for Medicare Part D, Medicare Advantage and Medicare supplemental plans are unaffected by the new law. If you want information about Medicare, go to www.medicare.gov or call 1-800-633-4227 (TTY/TDD: 1-877-486-2048). And please don't hesitate to call my office if you have questions or need help.

Veterans Day

On November 11th we celebrate Veterans Day. We honor the service and sacrifice our brave men and women in uniform have given to our country. On this day, we remember we have an obligation to veterans to ensure they have access to the benefits they've earned and the services that they need when returning home. All veterans must have access to quality and affordable medical care, including mental health services. I join all Americans in commemorating our veterans on this day.

American Diabetes Month

The month of November is American Diabetes Month to raise awareness of the almost 26 million children and adults living with diabetes. This is a time to come together and raise awareness about diabetes in our community and help stop this growing disease. And now because of Obamacare a child or adult living with diabetes is no longer a preexisting condition and have access to health coverage.

Sincerely,

Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky
Member of Congress

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