Seniors will have fewer chances for drug coverage under Medicare Part D

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Senior citizens in Wisconsin will have fewer choices than a year ago for private drug coverage under Medicare Part D.

The annual sign-up period begins this week, and there are 48 plans available in the Badger State, four fewer than last year. That could raise prices.

But there could also be a larger number of folks qualifying for drug subsidies, because the income and resource limits have eased for next year.

Wisconsin’s own drug benefit, SeniorCare, will remain available at least until 2012.

The Coalition of Wisconsin Aging Groups has a toll-free hotline to help seniors choose a drug benefit.

Help-line counselor Carol Braun says people can compare different plans on the Internet at www.Medicare.gov.

She says people should not just look for the cheapest premiums, but they should look for the best coverage at the lowest price, depending on the medications they use.

Tags: medicare part d, drug coverage, wisconsin