New York Medicare Plans
Some of the carriers we represent in the state of New York are Aetna and Mutual of Omaha.
In 2012, some New York Medicare beneficiaries will see significant changes in their plans from 2011. These changes could be alterations in premiums or coverage. For this reason, it is extremely important if you already have a Medicare insurance plan to review how this plan is changing and what other options are available that may better suit your needs. You do not need to do this alone; at MedicareSolutions.com, our Medicare specialists are more than happy to assist you in this decision.
State Assistance Programs
The New York State Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC)There are programs designed to help New York residents with the costs of prescription drugs. One of these is Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC). EPIC is a New York State program that helps seniors pay for their prescription drugs by providing supplemental coverage. More than a quarter million EPIC enrollees are saving on the cost of their medicines. EPIC is going through a period of extensive change.
According to the New York Department of Health, on January 1, 2012 the EPIC program will be free, with no fees or deductibles and will continue to be available to seniors with incomes up to $35,000 if single and $50,000 if married. Members with incomes up to $23,000 if single and $29,000 if married will continue to receive Medicare Part D drug plan premium assistance from EPIC. Those with higher incomes will pay the Medicare Part D drug plan premium each month. Starting in 2012, enrollment in a Medicare Part D plan will be mandatory and EPIC members will be responsible for their Part D deductible and co-payments until they reach the Medicare coverage gap. Once members enter the coverage gap, EPIC will provide supplemental coverage to lower out-of-pocket expenses.
When EPIC enrollees buy their prescription medications, they must show both their EPIC insurance card and private insurer’s card for Medicare Part D. While you are in the Medicare Part D drug coverage gap, EPIC will cover Medicare Part D covered drugs and Medicare Part D excluded drugs. The result of the two combined is the absolute minimum copay.
Most enrollees with Medicare Part D coverage use EPIC to lower their drug costs as well as to help pay deductibles and co-payments. Almost all prescription drugs are covered, as well as insulin and insulin syringes.
Eligibility requirements to be met include:
- You must live in New York state.
- You must be 65 or older
- You must not have full Medicaid benefits
- You must also join a Medicare Part D plan
- Your annual adjusted gross income must be less than $35,000 for individuals and less than $50,000 for married people
For more information call (800)332-3742 or visit the New York State Department of Health website.
For City-Specific Medicare plans, visit:
New York City Medicare
Buffalo Medicare
Rochester Medicare
Yonkers Medicare
Syracuse Medicare
