Medicare changes for 2013

Important changes are taking place for Iowans on Medicare in 2013.

“Some of the most significant changes relate to mental health coverage,” said Kris Gross from the state of Iowa’s Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP).

People with Medicare Part B pay less out of pocket for outpatient mental health treatment now. The co-payment is now 35 percent, down from 50 percent.

Medicare Part D (prescription drug) plans are now allowed to cover benzodiazepine and barbiturate medications, such as those used to treat chronic mental disorders, as well as cancer and epilepsy. Prior to this year, Medicare did not pay for these prescription drugs.

People with Medicare Part D plans will also see a greater discount for their medications once they reach the coverage gap, or “donut hole.” In 2013 the discount has increased from 50 percent in 2012 to 52.5 percent for brand-name medicines your plan covers, and from 14 percent in 2012 to 21 percent for generic medicines. These discounts will be applied automatically at the pharmacy or by the mail-order supplier.

Those with Original Medicare will begin to see newly designed, easier-to-understand quarterly Medicare summary notices starting later this year. The language is simpler, the print is larger, and there are clear definitions right on the form. There are also step-by-step instructions to check the form’s accuracy, appeal anything that is wrong, or report potential fraud. The new forms will be phased in between February and June.

Medicare premiums and deductibles have increased slightly in 2013. The Part B premium for most people in 2013 is $104.90 per month, up $5, and the annual Part B deductible is $147, an increase of $7, compared to 2012. The Part A deductible, if you are admitted to a hospital, is $1,184, an increase of $28.

If you have questions about Medicare, over 300 SHIIP counselors around the state are available to sit down and talk with you face-to-face. SHIIP is a service of the Iowa Insurance Division and all services are free, confidential and objective. To find the SHIIP site nearest you, call toll-free (800) 351-4664 (TTY 800-735-2942), go to www.therightcalliowa.gov or e-mail shiip@iid.iowa.gov.