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As many of you may know by now, enrolling in Medicare can be incredibly complex, not to mention downright confusing. You’d think that given the fact that Medicare is a program designed to help people, it would have been developed using some common sense. This is especially true when we consider Medicare Part D, which may have been designed using the least amount of common sense of all. One of the main reasons Part D can be so confusing is the difficulty in choosing the right plan. Every plan involves different premiums, deductibles, and formularies. And the list of covered drugs and formularies under each plan can change every year. In 2024, beneficiaries will have close to 21 plans with Part D drug coverage to choose from. There’s also the notorious coverage gap, also known as the “donut hole.” This is the phase of Part D coverage that occurs after the initial coverage period when your total drug costs (including what you and your 2024’S CONFLICTING CHANGES AND WHAT THEY MEAN FOR YOU The Medicare Part D Puzzle MEDICAREBLUEPRINT.COM Health Matters
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plan have paid so far) reach a certain limit. In 2024, this limit is $5,030.
these cheaper plans include drugs that are in relatively high demand. So, the question begs to be asked: What exactly are they making cheaper? Where is that money coming from? Especially when 2024 also brings a new cap for Part D enrollees who only take brand-name drugs of about $3,250. If you feel confused just by reading all of that, don’t worry. As we said, Medicare Part D just doesn’t make common sense, and a lot of the 2024 changes seem to contradict themselves. You’d think that if they wanted to make changes, they’d want to simplify things rather than complicate them. Unfortunately, you’d be wrong. There is hope, however. We will say that while the 2024 changes seem anything but simple, what we’ve seen announced for 2025 is hopeful. Once we learn more about these changes, we’ll be sure to share them with you. So, in the meantime, we’re here to help you through all of these changes. In a system that lacks logic, the only thing that makes sense is working with an advisor with whom you have a relationship, an advisor who understands your unique circumstances and needs. As always, if you ever have any questions regarding your plan or how these new changes may affect you, you can call your advisor at (888) 335-9498 .
When an individual is in the donut hole, they’re responsible for 25% of their drug costs. So, for example, while they may have paid a $20 copay for their $100 drug before, they’d now pay $25. Now, on this scale, 25% doesn’t seem that bad. But for many of our clients, it’s not abnormal to see their drug costs totaling close to $3,000 a month — 25% of that is $750. Traditionally, the way out of this donut hole is through catastrophic coverage, which beneficiaries enter once they reach $8,000 in out-of-pocket costs in 2024. After that threshold is reached, there will be no out-of-pocket costs, and starting in 2024, beneficiaries will no longer be required to pay 5% coinsurance once they qualify for catastrophic coverage. Now, this may sound like it makes sense, but the unfortunate truth is until that point, enrollees will face much higher cost sharing for brand-name drugs than for generics in 2024, including coinsurance for non-preferred drugs. So, in reality, that 5% cost-sharing from the catastrophic plans is likely being redistributed across other enrollees. But at the same time, average monthly premiums for some of these plans are as low as cents on the dollar. Overall, premiums seem to have risen across the board, but what doesn’t make sense is that some formularies under
—Jason Mackey & Tim Hanbury
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If you’ve met with any of our advisors or have even been reading this newsletter long enough, you’ve heard us talk about how important it is to create your MyMedicare.gov account. Before we jump into why, if you haven’t yet, visit Medicare.gov, click the “Log in/Create an account” link at the top-right of the page, and then press the “Create an account” link underneath the “Log in” heading. Follow the instructions from there to create your account. Now, if you’re wondering why it’s so important to create a MyMedicare.gov account, there are four key reasons we always share. NO. 1: YOU CAN USE THE BLUE BUTTON FEATURE. The Blue Button feature is one of the most popular features on the MyMedicare.gov account and is a quick and secure way to download and share your personal health information, including your Part A, Part B, and Part D claims. You can then print these reports and bring them with you to your next medical appointment, email them to a health care provider, or input that report into any health management tool you may be using. NO. 2: YOU CAN CHECK YOUR MEDICARE STATUS. After enrolling, you can go onto your MyMedicare.gov account to view and track your coverage status. By checking your Medicare status, you can also see coverage dates, plan details, and drug costs, and print a temporary prescription drug card until yours arrives. NO. 3: YOU CAN CHECK YOUR MEDICARE CLAIMS. You no longer have to wait for your Medicare claim statuses to arrive in the mail! You can now gain instant access to your Medicare claim information and monitor their statuses as soon as they’re processed. You’ll also have the capability to search claims by claim number or type and date range. NO. 4: YOU CAN ACCESS SUMMARY NOTICES, AKA YOUR EXPLANATION OF BENEFITS. On MyMedicare.gov, you’ll also see you have access to something called your “summary notices.” Many people ignore these because they aren’t sure what they are, but they’re actually your explanation of benefits and are incredibly important. On top of these four points, you can also manage your personal health information and Medicare prescription drug coverage, and monitor your Part B deductible! By creating this free online account, you can have more freedom, flexibility, and control of your Medicare experience. INSTANT ACCESS, TOTAL CONTROL Why MyMedicare.gov Is a Must- Have for Every Medicare Beneficiary
“Tim provides timely action with a consistently great attitude. You, obviously, enjoy your work.” –Jack Frasher “As always, you are on top of your game. No hassle, you just get it done to my satisfaction.” –Michael Lane Sr. “Answers all questions asked. Explains so you can understand what you need to do.” –Billy Lewis What Our Clients Think!
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HEART HEALTH 101 EASY STEPS TO A STRONGER HEART DURING AMERICAN HEART MONTH!
February isn’t just a month for Cupid’s arrows; it’s also American Heart Month! As we age, taking care of our heart becomes an even more vital endeavor. So, to help you do just that, here are some simple yet effective ways to keep your heart ticking happily, from heart-healthy foods to exercises and beyond.
help lower your risk of heart disease and keep your ticker in top form. If fish isn’t your favorite, then walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds are excellent plant-based sources.
GET SOME MOVEMENT IN! Staying active is a key player in the
symphony of heart health. You don’t need to run a marathon; a simple daily walk can do wonders. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. It could be a leisurely stroll in the park or a swim at your local pool — the key is to keep moving. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider trying some gentle yoga or tai chi. These activities not only promote flexibility and balance but also provide a mindful approach to staying active. Remember, it’s never too late to start, and finding activities you enjoy makes the journey to a healthier heart all the more enjoyable.
KEEP YOUR STRESS LEVELS LOW. In addition to a heart-healthy diet and regular exercise, consider managing stress. Techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or engaging in activities you love can have positive effects on your heart health. Stress can take a toll on your heart, and finding ways to unwind is a gift you give to yourself. As American Heart Month unfolds, let’s make a collective effort to prioritize our heart health. The simple steps previously outlined can lead to a healthier, happier you. After all, the heartbeat of life deserves our utmost care and attention.
ADD COLORFUL FRUITS AND VEGETABLES TO YOUR DIET.
Maintaining a heart-healthy diet is like giving your heart a warm hug. First on the menu, consider incorporating more fruits and vegetables. The vibrant colors aren’t just pleasing to the eye; they’re packed with essential nutrients that support heart health. Opt for berries, leafy greens, and citrus fruits — nature’s heart medicine. INCORPORATE HEALTHY FATS AND FIBER. Next, the power of omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish like salmon and trout can’t be overstated. These healthy fats can
BAKED SALMON WITH GARLIC AND LEMON
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Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with a zesty dish that combines salmon with the vibrant flavors of garlic and lemon!
INGREDIENTS • 2 lbs salmon fillets • 4 cloves garlic, minced • Juice of 2 lemons • 2 tbsp olive oil • 1 tsp dried oregano • 1 tsp dried thyme • Salt and pepper, to taste
DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 375 F. 2. Line a baking dish with parchment paper. Place the salmon fillets on the baking dish. 3. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the salmon. 4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through. Serve and enjoy!
BOOTS CANDLES CARNATION FURNACE
INSULATE JANUS OPPOSITE RESOLUTION SKATING SWEATER
GARNET HOCKEY
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE
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MEDICARE PART D’S CONFLICTING CHANGES
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THE TOP 4 REASONS YOU NEED A MYMEDICARE.GOV ACCOUNT TODAY! WHAT OUR CLIENTS THINK TIPS FOR A HEART-HEALTHY FEBRUARY AND BEYOND! BAKED SALMON WITH GARLIC AND LEMON
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MEET KUPATA, GEORGIA’S STREET-ROAMING PUP HERO
KUPATA’S ROAD TO FAME The Stray Dog Who Captured the World’s Heart
We often think dogs live the good life, as they seem to do nothing but play, eat, and sleep. Yet, some dogs are busy at work, some without being asked to
do so! Take Kupata, the stray dog in Georgia, for example. This street-roaming pup takes it upon himself to guard a crosswalk all day, every day. In the town of Batumi, this stray stays by a single crosswalk and forces traffic to stop to allow pedestrians to cross the street. He’s especially protective of children! If Kupata sees a car isn’t slowing down, he’ll bark at the driver as they drive away and run to protect the person crossing the street. One local even shared that Kupata will cross the road with children and stay at the park to protect the youngsters. Kupata, which in English means “sausage,” has become a staple in the community due to his hard work, and locals all pitch in to care for and feed the stray dog. His consistently round belly shows just how loved he is. You’ll even
see a massive painting of the beloved animal on a nearby building.
Now, after tireless days of guarding his street, Kupata has his own doghouse provided by the city with an accompanying star on the road with his name on it. Kupata’s dedication made him go viral on social media, and now travelers from all over the world come to see Kupata. Don’t distract him, though. He’s busy at work! Sadly, even though Kupata remains cherished by his community, thousands of stray dogs in the country need shelter, food, and companionship. According to activists, around 500,000 stray dogs and cats roam the streets of Georgia. While stray animals may get a bad reputation for being dangerous or unfriendly, Kupata proves that even these furry friends deserve love and recognition.
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