Are you in the Medicare prescription drug donut hole? If so, you’’ll soon receive the $250 one-time payment that was promised by healthcare reform. But beware of scam artists.
The famous donut hole in Medicare prescription drug coverage will be phased out under healthcare reform. In the meantime, most people with disabilities and seniors who fall into this gap in coverage are entitled to a one-time payment of $250 to help offset their costs.
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has just posted a brochure on its Web site www.medicare.gov that describes details about the tax-free, one-time payment. The first checks are being mailed June 10 and checks will be mailed monthly after people have entered the coverage gap.
To help fight fraud and protect beneficiaries from potential scams, Medicare is reminding people that there are no forms to fill out to receive this benefit. Medicare will automatically send a check. The envelope will have the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services symbol on it and will say “Medicare Part D.”
Beware of anyone asking for information to “help you” apply for this benefit. You do not need to provide any personal information like Medicare, Social Security, or bank account numbers to get the rebate check. CMS warns people not to give any personal information to anyone who calls about the $250 rebate check.
People with Medicare should call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) to report any suspected fraud or scams or with any questions.
