I need a prescription drug plan.

Sign up now!

The following information is for the 2008 plan year. For information on the 2009 plan year, click here.

How Do I Apply

If you live in Maryland, District of Columbia and Delaware:

• Print an application (1.7 MB, 4 pgs.)

If you live in Virginia:

• Contact Anthem

Why Enroll?

Even if you are not currently taking prescription medications, you may need them in the future. By joining a Medi-CareFirst BlueRx plan now, you will be entitled to discounts on your prescriptions, and you will have coverage when you need it.

If you are eligible for a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan but wait to join, you may be charged a higher monthly premium when you join. The penalty is 1% of the national average premium per month for each month you delay joining after you are eligible. You will pay the higher rate for as long as you have coverage.

Note: You will not pay a penalty if you have drug coverage that is as good as or better than Part D.

When Should You Enroll?

There are three opportunities to join:

1. Initial Enrollment Period – Newly eligible to Medicare? You will ensure that you receive the best rates by enrolling as soon as you are eligible.
   
   
   • If you are turning age 65, your seven-month Initial Enrollment Period begins three months before and ends three months after the month of your birthday.
   • If you have become eligible for Medicare based on disability, you can join three months before and three months after your twenty-fourth month of cash disability benefits.
     
2. Annual Coordinated Election Period – Missed your Initial Enrollment Period? Not satisfied with your existing plan? If you did not join when you were first eligible or if you wish to change plans, you can join from November 15-December 31 annually. If you apply during this period, your coverage will be effective January 1.
   
   Remember, if you missed your Initial Enrollment Period you will likely pay a higher premium every month, for as long as you have a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan.
   
   
3. Special Enrollment Periods (SEP) – Under unique circumstances, you are eligible to enroll or change plans throughout the year. If you meet any of the following criteria, you may be eligible to enroll in Blue Rx:  
   
   
   • Involuntarily lose your coverage that is creditable prescription drug coverage “as good as Medicare’s.”
   • Have both Medicare and Medicaid or your state helps pay for your Medicare premiums.
   • Receive extra help paying for your Medicare Prescription Drug coverage or are no longer eligible for extra help in paying for your Medicare prescription drugs.
   • Have recently moved to Maryland, Delaware or the District of Columbia as your permanent residence and your new home is outside of the service area of your current prescription drug plan.
   • Receive help from a State Pharmacy Assistance Program (SPAP).