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COPYRIGHT 2005 The Dallas Morning News
Byline: Bob Moos
Oct. 30--If Medicare's 42 million beneficiaries are searching for a song that captures their mood these days, they might consider that old standard, "Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered."
Texans who want to sign up for Medicare's new prescription drug benefit can choose from among 47 plans, offered by 20 companies. Since the companies launched their marketing blitzes a month ago, seniors have been learning about "formularies," "zero deductibles" and "tiered copayments."
"It's like your taxes," said Shirley Bielefeldt, 72, of Dallas. "You have to be a CPA to figure it out."
Seniors are doing their homework because they expect a payoff. When coverage begins Jan. 1, they're supposed to save an average of 37 percent on out-of-pocket drug costs.
Enrollment starts Nov. 15 and runs through May 15. Seniors may also buy prescription protection through one of several Medicare Advantage Plans, managed-care alternatives that also cover doctor visits and hospital care.
Mrs. Bielefeldt has studied her Medicare & You handbook and attended a question-and-answer session at Doctors Hospital in Dallas, where a Medicare volunteer explained...
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