Most Medicare Rates Also Increasing

Meanwhile, many rates under the Medicare program also are increasing for 2009. The premium paid by the large majority of enrollees in Part B of the program (generally covering physicians’ services) will remain $96.40. Higher-income retirees pay higher premiums, ranging in 2009 up to $308.30 a month. The Part B deductible will remain $135. The Part A (inpatient hospital care) deductible will be $1,068, and the daily copay for days 61 through 90 in a hospital will increase to $267, and for days beyond the 90th day to $534. Daily copays for stays in a skilled nursing facility will be $133.50, for eligible periods. The estimated average monthly premium for Part D (prescription drug coverage) will be $28, up from $25; however, in most cases federal retirees who continue their FEHB insurance don’t take Part D since FEHB plans already provide prescription drug coverage that is generally considered superior to what Part D provides.