The Mille Lacs Band’s Circle of Health program reminds Band members of two upcoming deadlines.
December 7 is the deadline to enroll in Medicare Part D — the Medicare prescription drug benefit. This year Circle of Health, in cooperation with Ne-Ia-Shing Pharmacy, did extensive research to find the best plan available to our Band members. Circle of Health has selected Blue Cross Blue Shield’s Medicare Cost Plan to provide coverage for our members eligible for Medicare. This plan has excellent drug and health coverages that will supplement Medicare Part A and B.
January 13 is the deadline to apply for insurance through MNsure, Minnesota’s health insurance exchange.
Circle of Health is not insurance; it is a tribal benefit for Band members. Before Circle of Health can
pay any fees on your behalf, you must have health insurance — either Medicare, Medical Assistance, an employer plan, or a privately purchased plan.
Circle of Health is the ultimate payer of last resort. This means that you must apply for all eligible insurance coverage for you or your family before Circle of Health can pay.
Circle of Health is a certified navigator for MNsure and can help Band members and others with insurance questions and applications. Call 800-491- 6106 for assistance or stop by the Circle of Health office at Ne-Ia-Shing Clinic. In District II and III, you may call 320-336-0224 to set up an appointment during their weekly office hours there or you can stop into the lodge office in Hinckley for assistance.
For more information on Circle of Health, visit millelacsband.com/services/circle-of-health.