What is this faq finder good for?

Enrollment for most beneficiaries is voluntary. The initial enrollment period took place from November 15, 2005 through May 15, 2006. However, if a Medicare beneficiary did not enroll by the May 15 deadline, there is a late enrollment penalty of 1% per month based on the average cost of the premium until one does enroll, which some critics have argued is improperly coercive. This penalty is levied on all future premiums, so the effect is permanent. However, if a potential beneficiary can show that they are enrolled in a "creditable" prescription plan that is at least as good as the Medicare Part D drug benefit, the penalty is waived. Part D Providers do not have the right to autonomously waive the penalty as this shows preferential treatment of members, which is forbidden by CMS.