Did you receive a $250 check from the government? Chances are that means you’re in the no-man’s land of the doughnut hole -- also called the Medicare Part D coverage gap -- along with the 300,000 others who also received the check. The money is to help with drug costs.

The Medicare coverage gap works like this: You must spend $2,830 for your deductible and drugs. Once you reach amount, the doughnut hole kicks in, and there’s no more help until you pay $4,550 out of pocket. Then your coverage starts again. Once you hit that amount, the government will send you a check for $250 in about six weeks.

Thankfully, this amount is going to go up. Until 2020, the Affordable Care Act dictates that the doughnut hole will get smaller and smaller until it disappears. And soon those who get Medicare and who are in the doughnut hole will be able to get a 50 percent discount on certain medications.

Meanwhile, if you’re in the doughnut hole, there are a few ways to get help. Ask your doctor if you can switch to generics. Find out if any drug companies are offering help with the cost of your drug at the Patient Assistance Program. Put that name in the search box at www.medicare.gov. Also check the state program. If your income is very low, call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 for help programs.

Beware the scammers, as usual. They’re trying to convince seniors that the check won’t arrive without an application, which the scammers will fill out for a fee. Meanwhile, they’ll ask for your personal information, bank account number and Social Security number. Don’t fall for it. If anyone approaches you with this offer, report them. Call 1-800-633-4227 (the Medicare number) as well as your local police.

(c) 2010 King Features Synd., Inc.