(a) Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, the Department shall require Program recipients to apply for eligibility in the Maryland Medical Assistance Program, the Medicare Part B Program, and the Medicare Part D Program within 60 days of notification to do so by the Department.

(b) The Department may not require Program recipients to apply for eligibility in the Medicare Part B Program or the Medicare Part D Program if the Department determines the Program recipient has comparable insurance coverage.