Medicare/Prescription Drugs
In 2003, a Medicare Prescription Drug program was created to address
the high costs of medications and help provide more affordable prescription
drugs to seniors. This program is an important first step in lowering
the cost of prescription drugs for Florida seniors. All Medicare recipients
are eligible for this coverage, regardless of income and resources, health
status or current prescription expenses.
The new Medicare Prescription Drug program requires a co-payment for
the cost of the drug, the payment of a monthly premium, which varies
according to the plan, and the payment of a yearly deductible, which
will be no more than $250 in 2006. However, those who qualify and have
limited resources do not have to pay a premium or a deductible. Medicare
recipients may enroll in the Prescription Drug program, Medicare Part
D, through May 15, 2006. After the enrollment period closes on May 15,
the next opportunity will be on November 15, 2006, through December 31,
2006.
The new Prescription Drug program is voluntary, so seniors are free
to make the best decisions about their health based on what they need
in a prescription drug plan. There are many different options for seniors,
and I understand that enrolling and choosing the best plan can be confusing.
I encourage those who want more information about the prescription drug
program to contact my office or call 1-800-MEDICARE or visit www.medicare.gov.
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