“Prescription drugs are a huge expense for Kansas seniors,” Moran said. “As this new benefit is implemented, seniors need to know what their choices are so they can get the drug coverage that best meets their needs.”

The Medicare prescription drug benefit will begin January 1, 2006. Individuals eligible for Medicare will have access to new plans intended to help offset prescription drug costs. Private health insurance companies are offering 40 different drug plans in Kansas. To access benefits, seniors must enroll in a plan. Enrollment for the Medicare prescription drug benefit begins November 15 and continues through May 15, 2006.

The broadcast will take a close-up look at the drug program, including its history, eligibility criteria, how to compare plans, the application procedure for extra help and resources available for further information.

Joining Moran for the discussion will be Bud Nolker, Area Director with the Social Security Administration; Nancy Schmidt, Health Insurance Specialist with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services; and Mary Lou Odle, a Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Agent with K-State Research and Extension, who is also a Senior Health Insurance Counselor of Kansas.

The program will also air Monday, November 14, at 9:30 p.m. on the Topeka PBS channel, KTWU.

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