Monday, June 14, 2004

Atlantic County Helps Residents Understand New Medicare Drug Discount Program

Many senior Atlantic County residents may not be taking advantage of the new federal Medicare drug discount program due to the mistaken belief that the application process is too difficult and the benefit not worth it. "This belief is wrong," says Atlantic County Executive Dennis Levinson. "Getting help to pay for expensive prescription medication is easier than one might think."

Assistance is only a phone call away for Atlantic County residents who are having difficulty understanding the new Medicare-approved drug discount card program. Levinson wants senior citizens to know that the Atlantic County Division of Intergenerational Services has two senior health insurance counselors, in addition to regular staff members, who are available to offer information and assistance to anyone who has questions about the new Medicare program. Residents may call the division's toll free number, 1-888-426-9243, Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM.

The Medicare Prescription Drug Discount Card and Transitional Assistance Program was enacted into law on December 8, 2003 as part of the Medicare Modernization Act. It is a temporary program designed to provide immediate assistance for Medicare beneficiaries in lowering their prescription drug costs until a new, comprehensive prescription drug benefit takes effect on January 1, 2006.

"Residents who do not have the benefit of a prescription plan can pay as much as 20 percent more than those with coverage," Levinson stated. "With this card, Medicare beneficiaries may realize prescription drug discounts of 10 to 20 percent. That is a significant savings, especially for those on fixed incomes. I urge all senior citizens to look into this program and to call our Division of Intergenerational Services if they have any questions."

All Medicare beneficiaries are eligible for the discount card, except those who have Medicaid drug coverage. In addition, some enrollees may qualify for as much as $600 to help pay for prescription drugs. The discount card is only one of several programs available to help Medicare beneficiaries receive discounts on the price of their prescription medications.

For more information, call the Atlantic County Division of Intergenerational Services at 1-888-426-9243.

County News