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Prescription Drug Discount Card: Questions & Answers
Q.Who is eligible for the new Medicare prescription drug benefits?
In 2004 and 2005, all Medicare
beneficiaries who are not also eligible for Medicaid will be able to purchase a prescription drug discount card.
In 2006, all Medicare beneficiaries will be eligible for the voluntary prescription drug
coverage.
Q.When does the prescription drug program go into effect?
In 2004 and 2005, eligible Medicare recipients will be eligible to purchase a drug discount card (for about $30 per
year). The discount drug cards will save seniors an estimated 15-20% per prescription. Seniors will have a choice of several drug discount card programs.
Q.When can seniors get a drug discount card?
The prescription drug discount card will be available in June 2004. Medicare beneficiaries will be able to choose from among a variety of drug discount card options.
Q.How will
low-income Medicare beneficiaries receive assistance through the interim drug discount card program?
Low-income Medicare beneficiaries will receive a $600 annual credit to the discount drug card of
their choice and will not have to pay the estimated annual $30 fee. The $600 credit will be like an ATM card that seniors can use to purchase prescription drugs. For 2004, Medicare beneficiaries who earn less than
$12,123 (or $16,362 for couples) per year will receive the $600 credit. Low-income beneficiaries will also continue to receive discounts on drug costs after they have spent the $600 credit.
Q. Will seniors actually save any money in this program?
Yes, savings will be immediate and directed toward those who need it the most.
The prescription drug discount card program, available in 2004 and 2005, will save seniors 15-20% or more on their drug costs. After the new drug benefit becomes effective in 2006, low-income seniors will have all of their drug spending covered after co-payments of less than $5, and as little as a dollar.
Q. Where can beneficiaries get information on available drug discount cards?
Medicare beneficiaries can obtain information on the available drug discount cards at www.medicare.gov or by
calling 1-800-MEDICARE.
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