One of the first fruits for patients of the new Medicare bill passed by Congress last year is prescription discount cards. Beginning June 1, with these cards, kidney patients with Medicare may receive cheaper prices on prescription drugs. Low-income individuals may get $600 to pay for medicines in both 2004 and 2005. For patients with medical insurance that provides full drug coverage, the cards may have limited value, but for any patient who pays out-of-pocket for drugs, the cards may help.

All patients, except those already getting outpatient drugs through Medicaid, are eligible and can sign up for a discount card starting in May. Most patients will have a choice among over two-dozen cards. Card sponsors may charge an annual fee up to $30. But there is no enrollment fee for people who qualify for the $600 cash credit.

Are you eligible for the discount card program or the $600 cash assistance to purchase drugs?

Here are some important “Frequently Asked Questions” (FAQs) about the new cards. In addition, check online for more information and news at www.medicare.gov, or watch this space!

Q: How much will I save on my medicines if I join a Medicare drug discount card?

A: You may save 10-15 percent on your total prescription drug costs — and as much as 25 percent on some drugs. You might not save on some drugs. Starting in late April, patients can compare drugs prices offered by each card online at www.medicare.gov or by calling 1-800-MEDICARE.

Q: I already have a prescription drug discount card, but it is not Medicare-approved. How will my old card work with the new Medicare drug discount cards?

A: If you already have a discount card not Medicare-approved, you can keep it and also use a new Medicare drug discount card. For example, you might use one card to get the best price for some medicines and the other card for other drugs. To get the most savings, compare the costs of your prescriptions among all drug discount cards.

Q: I am in a Medicare managed care plan. Can I get a Medicare drug discount card?

A: Yes. Your Medicare managed care plan may offer a prescription drug discount card. If so, you will get your discount card through your plan. In addition, if you qualify for the $600 credit to help pay for prescription drugs, you will receive this credit through your Medicare managed care plan. If your Medicare managed care plan does not offer a drug discount card, you can choose any Medicare drug discount card offered in your area.

Q: I have Medicare and a Medigap policy. Can I get a Medicare drug discount card, and how will it affect my Medigap coverage?

A: Yes. You can choose a Medicare drug discount card even if you have Medigap. The discount card and Medigap coverage will work together, and your Medigap coverage will not be affected.

Stay tuned - and check the AAKP Web site (www.aakp.org) for updates on all these issues in the coming months.

Washington Report, aakpRENALIFE, Vol. 19, No. 6, May 2004

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