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The Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit (Medicare Part D)
is Ready to Launch
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is set
to launch the Medicare Modernization Act’s (MMA), new
prescription drug benefit (Part D) for Medicare beneficiaries.
October 1, 2005 marked the official beginning of the marketing
and outreach phase, during which the various drug plans are
permitted to distribute informational materials on their formularies
and services. This includes plans that work with traditional
Medicare coverage and plans that work with Medicare Advantage
programs, which include prescription drug coverage and other
services.
All approved plans are expected to meet Medicare’s requirements
for providing medically necessary drugs. These include formulary
standards, as well as standards for access to retail pharmacies
and drugs in nursing facilities.
Of special importance to social workers are the provisions
for dual eligibles—those individuals on Medicare and
Medicaid whose prescription drug coverage will move from Medicaid
to Medicare Part D.
Medicare Part D Calendar
- November 15, 2005: Initial enrollment for Medicare prescription
drug plans begins.
- January 1, 2006: Coverage begins under Medicare Part D
for those who enroll by December 31, 2005.
- May 15, 2006: Last day to enroll in a Medicare drug plan
offering prescription drug coverage for 2006 without paying
a penalty.
For More Information
For general Medicare information, ordering Medicare booklets,
and information about health plans, contact 1-800-MEDICARE
(1-800-633-4277) 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for assistance
or go to www.medicare.gov.
English and Spanish-speaking customer service representatives
at this number can answer questions about the Original Medicare
Plan and provide up-to-date information regarding the prescription
drug plans available in your area.
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