Wednesday, April 28, 2004

Seniors should find out how to use Medicare card

In November 2003 our elected representatives in Congress, with the support of President Bush passed HR 1, a major expansion of Medicare benefits. Added were a prescription drug coverage program, increased preventive services, and greater choices through a Health Savings Account.

As an elected official, I deal with Medicare beneficiaries on a daily basis. The assistance that will soon be available to Medicare recipients will offer significant relief for many.

Starting in May, a Medicare-approved prescription drug discount card will enable beneficiaries to gain access to much needed price breaks on their medication, up to 40 percent on generic drugs and up to 20 percent on brand-name drugs.

Many seniors are confused about which Medicare-approved prescription drug discount card is right for them. Some may not even know what a Medicare-approved discount card is.

It is often difficult to wind through the bureaucracy of government; however, you should know that there are people who want to make the process as easy as possible. That’s why Medicare has created 1-800-Medicare (1-800-633-4227) which will answer any questions that seniors might have.

It would be a shame if Medicare beneficiaries failed to take advantage of the tremendous savings that will be available through these Medicare-approved drug discount cards.

It may seem like there are a lot of choices to make, but there are many people out there who are eager to help, including your local pharmacist.

We as elected officials and leaders in our community have an obligation to educate our constituents as to these new benefits. We want to help. It is our job to help, so please, just ask.

Representative Lynn Westmoreland

Sharpsburg, Ga.

[Westmoreland is running in the GOP primary for the open Eighth District Congressional seat being vacated by Mac Collins.]

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