Beginning in 2006 the discount card will no longer be needed because private companies will begin offering a Medicare prescription drug plan that beneficiaries can choose to join.

Some details about these programs are still to be determined, but basic information about the program, including an analysis of how much beneficiaries would pay out of pocket for their drugs under the plan, can be found in the following documents.

The Area Agency on Aging 1-B (AAA 1-B) Board of Directors has taken a position that was opposed to the legislation because the prescription drug benefit does not go far enough to meet the needs of many older adults. The AAA 1-B is also concerned that the program and reforms may actually increase out of pocket costs for some groups of older adults. A summary of the AAA 1-B concerns about the changes is also provided.

The AAA 1-B believes that the approved changes to Medicare provide a basic framework for a drug benefit and Medicare reforms, but many changes will be needed as we understand more about the impact of the new legislation. We are at a beginning, and not an end. Individuals who wish to keep informed on legislative issues including Medicare and other aging issues are invited to join the AAA 1-B Senior Advocacy Network. Senior Advocacy Network members receive regular information and updates from the AAA 1-B, and accept calls to advocacy when key decisions are being made at the state and federal levels.

For more information on the Senior Advocacy Network, please click here.