Marchant Reminds Seniors of Medicare Part D Enrollment Deadline

Marchant Reminds Seniors of Medicare Part D Enrollment Deadline

Washington, DC: Today U.S. Representative Kenny Marchant (TX-24) reminded seniors that May 15, the final date to enroll in the Medicare Prescription Drug Plan, is fast approaching.

"Coverage for the new prescription drug plan has already begun," said Marchant. "Thousands of seniors across the country are saving on their prescription drug costs."

The typical senior who previously lacked drug coverage will end up spending about half of what he or she used to spend on prescription drugs each year - an average annual savings of $1,100. Beneficiaries can choose from a number of private plans to find the one that best fits them. Plan providers are competing for seniors' business, which means they will save more and get the coverage the want.

Medicare's Prescription Drug Plan is purely voluntary. If you are pleased with your current prescription drug coverage, you may keep it. Not enrolling by May 15, 2006 will result in late fees and higher premiums.

"The prescription drug plan has exceeded expectations," Marchant remarked. "Costs are falling - the average premium seniors pay for their prescription drug benefit is just $25 per month, and this year the Federal government will spend 20 percent less overall on the Medicare drug benefit than was projected last July.

"This plan offers seniors more choices and better access to the prescription drugs they need. I encourage all who are eligible to sign up before the enrollment deadline next Monday."

http://www.house.gov/apps/list/press/tx24_marchant/medicarereminder.html