Nelson Hopes tp Extend Deadline for Seniors to Enroll in Medicare Rx Drug Program

NELSON HOPES TO EXTEND DEADLINE FOR SENIORS TO ENROLL IN MEDICARE Rx DRUG PROGRAM

With the May 15th deadline rapidly approaching to enroll in the new Medicare Prescription Drug Program, Nebraska's Senator Ben Nelson is calling on Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist to bring legislation to extend the deadline to the floor as soon as possible after the Senate reconvenes next week.

"The enrollment process has proved to be confusing for some seniors especially those who are frail and living with problems like dementia as they sort through a variety of drug plan options," said Nelson. "Given the importance of the decision they will make, it is only right to remove the pressure of facing a penalty if they miss the deadline."

A bi-partisan letter signed by Nelson says that by extending the enrollment deadline and delaying late enrollment penalties, we can make sure that our constituents are not forced to make hasty decisions about their health care.

"As one who voted for this drug benefit and wholeheartedly supports the goal of Medicare Part D, which is to help senior citizens pay for expensive medications, I do not want to see people going without or being penalized because they miss the deadline." said Nelson.

In an effort to help Nebraska Seniors navigate the complex system, Nelson has created a special page on his official U.S. Senate website where seniors with questions about the new prescription drug plan can find resources and help.

The page is at http://bennelson.senate.gov/rxresources/.

http://bennelson.senate.gov/news/details.cfm?id=254404&&