Pennsylvania Department of Aging: Questions About Medicare Prescription Program to Be Answered on Statewide Cable Broadcast

Pennsylvania Department of Aging: Questions About Medicare Prescription Program to Be Answered on Statewide Cable Broadcast

HARRISBURG, Pa., May 9 /PRNewswire/ -- Pennsylvanians who have questions about the new federal Medicare prescription drug program will find answers on a statewide cable television broadcast scheduled for May 11, Secretary of Aging Nora Dowd Eisenhower said today.

"With the May 15 enrollment deadline fast approaching, we know there are still many people who are uncertain about whether to sign up for the Medicare prescription benefit," said Secretary Dowd Eisenhower. "I encourage older adults and family members who have questions to watch this program."

At 7 p.m. on Thursday, the Pennsylvania Cable Network's "Call In" program will feature PACE/PACENET Director Tom Snedden and APPRISE statewide coordinator Jack Vogelsong. Viewers will be able to ask questions by calling a toll-free number that will be displayed during the program.

PACE/PACENET is Pennsylvania's low-cost prescription assistance program for older adults. Under Governor Edward G. Rendell's proposed "PACE Plus Medicare" legislation, the state program will be combined with the new federal benefit, saving an estimated $180 million annually while ensuring that PACE/PACENET cardholders continue to enjoy the same level of service and benefits. To enroll in PACE/PACENET, call 1-800-225-7223.

Housed at the Department of Aging, APPRISE is Pennsylvania's counseling service for Medicare enrollees. Counselors provide advice about a wide range of insurance topics, including the new Medicare benefit. To speak with an APPRISE counselor, call, toll-free, 1-800-783-7067.

May 15 is the last date to enroll in a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan offering coverage for 2006. Although participation in the new benefit is voluntary, many people who choose to enroll later may have to pay a penalty, according to Medicare. The next enrollment period opens on November 15.

CONTACT: Anne C. Bale

(717) 783-1549

Source: Pennsylvania Department of Aging

CONTACT: Anne C. Bale, Pennsylvania Department of Aging,
+1-717-783-1549

Web site: http://www.state.pa.us/

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