MEDICARE PRESCRIPTION DISCOUNT CARDS 

If you’re over the age of 65 and live anywhere in the United States, you are probably being bombarded with information on the new prescription discount cards being offered through Medicare.     

The cards are intended to provide temporary help toward prescription drug costs from June 1 until the full Medicare drug benefit begins in January 2006.  While the cards will help with drug costs, they will not provide full drug coverage.   

According to John Kordish, Executive Director of the Clearfield County Area Agency on Aging, Inc. (CCAAA), there is no single “Medicare” card.  In fact, there are many competing cards out there.  Discount cards are being offered by private health insurance companies, pharmaceutical companies, Medicare HMOs, and pharmacies that have been approved by Medicare.   

“We are very concerned about what seniors are hearing and seeing from the numerous organizations trying to solicit their own cards, said Mr. Kordish.”  There are over 70 different cards that seniors can access to help with their drug costs.  “Because there is so much information out there we are seeing an increase in the number of calls and walk-ins from our consumers who are very confused on the discount card program,” said Mr. Kordish.   

Mr. Kordish also said to be cautious when choosing a discount card because there are many look-a-like businesses out there trying to scam the elderly.  “If you’re contacted by someone trying to promote one of the discount cards and you’re unsure if it’s legitimate, then call 1-800-MEDICARE to make certain that the card sponsor is approved,” said Mr. Kordish.   

According to the CCAAA, if you are currently on PACE and want to continue in the PACE program, you do not have to do anything.  PACE will automatically enroll you in the First Health Services Discount Card.  If you are eligible for the $600 low-income discount credit, the PACE program will automatically enroll you for the credit.    People on the PACE Card who are not eligible for the credit and PACENET consumers will probably not benefit from a discount card because they are already receiving the best discount on prescription costs.  In addition, Medicaid and Waiver consumers are not eligible for the discount cards.   

For more information, you can contact the Clearfield County Area Agency on Aging, Inc. at 1-800-225-8571, 765-2696 or call 1-800-MEDICARE.