FinkelEngle402

Considering that the Medicare Portion D drug benefit was unveiled, it has verified to be even more confusing and inefficient than its critics predicted. Even seniors who have been able to register for the plan need to still struggle with a $3,000 gap in rewards coverage and a hefty monthly premium. Already the government has had to adjust the system: The Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services reversed an earlier decision prohibiting new Medicare prescription drug plan recipients from participating in free or subsidized drug applications sponsored by pharmaceutical manufacturers. But we can't stop there. The reversal fails to count the full value of these prescriptions toward seniors' $three,000 obligation, an expense that could put many in the poorhouse. The Bush administration claims that its new benefit is a very good deal for people who are not eligible for Medicaid. Yet most folks will pay not only a $250 deductible, but also 25 percent co-insurance on the subsequent $two,000 in covered drug costs. And add roughly $32 a month per person for a monthly premium. medical fraud In addition, the new Medicare plan calls for each senior to cover 100 percent of the costs over $2,000 until catastrophic coverage kicks in at $5,100. We can and have to close the holes that could ruin seniors' fiscal health as they attempt to preserve their physical wellness. Private companies are already taking action. A group of pharmaceutical businesses announced a program called "Bridge Rx," which will aid seniors trapped in the $3,000 hole afford their medications. Seniors will get drug discounts of at least 50 percent in exchange for a 15 percent co-spend. Washington should also act by letting those who qualify for subsidized pharmaceutical manufacturer applications like Bridge Rx - but who concurrently spend a monthly Element D premium - count the full value of their medications' formulary price toward the $three,000 gap. The goal of the Medicare prescription drug program was to aid seniors, not produce income for insurers and pharmacy benefit managers. It really is time to deliver on the promises that were created.