When will the new drug coverage program go into effect?
The new drug benefit goes into effect on January 1, 2006. It is a voluntary program and will be administered by federally-approved private plans that offer insurance coverage for the cost of prescription drugs. Beginning in May 2004, an interim drug discount card will be available for Medicare beneficiaries. These cards will offer 10 to 15% discounts on prescriptions. Discounts on the purchase of a card will be available for most low-income beneficiaries. More information on the interim drug discount card is available at: http://www.medicare.gov/maddc/home.
