State
Discount Drug Programs
As of
September 2004 at least 39 states have established or authorized some
type of program to provide pharmaceutical
coverage or assistance
to those who have trouble paying for their prescription drugs. Most
programs utilize state funds to subsidize a portion of the costs,
usually for a defined population that meets enrollment criteria, but
an increasing
number use discounts or bulk purchasing approaches.
GROWING
NUMBERS:
- 36
states have enacted laws to create programs; three others are by executive
branch action only.
- 32 states
have programs now in operation; in addition, Arkansas, Louisiana, Montana,
New Mexico, South Dakota, Tennessee and Texas have enacted
laws that are not yet in operation.
- 31
states' laws provide for a direct subsidy using state funds.
- 20 states
have created or authorized programs that offer a discount only (no
subsidy) for eligible or enrolled seniors; a majority of these states
also have a separate subsidy program. In addition, Michigan announced
plans for a discount program that began in 2004.
The
following state-by-state list of subsidy and discount programs outlines
subsidy programs, which
reimburse eligible patients for certain
medical
expenses, and state discount drug programs, which offer reduced prices
on prescription medications for eligible patients.
In several
states, discount programs have been added to or integrated with subsidy
programs
- see related details in descriptions below.
In several other states, such as Arkansas, Connecticut, Massachusetts
and
Texas, program features have not yet been established or implemented.
This list does not include Medicare-endorsed discount cards created
strictly under federal law.
The
new Medicare law signed December 8, 2003 eventually will serve or impact
many of the same people now
served by the state programs
listed
below. However, the state subsidy programs mostly will not be
directly affected until 2006. The state discount programs already in
operation
remain effective for now.
Beginning
June 1, 2004, Medicare beneficiaries may apply for and use one of a
series of HHS-endorsed Medicare discounts
cards,
that
might
be combined with, or compete with, the existing state-only
discount plans. A limited subsidy (up to $600 per year) within the
federal
discount card
for eligible beneficiaries may impact existing benefits. Several
states now allow or require use of the federal low-income assistance
in combination
with state-funded benefits.
As of
September 1st, 2004, 13 states - Alaska, Connecticut, Hawaii, Indiana,
Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts,
New York,
North Carolina,
South Dakota,
Vermont, Virginia and Wyoming - have enacted laws or resolutions
responding to or adjusting to the Medicare Rx law provisions.
At least seven states
have adopted "automatic enrollment," allowing some
existing state subsidy program enrollees to also use a state-endorsed
Medicare
discount card.
Specific
program information may have changed since publication. Be sure to
contact the source information
provided with the
programs for
the
latest details.
Alaska |
"SeniorCare Rx" Pharmaceutical
Assistance Program
Program highlights: Seniors receive a cash benefit of $120 per month
to help with basic needs such as food, housing and medication. In
a program implemented
in April 2004, seniors who qualify for the Senior Assistance Program
and who are not receiving comprehensive Medicaid prescription drug
coverage will be provided a choice – between the new SeniorCare
prescription drug subsidy of $1,600 a year or to continue to receive
the Senior Assistance Program cash assistance of $1,440 a year. Together
with the $600 Medicare subsidy to begin this spring, these eligible
seniors opting for the SeniorCare prescription drug benefit will
have a combined drug subsidy of $2,200 a year. Seniors who are receiving
Medicaid prescription drug coverage will be able to continue receiving
the cash assistance of $120 per month.
Eligibility: Minimum age: 65
Income: Under $16,815 a year (individual), under $23,419 per year
(couple)
Contact or Web address for more information: http://health.hss.state.ak.us/dsds/seniorcaresio.htm
The SeniorCare Senior Information Office
3601 C Street, Suite 310
Anchorage, Alaska 99503-5984
Phone: (907) 269-3680
1-800-478-6065 (statewide)
Fax: (907) 269-3688 |
Arizona |
Arizona Drug Discount Program
Program highlights: Savings typically
range from 10% to 55% from the overall retail price. Your actual
discount may be more or less, depending on the medication
and the pharmacy you use.
Eligibility: Medicare enrollees, 65 and
over or disabled. Discounts only. $9.95 enrollment fee.
Contact or Web address for more information: Toll-free:
888-227-8315
Plan administrator: Rx America
PBM Facility address:
221 N Charles Lindbergh Dr.
Salt Lake City, UT 84116
http://www.rxamerica.com/press_az_discount.html
CoppeRx Card
Program Highlights: Will replace Arizona Drug Discount Program (Rx
America) in early 2005. Savings typically range from 10% to
55% from the overall retail
price. Your actual discount may be more or less, depending on
the medication and the pharmacy you use.
Eligibility: Medicare enrollees, 65 and over or disabled. No enrollment
fee.
Contact or Web address for more information: Toll-free: 888-227-8315
Plan administrator: Rx America
PBM Facility address:
221 N Charles Lindbergh Dr.
Salt Lake City, UT 84116
http://www.rxamerica.com/press_az_discount.html, http://www.governor.state.az.us/global/prescription_discounts.htm |
Arkansas |
Prescription Drug Access Improvement Act
Program highlights: Pays for two prescriptions per month for qualified
individuals..
Eligibility: 65 and older. Annual
income under $9,310 for any individual covered by the plan, $18,620
for married couple, for 2004 (would provide
benefit of 2 prescriptions per month, only after federal approval
is received)
Contact or Web address for more information:This
program is not yet operational. Funding might be implemented in 2005.
Arkansas Department of Human Services
Donaghey Plaza West
Slot S201
P.O. Box 1437
Little Rock, AR 72203-1437
(501) 682-8650 |
California |
Discount Prescription Medication Program
(retail discounts via pharmacies)
Program highlights: Drug rebates, fixed
maximum prices. Discounts up to 100 percent vary by income level.
Eligibility: Medicare recipients, 65 and
older or disabled. No income limit
Contact or Web address for more information:
Dept. of Health Services
P.O. Box 997413
Sacramento, CA 95899-7413
916-657-4302, HICAP: 800-434-0222
http://www.dhs.ca.gov/mcs/mcpd/MBB/contracting/sb393/default.htm
Golden
Bear State Pharmacy Assistance Program
Program highlights: Program will replace the program listed above
in 2005. Discounts up to 100 percent will vary based on income
level.
Eligibility: Medicare recipients, 65
and older or disabled. No income limit. (Requires negotiated manufacturer
rebates to achieve larger discounts)
Contact or Web address for more information:
Dept. of Health Services
P.O. Box 997413
Sacramento, CA 95899-7413
Medi-Cal 916-657-1280
http://www.dhs.ca.gov/mcs/mcpd/MBB/contracting/sb393/default.htm |
Connecticut |
Connecticut Pharmaceutical Assistance Contract to the Elderly and
the Disabled (ConnPACE)
Program highlights: Covers up to 100 percent,
depending on income, of most prescriptions and pays for insulin and
insulin syringes and needles.
Eligibility: 65 and older. Maximum annual
income of $20,800 for individuals and $28,100 for married couples.
Contact or Web address for more information:
Connecticut Department of Social Services
25 Sigourney Street
Hartford, CT 06106
EDS: 860-832-9265, in CT: 800-423-5026
http://www.connpace.com |
Delaware |
Delaware Prescription Drug Assistance Program (DPAP)
Program highlights: Provides up to $2,500
in prescription drug assistance per individual in each year for
eligible clients.
Eligibility: 65 and older. Maximum
annual income of $18,620 for individuals and $24,980 for married
couples. Disabled eligible for SSDI. No income
limit if drug costs are 40% or more of annual income.
Contact or Web address for more information:
The Division of Social Services
The Lewis Building
1901 N. Du Pont Hwy.
P.O. Box 906
New Castle, DE 19720
Phone: 255-9500 or 1-800-372-2022
FAX: (302) 255-4454 |
Florida |
Silver SaveRx
(formally, Ron Silver Senior Drug Program/ Prescription Affordability
Act)
Program highlights: Pays up to $160
per month towards your prescriptions. At the beginning of each
month $160 will be put in your Silver Saver account (balance
is held in Medicaid's computer system). Each time you fill a prescription
under Silver Saver the amount will automatically be deducted from
your account.
Eligibility: 65 and older and Dually-Eligible
Medicare-Medicaid. Maximum annual income of $18,620 for individuals
and $24,980 for married couples.
Contact or Web address for more information:
Agency for Health Care Administration
2727 Mahan Drive
Tallahassee, FL 32308
850-414-8306 or 888 419-3456
Prescription
Discount Program
Program highlights: Drug discount
program. Recipients received a nine percent discount on the wholesale
price after paying a $4.50 dispensing fee.
Eligibility: Any Medicare beneficiary,
no age or income limit.
Contact or Web address for more information:
Agency for Health Care Administration
2727 Mahan Drive
Tallahassee, FL 32308
850-487-4441, 888 419-3456
http://www.floridahealthstat.com/publications/prescripaffordbroch112100.pdf |
Hawaii |
Hawaii Rx+ discount program
Program highlights: Discounted prescription
drugs, based on manufacturer rebates to the state.
Eligibility: "All residents
of the state shall be eligible." Maximum annual
income of $37,464 for individuals and $50,268 for married couples.
Contact or Web address for more information:
Hawaii Rx Plus Program
P.O. Box 700220
Kapolei, Hawaii 96709-0220
808-692-7999 (Oahu), 866-878-9769 (Toll-Free Neighbor Islands)
http://www.hawaiirxplus.com/
|
Illinois |
Pharmaceutical
Assistance Program "Circuitbreaker"
Program highlights: Grants for
prescription drugs. Part of a program that also provides grants
up to $1,200
for other expenses and reduced cost license plates.
Eligibility: 65 and older (16 and
older disabled). Maximum annual income of $21,218 for individuals
and $28,480 for married couples.
Contact or Web address for more information:
PHARMACEUTICAL ASSISTANCE
ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT ON AGING
PO BOX 19021
SPRINGFIELD IL 62794-9021
800-252-2904
http://www.iltax.com/CircuitBreaker/index.htm
Illinois
Rx SeniorCare (Medicaid waiver program)
Program highlights: Pays up to $1,750
per year in drug benefits. After $1,750 is reached, patient pays
20 percent of drug costs. Patients with health insurance
that covers prescription drugs can receive a $25 rebate per month
by applying for SeniorCare.
Eligibility: 65 and older (16 and
older disabled). Maximum annual income of $18,620 for individuals
and $24,980 for married couples.
Contact or Web address for more information:
SeniorCare Illinois Department on Aging
P.O. Box 19021
Springfield, IL 62794-9021
800-252-8966
http://www.seniorcareillinois.com/
Illinois
Rx Buying Club
Program highlights: The Illinois Rx
Buying Club provides discounts of 5 to 50 percent on all prescription
drugs approved by the FDA and available through
participating pharmacies and a mail-order option.
Eligibility: Senior citizens
and disabled. No income limits.
Contact or Web address for more information:
Illinois Rx Buying Club
P.O. Box 94858
Chicago, IL 60690-4858
866-215-3462
http://www.state.il.us/aging/3hot/pharm-assist_irs.htm |
Indiana |
"HoosierRx" Indiana
Prescription Drug Fund
Program highlights: Up to 75% discount
off Medicaid prices; once $1200 annual benefit max is reached,
members pay the full Medicaid discount price.
Eligibility: 65 and older. Maximum
annual income of $12,816 for individuals and $17,112 for married
couples.
Contact or Web address for more information:
HoosierRx
P.O. Box 6224
Indianapolis IN 46206-6224
317-234-1381, In IN: 866-267-4679
http://www.in.gov/fssa/hoosierrx/ |
Iowa |
Iowa Priority Prescription Savings Program
(originally Iowa Prescription Drug Purchasing Cooperative)
Program highlights: Covers up to 100 percent
of all prescription medication costs, depending on income level.
Eligibility: Any Medicare beneficiary.
$20 annual enrollment; discounts only. Start-up via HHS federal grant
Contact or Web address for more information:
Department of Public Health
Lucas State Ofc. Bldg
321 E. 12th Street
Des Moines, IA 50319-0075
515 281-4343, toll-free 1-866-282-5817
http://www.iowapriority.org/ |
Kansas |
Senior Pharmacy Assistance Program
Program highlights: Reimbursement will
not exceed 70 percent of out-of-pocket prescription drug costs.
The maximum reimbursement per individual is limited to
$1,200 annually.
Eligibility: 65 and older. Maximum annual
income of $12,568 for individuals and $24,980 for married couples.
Copayment of 30%, maximum reimbursement
of $1,200 per person per year.
Contact or Web address for more information:
Kansas Department on Aging
New England Building 503 S. Kansas Ave.
Topeka, KS 66603-3404
785-296-4986
http://www.agingkansas.org/kdoa/programs/pharmassistprog.htm |
Louisiana |
Louisiana Seniors Pharmacy Assistance Program
Program highlights: This
program was not funded and is not operational for 2004. Older
adults needing assistance with prescriptions should contact Jefferson
Council on Aging, Inc.’s SenioRx Program at 1-866-865-7975
or email seniorx@jcoa.net.
Eligibility: 65 and older. Maximum annual
income of $9,310 per person.
Contact or Web address for more information:
Louisiana Department of Health & Hospitals
1201 Capitol Access Road
P.O. Box 629
Baton Rouge, LA 70821-0629
Phone: (225)342-9500
Fax: (225)342-5568
http://www.dhh.state.la.us/ |
Maine |
Low Cost Drugs for the Elderly Program
Program highlights: Pays 80 percent
of costs for drugs on a “preferred list.” Eligible
recipient pays 20 percent of cost, plus $2.
Eligibility: Maximum monthly income of
$1,436 per individual, $1,926 for couples.
Contact or Web address for more information:
Maine Bureau of Medical Services
442 Civic Center Drive
11 State House Station
Augusta, Maine 04333-0011
888-600-2466, 207-287-2674
http://www.state.me.us/dhs/beas/medbook.htm#lcd
Maine
Rx Program
Program highlights: In the phased
enrollment, Maine Rx Plus cards will be sent automatically to
73,000 Maine residents who had participated in the now defunct
Healthy Maine program which was halted by the Federal government
in December 2002. Cardholders will be eligible for 10-25% discounts
off brand names and 60% off generic for a wide range of drugs
that
are also listed as preferred drugs in the MaineCare program.
Eligibility: Maximum annual income
of $32,285 for individuals, $37,490 for married couples. No age
limits.
Contact or Web address for more information:
Maine Bureau of Medical Services
442 Civic Center Drive
11 State House Station
Augusta, Maine 04333-0011
To enroll: 866-796-2463, 207-287-2674
http://www.maine.gov/tools/whatsnew/index.php?topic=Gov+News&id=1237&v=Article |
Maryland |
Low Cost Drugs for the Elderly Program
Program highlights: Within certain
limitations, all medically necessary prescription drugs are
covered by these
programs. Medicaid recipients pay $1.00
co-payment for generic and preferred brand name products. They
have a $2.00 co-payment for other brand name drugs. The Pharmacy
Assistance
Program recipient pays a co-payment of $2.50 for all generic products
and some brand name drugs. Certain brand name drugs will be $7.50.
The State pays a reduced cost and not the regular retail price
for most prescriptions. The Discount Program recipient pays
65% of the
State’s reduced cost, plus a $1 processing fee. There are
no monthly premiums.
Eligibility: No age limit. Maximum annual
income of $10,147 for individuals and $12,120 for married couples.
Asset limit required.
Contact or Web address for more information:
Maryland Pharmacy Program
P.O. Box 386
Baltimore, Maryland 21203-0386
410-767-5394, 800-226-2142
http://www.dhmh.state.md.us/mma/mpap/
Senior
Prescription Drug Program
(Also known as Short-Term Prescription Drug Subsidy Plan)
Program highlights: Within certain limitations,
all medically necessary prescription drugs are covered by these
programs. Medicaid recipients pay
$1.00 co-payment for generic and preferred brand name products.
They
have a $2.00 co-payment for other brand name drugs. The Pharmacy
Assistance
Program recipient pays a co-payment of $2.50 for all generic
products and some brand name drugs. Certain brand name drugs
will be $7.50.
The State pays a reduced cost and not the regular retail price
for most prescriptions. The Discount Program recipient pays 65%
of the
State’s reduced cost, plus a $1 processing fee. There are
no monthly premiums.
Eligibility: Minimum age: 65 or Medicare
eligible. Single: $27,930 Married: $37,490 $1000 annual benefit
limit
Contact or Web address for more information:
Maryland Pharmacy Program
P.O. Box 386
Baltimore, Maryland 21203-0386
410-767-5394, 800-226-2142
http://www.dhmh.state.md.us/mma/mpap/
Pharmacy
Discount Program
Program highlights: Within certain
limitations, all medically necessary prescription drugs are covered
by these programs. Medicaid recipients pay
$1.00 co-payment for generic and preferred brand name products.
They
have a $2.00 co-payment for other brand name drugs. The Pharmacy
Assistance
Program recipient pays a co-payment of $2.50 for all generic
products and some brand name drugs. Certain brand name drugs
will be $7.50.
The State pays a reduced cost and not the regular retail price
for most prescriptions. The Discount Program recipient pays
65% of the
State’s reduced cost, plus a $1 processing fee. There
are no monthly premiums.
Eligibility: Minimum age: 65
and older or disabled. Maximum income of $1,310/month for single
individuals, $1,767 per month for married couples. No
asset test.
Contact or Web address for more information:
Maryland Pharmacy Program
P.O. Box 386
Baltimore, Maryland 21203-0386
800-226-2142
http://www.dhmh.state.md.us/mma/mpap/ |
Massachusetts |
Prescription Advantage Plan
Program highlights: Subsidized
Prescription Drug Insurance Program. Enrollment closed.
Eligibility: Minimum age: 65. No
upper income limit; No premium or deductibles under $17,502 for
'04;
sliding scale premium & deductible subsidy
up $46,550 for '04. Disabled: $17,502
Contact or Web address for more information:
Executive Office of Elder Affairs
One Ashburton Place, Fifth floor
Boston, Massachusetts 02108
617-727-7750 toll-free: 800-243-4636
http://www.800ageinfo.com/
Aggregate
Purchasing Law
Program highlights: Not in operation.
Delayed by executive branch. Program would supply rebates from
manufacturers on the cost of drugs.
Eligibility: State agency to coordinate
combined purchasing for Senior Pharmacy Assistance enrollees,
Medicare and Medicaid, state workers, uninsured
and underinsured people.
Contact or Web address for more information:
Executive Office of Elder Affairs
One Ashburton Place, Fifth floor
Boston, Massachusetts 02108
617-727-7750 toll-free: 800-243-4636
http://www.800ageinfo.com/
Pharmacy
Outreach Program
Also known as “Mass MedLine”
Program highlights: Any resident may obtain
advice from academic pharmacist and help with industry program
applications at no charge.
Eligibility: No eligibility requirements.
Contact or Web address for more information:
Executive Office of Elder Affairs: 508-373-0031, toll-free: 866-633-1617
Executive Office of Elder Affairs
One Ashburton Place, Fifth floor
Boston, Massachusetts 02108
617-727-7750 toll-free: 800-243-4636
http://www.800ageinfo.com/ |
Michigan |
Elder Prescription Insurance Coverage (EPIC) Program
Program highlights: Enrollment
temporarily closed except for emergency coverage. EPIC covers
up to 100 percent
of the cost of most prescription drugs plus
insulin and syringes for diabetics. The State of Michigan has a
list of drugs from which it prefers that physicians prescribe
because
these drugs have been proven to be both therapeutically sound and
cost effective. Drugs that have not been chosen for this list may
require prior authorization before they are paid for by EPIC.
Eligibility: 65 and older. Income limits
-- Single: $18,620, Married: $24,980. Annual fee of $25. For 45 day
emergency coverage -- Single: $13,470
Married: $18,180
Contact or Web address for more information:
Michigan Department of Community Health
Sixth Floor, Lewis Cass Building
320 South Walnut Street
Lansing, Michigan 48913
517-373-2559
http://www.miepic.com/about.asp
MiRx
Prescription Savings Program
Program highlights: Beneficiaries
of the MiRx Card program will save as much as 20 percent off
the retail prices they would normally pay as a cash customer.
Eligibility: No minimum age. Income
levels slide depending on family size (1= $27,930 to 8= $94,050).
No enrollment fee.
Contact or Web address for more information:
Michigan Department of Community Health
Sixth Floor, Lewis Cass Building
320 South Walnut Street
Lansing, Michigan 48913
866-755-6479
http://www.michigan.gov/mdch/0,1607,7-132--100833--,00.html
Application: http://www.michigan.gov/documents/MiRx_brochure_150dpi_103392_7.pdf |
Minnesota |
Prescription Drug Program
Program highlights: Pays up to 100 percent
of the cost for most prescription drugs.
Eligibility: Minimum age: 65 or disabled
of any age
Single: $11,172/yr
Married: $14,988/yr ('04) liquid assets under $10,000 or $18,000
couple
Contact or Web address for more information:
Minnesota Department of Human Services
444 Lafayette Road North
Saint Paul, MN 55155
Dept. of Human Services, 651-297-5404
Senior Linkage Line: 800-333-2433
http://www.dhs.state.mn.us/main/groups/agencywide/documents/pub/DHS_id_020995.hcsp |
Missouri |
Missouri Senior Rx Program
Program highlights: Covers up to 100
percent of the cost of most prescription medications used for outpatient
purposes, prescription insulin, prescription
strength prenatal vitamins, fluoride preparations, prescription compounds
(drugs that are mixed together to create a medication that is not
commercially available), and DESI drugs.
Eligibility: Minimum age: 65
Maximum annual income of $17,000 for individuals and $23,000 for
married
Co-pay = 40% ; $250-500 deductible, depending on income. Application
fee $25-35 /year.
Contact or Web address for more information:
Missouri Senior Rx Program
205 Jefferson Street, Room 1310
Jefferson City, MO 65101
866-556-9316
http://www.dhss.mo.gov/MoSeniorRx/ |
Montana |
Prescription Drug Expansion Program
Program highlights: Offer discounts
on prescription drugs for Medicaid members.
Eligibility:
Minimum age: 62 (disabled 18 and over)
Maximum annual income of $18,620 for eligible individuals, regardless
of spouse’s income.
Contact or Web address for more information:
Not yet operational.
Department of Public Health and Human Services
111 N Sanders, Room 301/308
PO Box 4210
Helena, MT 59604
(800) 551-3191
http://www.dphhs.state.mt.us/ |
Nevada |
Senior Rx Insurance Subsidy for Prescription Drugs
Program highlights: Senior Rx provides
up to $5,000 in benefits per year. Many of the most commonly prescribed
drugs are available through Senior Rx for
a co-pay of $10 per drug. The same drug, in some cases, could otherwise
cost an uninsured senior 10 times as much.
Eligibility: Minimum age: 62
Maximum annual income of $28,660 for families. Program offers subsidy
for prescription drugs in private insurance policies; uses tobacco
funds.
Contact or Web address for more information:
Nevada Senior Rx
Department of Human Resources
1761 E College Parkway, Bldg B, Ste 113
Carson City, NV 89706-7954
Inside NV: 800-262-7726
http://www.nevadaseniorrx.com/ |
New Hampshire |
Prescription Drug Discount Program for Seniors
Program highlights: Prescription discount
program for seniors, up to 15 percent for brand name medications
and up to 40 Percent for generic medications.
Eligibility: Minimum age: 65
No income limit, no enrollment fee.
Contact or Web address for more information:
Division of Elderly and Adult Services
129 Pleasant Street
Concord, NH 03301-3857
800-351-1888
http://www.egov.nh.gov/medicine%2Dcabinet/ |
New Jersey |
PAAD - Pharmaceutical Assistance for the Aged and Disabled
Program highlights: Helps eligible
New Jersey residents pay some or all of the costs for prescription
drugs, insulin, insulin needles, certain diabetic
testing materials and syringes and needles for injectable medicines
used for the treatment of multiple sclerosis. Only drugs approved
by the Food and Drug Administration are covered. Drugs purchased
outside the State of New Jersey are not covered, nor is any pharmaceutical
product whose manufacturer has not agreed to provide rebates to
the
State of New Jersey. Patient pays $5 copay per prescription.
Eligibility: Minimum age: 65 (21 for disabled)
Maximum annual income of $19,739 for individuals and $24,203 for
married.
Contact or Web address for more information:
Department of Health & Senior Services
PAAD-HAAAD
PO Box 715
Trenton, NJ 08625-0715
609-588-7048, In NJ: 800-792-9745
http://www.state.nj.us/health/seniorbenefits/paadapp.htm
Senior
Gold Prescription Discount Program
Program highlights: The Senior Gold
Prescription Plan provides prescription drugs, insulin, insulin
supplies and diabetic testing material to eligible New Jersey
residents for $15 per prescription plus one half of the cost
of the
prescription. 50% co-pay (adjusts each January)
Eligibility: Minimum age: 65
Maximum annual income of $20,437-$30,437 for individuals and $25,058-$35,058
for married couples.
Contact or Web address for more information:
Department of Health & Senior Services
Senior Gold
P.O. Box 724
Trenton, NJ 08625
609-588-7048, In NJ: 800-792-9745
http://www.state.nj.us/health/seniorbenefits/paadapp.htm |
New York |
EPIC - Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage
Program highlights: The card includes
an annual $600 Medicare credit that can be applied directly to
the cost of your prescription drugs in 2004 and 2005.
In many cases, when you use your $600 credit you will pay lower co-payments.
Eligibility: Minimum age: 65
Maximum annual income of $35,000 for individuals and $50,000 for
married couples.
Contact or Web address for more information:
EPIC
P.O. Box 15022
Albany, NY 12212-5022
518-452-6828, In NY: 800-332-3742
http://www.health.state.ny.us/nysdoh/epic/faq.htm |
North Carolina |
Senior Care Health Plan
Program highlights: Senior Care offers
a traditional drug benefit program that covers ninety percent (90%)
of the cost for prescription drugs and insulin.
You are responsible for the remaining 10% co-payment on each prescription.
You are also responsible for any expenses not covered by Senior Care.
Reimbursements capped at $600 annually, after which the patient pays
the full prescription price.
Eligibility: Minimum age: 65
Maximum annual income of $18,620 for individuals and $24,980 for
married couples. $37,240 for persons diagnosed with heart disease
(CVD), COPD, or diabetes.
Contact or Web address for more information:
Office of the Governor
NC Senior Care Program
P.O. Box 10068
Raleigh, NC 27605-5068
919-733-2040; In-state toll-free: 866-226-1388
http://www.ncseniorcare.com/ |
Ohio |
Golden Buckeye Prescription Drug Savings Program
Program highlights: Discounts at
90 percent of the state’s pharmacies. Ohio residents
who hold current Ohio Driver License or State ID card automatically
receive a Golden Buckeye card in the month of their 60th birthday.
Discounts may vary by income levels.
Eligibility: Minimum age: 60 (no disabled
age limit).
No income limit.
Contact or Web address for more information:
Department of Aging
50 W. Broad St./9th Fl.
Columbus, OH 43215-3363
Toll-free: 800 301-6446
http://www.goldenbuckeye.com/buckeyerx.html
Ohio’s
Best Rx
Program highlights: Not yet operational.
Program would provide benefits similar to those listed in the
program above. Revised goal November 2004.
Eligibility: Minimum age: 60, or
under 60 with family.
Maximum annual income of $23,275 for individuals, $31,225 for married
couples.
Contact or Web address for more information:
Department of Aging
50 W. Broad St./9th Fl.
Columbus, OH 43215-3363
Toll-free: 800 301-6446
http://www.goldenbuckeye.com/buckeyerx.html |
Oregon |
Senior Prescription Drug Assistance Program
Program highlights: The Senior Prescription
Drug Assistance Program (SPDAP) allows members of the program to
purchase prescription drugs from participating
pharmacies at the State Medicaid rate. $50 annual fee, provides discount
not to exceed state Medicaid prescription rates.
Eligibility: Minimum age: 65
Maximum annual income of $17,223 for individuals.
Contact or Web address for more information:
Oregon Department of Human Services
500 Summer St. NE E25
Salem, OR 97301-1098
503-945-6530
http://www.dhs.state.or.us/seniors/aging/spdap_info.htm |
Pennsylvania |
PACE – Pharmaceutical
Assistance for the Elderly
Program highlights: Once you are
enrolled in the PACE program, a benefit card will be sent to
you, and you
will pay a $6 copayment for each generic prescription
medication and a $9 copayment for each brand name prescription
at your pharmacy.
Eligibility: Minimum age: 65
Maximum annual income of $14,500 for individuals and $17,700 for
married couples.
Contact or Web address for more information:
Pennsylvania Department of Aging
555 Walnut Street
5th Floor
Harrisburg, PA 17101
717-652-9028, In PA 800-225-7223
http://www.aging.state.pa.us/aging/cwp/view.asp?a=293&Q=173876
PACENET
- PACE Needs Enhancement Tier
Program highlights: Once you are enrolled
in the PACENET program, a benefit card will be sent to you, and
you must meet a $40 monthly deductible. The deductible
is cumulative if it is not met each month. Once you meet the
$40 deductible each month, you will pay an $8 copayment for each
generic
prescription medication and a $15 copayment for each brand name
prescription medication. $40 per month deductible,
Eligibility: Minimum age: 65
Maximum annual income of $23,500 for individuals and $31,500 for
married couples.
Contact or Web address for more information:
Pennsylvania Department of Aging
555 Walnut Street
5th Floor
Harrisburg, PA 17101
717-652-9028, In PA 800-225-7223
http://www.aging.state.pa.us/aging/cwp/view.asp?a=293&Q=173876 |
Rhode Island |
RIPAE - Rhode Island Pharmaceutical Assistance for the Elderly
Program highlights: Pays a portion of
prescription drugs used to treat specified ailments. Program has
3 levels of coverage, based on income. Excludes income
spent on medical expenses if greater than 3% of total income.
Eligibility: Minimum age: 65
Maximum annual income of $16,490-$39,102 for individuals and $20,613-$52,458
for married couples.
Contact or Web address for more information:
Department of Elderly Affairs
John O. Pastore Center
Benjamin Rush Building #55
35 Howard Avenue
Cranston, RI 02920
401-222-2880
http://www.dea.state.ri.us/PDFs/pocket2.pdf |
South Carolina |
SilverxCard - Seniors' Prescription Drug Program
Program highlights: Covers up to $500
annually of prescription drug costs. Deductible, based on income
levels, and copayments ranging from $10 to $21, based
on medication purchased.
Eligibility: Minimum age: 65
Maximum annual income of $18,620 for individuals and $24,980 for
married couples.
Contact or Web address for more information:
Office of Insurance Services
SilveRx Card
1801 Main Street
P.O. Box 100101
Columbia, SC 29202-3101
877-239-5277, 803-734-1061
http://www.silverxcard.com/ |
Tennessee |
TennCare
Rx program
Program highlights: This program is
not yet operational.
Eligibility: Program for "individuals
lacking Rx insurance coverage" -details
to be specified.
Contact or Web address for more information:
Tennessee Department of Finance & Administration
BUREAU OF TENNCARE
729 Church Street
Nashville, TN 37247
TennCare Information Line 1-800-669-1851
|
Texas |
State Prescription Drug Program
Program highlights: Not yet
in operation. Postponed due to lack of funds. Details of what will be covered
have not been determined.
Eligibility: Medicare dual-eligibles
and others; upper limit to be determined by Commission
Contact or Web address for more information:
HHSC Headquarters
4900 N. Lamar Blvd.
Austin, TX 78751-2316
512-424-6500 (Voice) or 512-424-6597 (TDD) |
Vermont |
VHAP Pharmacy - Vermont Health Access Program
Program highlights: Covers acute
care and maintenance drugs. Discount varies based on income
levels.
Eligibility: Minimum age: 65
Maximum annual income of $13,368 for individuals and $17,988 for
married couples. Disabled: Recipients of disability benefits through
SS or Medicare.
Contact or Web address for more information:
Office of Vermont Health Access
312 Hurricane Lane
Williston, Vermont 05495
Phone: 802 879-5900
Fax: 802 879-5962
800-529-4060 (in state), 800-250-8427 (out of state)
http://www.dsw.state.vt.us/districts/ovha/ovha8.htm
VSCRIPT
Program highlights: Only covers maintenance
drugs. Discount varies, based on income levels.
Eligibility: Minimum age: 65
Maximum annual income of $16,292 for individuals and $21,857 for
married couples. Disabled: Recipients of Social Security.
Contact or Web address for more information:
Office of Vermont Health Access
312 Hurricane Lane
Williston, Vermont 05495
Phone: 802 879-5900
Fax: 802 879-5962
800-529-4060 (in state), 800-250-8427 (out of state)
http://www.dsw.state.vt.us/districts/ovha/ovha8.htm
VSCRIPT
Expanded
Program highlights: Only covers maintenance
drugs. Discount varies, based on income levels.
Eligibility: Minimum age: 65
Maximum annual income of $20,947 for individuals and $28,102 for
married couples.
Contact or Web address for more information:
Office of Vermont Health Access
312 Hurricane Lane
Williston, Vermont 05495
Phone: 802 879-5900
Fax: 802 879-5962
800-529-4060 (in state), 800-250-8427 (out of state)
http://www.dsw.state.vt.us/districts/ovha/ovha8.htm
Healthy
Vermonters (Plus) Discount Program
Program highlights: Includes a Medicaid
waiver with 2% state payment toward cost of drugs. Not operational
following adverse, 2002 federal ruling.
Eligibility: Minimum age: None.
Maximum annual income of $37,240 for individuals over 65 and $49,960
for married couples over 65. For all others, $27,930 for individuals
and $37,470 for married couples.
Contact or Web address for more information:
Office of Vermont Health Access
312 Hurricane Lane
Williston, Vermont 05495
Phone: 802 879-5900
Fax: 802 879-5962
800-529-4060 (in state), 800-250-8427 (out of state)
http://www.dsw.state.vt.us/districts/ovha/ovha8.htm |
Washington |
Rx Washington discount plan
Program highlights: Negotiated discounts
between 15% and 25% discounts on all prescription drugs.
Eligibility: Minimum age: 50 (disabled
over 19)
Maximum annual income of $27,936 for individuals and $37,470 for
married couples.
Contact or Web address for more information:
Washington Health Care Authority
676 Woodland Square Loop SE
Lacey, WA 98503
http://rx.wa.gov/rx.shtml
800-227-5255 |
West Virginia |
Golden Mountaineer Discount Card Program
Program highlights: Senior West Virginians
age 60 and older are eligible for the Golden Mountaineer Discount
Card, which can be used at participating retailers
and businesses. Average prescription discount is 13 percent less
than wholesale for generics, but varies by individual pharmacy.
Eligibility: Minimum age: 60
No income requirements.
Contact or Web address for more information:
Bureau of Senior Services
1900 Kanawha Boulevard, East
Holly Grove, Building #10
Charleston, West Virginia 25305-0160
304-558-3317 or toll-free at 1-877-987-3646
http://www.state.wv.us/seniorservices/wvboss_article.cfm?atl=FB618522-BBD8-11D5-92170020781CA4C6 |
Wisconsin |
Wisconsin SeniorCare Prescription Drug Assistance Program
Program highlights: Prescription drug
assistance for the elderly. Benefits determined by income levels.
$30 annual enrollment fee. More than 95 percent
of the state’s pharmacies offer discounts of up to 50 percent
on covered prescription medications.
Eligibility: Minimum age: 65
No income limit. Starting at $14,176 per individual and $19,104 per
couple annually, capped at $22,344 or higher per individual and $29,976
or higher per couple annually.
Contact or Web address for more information:
Department of Health and Family Services
1 W. Wilson Street
Madison, WI 53702
SeniorCare Customer Service Hotline 800-657-2038
http://www.dhfs.state.wi.us/seniorcare/index.htm |
Wyoming |
Prescription Drug Assistance Program
Program highlights: Prescription drug
assistance of up to 15 percent off the wholesale price for the
elderly. Benefits determined by income level.
Eligibility: No age limit.
Maximum annual income of $9,310 and no more than $1,000 in resource,
with home and one vehicle exempt. Enrollees with income under $9,310
are eligible regardless of spouse’s income.
Contact or Web address for more information:
Department of Health/ Medicaid
Hathaway Bldg., Room 147
2300 Capitol Ave.
Cheyenne, WY 82002
307-777-7531, 800-442-2766
http://wyequalitycare.acs-inc.com/ |
|
