National Medical Association Issues Call to Action Regarding Medicare Part D

NATIONAL MEDICAL ASSOCIATION ISSUES CALL TO ACTION TO MOBILIZE LEADERS IN THE BLACK COMMUNITY AROUND MEDICARE PART D

Low Enrollment Numbers Reported Among African American Seniors in Rx Drug Program; Penalty Phase Begins May 15th

WHO: Dr. Sandra L. Gadson, President, National Medical Association,

WHAT: National Medical Association Call to Action on Medicare Part D

WHEN: 12:15 PM, Tuesday, March 14, 2006

WHERE: Cannon Terrace - Cannon House Office Building (Washington, DC)

WHY: ?As leaders of the African American health, civic, civil rights,
faith and government communities, we can ill afford to sit back while our senior population struggles with how to get enrolled in this valuable program,? said Sandra L. Gadson, NMA President. ?We not only have to lend a voice, but we must lend a hand. Mobilizing our African American leaders, our organizations and our resources will provide our seniors the help they need in making a decision that matches with their pocketbook and their prescription drug needs. We are sounding the alarm and asking all organizations to organize senior enrollment activities across America.?

HISTORY: On January 1, 2006, the new Medicare Part D prescription drug program was made available to all people with Medicare. This program is the single biggest change in Medicare?s 40-year history and affects millions of individuals. Over 4 million African American seniors and people with disabilities are eligible for this benefit.

While enrollment is voluntary, many African American seniors are not taking advantage of this important health benefit, particularly those with limited incomes who may qualify for extra help paying for their prescription drug plans. There are less than 75 days until the enrollment period closes. If a person who qualifies for Medicare Part D does not enroll by the May 15th deadline not only will they have to wait until the next enrollment period, they will be penalized one percent for each month they are not enrolled (for the rest of their life). That?s one percent per month more for the cost of their monthly premiums and prescription drug costs.