MedicareRx drug discount plan provoked immediate controversy when announced last July.  President Bush said it could be implemented without new legislation, offering much needed prescription drug discounts while Congress and the Administration continued to wrangle over adding drug benefits to Medicare.  The original proposal was to allow Medicare beneficiaries to enroll in one of their choice of eligible prescription drug discount card programs.  Although not insurance, the cards, are accepted at many pharmacies nationwide, and would offer estimated savings of 10% to 25%.

A trade organization for pharmacies immediately filed suit charging that drug stores rather than drug manufacturers would be saddled with the burden of providing discounts and consumers would be steered away from local pharmacies to mail order and Internet services.

Prescription drug discount cards are not new and are readily available now. Pharmacies, pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) and senior groups, including TSCL already offer similar programs.

From the editor: For Medicare recipients who have no prescription drug insurance, the right prescription drug discount card can save you money. Cards vary considerably on enrollment fees, available drugs, participating pharmacies and savings. Some programs also impose income restrictions. In addition to finding a pharmacy that accepts your card, it's still important to shop around and compare prices among participating pharmacies.

TSCL's MatureRx(r) Prescription Drug Discount Card compares very favorably. Click here to review a chart comparing MatureRx, MedicareRx and Pharmaceutical companies plans. http://www.tscl.org/newcontent/101271.asp

Use your MatureRx(r) card the next time you have a prescription filled. For MatureRx enrollment information call (800) 511-1314, TSCL group number SCL001. 

Source: "Debate Continues on Medicare Drug Discount Plan," Reuters Health, November 8, 2001. Medicare Discount Card Background Materials, Department of Health and Human Services, July 12, 2001.

To read more on this issue click here to read "Rx for Prescription Drug Costs?" http://www.tscl.org/newcontent/101181.asp

January 2002