From the Editor of The Social Security and Medicare Advisor, Mary Johnson

Dear Members of Congress,
Medicare "Part D" is ill conceived and out of line.  While some new drug plans hold promise, without a lot of trained, one-on-one guidance, and internet access to the Medicare web site, millions of Medicare consumers will spend far more than they need to for their Part D drug plans.  There are virtually no protections to ensure that beneficiaries will get the lowest-priced coverage available.  Should seniors and the disabled be expected to spend two or three times more than they need to, simply because they haven’t figured out your new system?

You have discriminated against everyone who has no computer or Internet access, meaning — the majority of Medicare beneficiaries.  A phone call to 1-800-MEDICARE is not a reasonable solution.  In addition, your new system forces those of us who choose to help our family and friends to involuntarily provide millions of dollars worth of unpaid professional services that directly profit the insurance industry.

You say you are giving Medicare consumers choice.  But do you know what your constituents are saying?  We’re saying, "We have no choice! You have not given us the choice we want.  We want the freedom to simply present our Medicare card at any pharmacy and get our prescriptions filled at the Medicare approved cost."

Congress, wake up!  Go back to the drawing board.  Replace this complicated mess with a simple, easy to use, traditional Medicare benefit.

Would you like to sign a Medicare Prescription Drug  Plan Protest Petition?  Click here: http://www.tscl.org/action/VolMedicarePresDrugCoverage.asp

December 2005