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advocacy Investigating Medicare Part D, the new prescription drug plan You may have heard about Medicare Part D, a new prescription drug plan. The American Cancer Society is working hard to understand the new law and how it will impact the life of cancer patients. This is an example of how the American Cancer Society's advocacy efforts not only include effectively organized petitions or lobbying, but also careful consideration and observation of new laws to make sure that cancer patients' needs are taken into account. An issue that the American Cancer Society has seen so far with Medicare Part D, and any prescription drug coverage plan, is the cost for patients. Drugs can cost $500 or more, so co-pays can add up quickly.  There is also the question of the "donut hole", the time after a deductible is paid that the patient pays for 100% of prescription drugs, without any assistance. In Part D, the patient pays a $250 deductible, then Part D covers 75% of the costs until the patient reaches $2,250. When that amount is reached, the patient enters into the "donut hole" area and pays 100% of the costs until it adds up to be a total of $5,100. At that time, Part D will cover 95% of the bill until the end of the year.
Another Society concern is making sure the public understands their right to appeal so they can be sure to get the treatment that a physician helps them decide is best. "We are monitoring and evaluating the effects of cancer patients. We've been doing a lot of press on co-pays and "donut holes" but have not been lobbying, more sharing info and concerns," explains Christy Schmidt, who works in the National Government Relations Department for the American Cancer Society. The Society's concerns have been brought to the attention of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, as well as Congress and major media outlets like the New York Times and Washington Post. Other strategies to spread the word include articles in regional newspapers, educating Society staff, and radio tours. "We're certainly trying to get information out to the public," says Christy. A Medicare Part D primer is located on www.cancer.org to help you find more information and resources to make informed decisions about your options. The primer has a tool where you can enter in the drugs you need to see which plans cover your prescriptions. You can also visit Medicare's website, www.medicare.gov, and call the toll free number, 1-800-MEDICAR (1-800-633-4227) to speak with a representative. Whenever choosing a prescription drug coverage plan, make sure you choose one that fits your needs. Always talk with your doctor and determine if your specific prescriptions are covered in the plan. Other articles in VOICES this month community focus: volunteers help drive patients |
community focus: local networking supports Relay For Life |
survivorship and patient services: survivor recommends Society resources |
education: deaths from cancer decline in U.S. |
research: celebrating 60 years of progress |
advocacy: statewide efforts have impact |
local area spotlight: Society staff reach migrant workers |
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