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January 13, 2006 Governor Riley Takes Steps to Help Seniors with New Prescription Drug Program MONTGOMERY – Governor Bob Riley on Friday directed the Alabama Medicaid Agency to help senior citizens who are having problems receiving their prescription medications because of the recent implementation of the Medicare Part D prescription drug program.
States across the nation are experiencing similar difficulties.
Governor Riley wants the agency to develop a system for reimbursing pharmacies for prescriptions they fill for Dual Eligible individuals, who are those qualifying for both Medicare and Medicaid.
“We will continue doing all we can at the state level to make sure our senior citizens receive the special attention and protection they deserve," Governor Riley said.
Under the Governor’s plan, Alabama senior citizens who received their prescriptions drugs through Medicaid before January 1 of this year will be guaranteed to receive their medications. Pharmacies will be required to attempt to utilize the Medicare system but Medicaid will serve as a safety net.
“People who are Dual Eligible should be receiving their pharmacy services from the Medicare program but they should not be penalized because there have been problems implementing that program across the country,” said Medicaid Commissioner Carol Herrmann-Steckel. “What Governor Riley is doing will be in place for at least the first two weeks of January and will then be reviewed to determine if the Medicare program has improved its delivery and reimbursement system to the point that it meets the needs of our senior citizens.”
Irene Collins, the Executive Director of the Alabama Department of Senior Citizens, said, "Through the area agencies on aging we have made significant efforts to educate and assist Alabama seniors. It is important to remember that this is prescription drug insurance and with all insurance policies, you have many options. We will continue our outreach efforts and encourage our seniors to make wise choices. We appreciate Governor Riley taking this initiative to assist the dual-eligible recipients."
It is estimated the maximum cost to the state will be $15 million dollars. However, Governor Riley and Commissioner Herrmann-Steckel said they do not believe the costs will reach the maximum level before Medicare Part D begins to function as intended. | |
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