1. THE NEW MEDICARE PRESCRIPTION DRUG BENEFIT STARTING JANUARY 1ST, 2006

This document provides a brief introduction to the new medicare prescription drug benefit toolkit. Click here to view the medicare toolkit introduction letter

2. ISSUES TO CONSIDER IN CHOOSING THE RIGHT DRUG PLAN

This document explains why enrolling in the Medicare drug program is so important. It addresses particular concerns for people who are on both Medicare and Medicaid and for those who get their prescription drugs through an AIDS Drug Assistance Program. It outlines issues to consider in choosing the best plan for you and explains how to learn more about the drug plans that are available in your area. It lets you know that individual assistance in selecting the best drug plan for you is available by calling 1-800-MEDICARE or online at www.medicare.gov. Click here to find our which plan is right for you

3. THE EXTRA HELP LOW-INCOME SUBSIDY: FINANCIAL HELP TO GET THE DRUGS YOU NEED

This document explains the eligibility requirements for the “extra help” low-income subsidy. It describes how a subsidy will greatly reduce the cost of participating in a Medicare drug plan. It also lets you know that you can apply for an extra help low-income subsidy at your state Medicaid office, by calling the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213, or online at www.socialsecurity.gov. Click here to find information on receiving extra help

4. ATTENTION EVERYONE ON MEDICARE

This poster has been printed on heavier paper so that it can easily be distributed and hung in doctors’ offices, health care centers, AIDS service organizations, and other community based organizations. The poster provides some basic information that will help to maximize successful enrollment in the new drug program. It briefly describes the issues to consider in selecting a drug plan and where you can learn more about your drug plan options. It also encourages low-income Medicare beneficiaries to apply for an “extra help” subsidy. Click here to view the poster

5. MEDICARE BENEFICIARY WORKSHEET

This worksheet helps you to compare your prescription drug needs with the Medicare drug plans available in your area. It can help you to figure out which plan will provide the best access to the drugs you need, is the most cost-effective, and will allow you to get your prescription drugs at a convenient pharmacy. All of these issues are important when choosing the right drug plan for you. Click here to view the worksheet

6. THE NEW MEDICARE DRUG BENEFIT: ENROLLMENT INFORMATION FOR HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS

This document gives health care providers information on why enrollment in a Medicare drug plan is very important to most people living with HIV and AIDS. It contains information on how to assist patients in applying for an extra help low-income subsidy and selecting the right drug plan. It provides a timeline of the steps patients need to take over the next few months to secure the right prescription drug plan. Click here to view the enrollment information