Phil Gingrey: “next week, on November 15, senior citizens across America will have the opportunity to sign up for a benefit that is…”

“next week, on November 15, senior citizens across America will have the opportunity to sign up for a benefit that is long overdue, and that is prescription drug coverage. The initial sign-up date for Medicare part D runs from November 15, 2005, through May 15, 2006. Coverage starts January 1, 2006, so the sooner seniors sign up, the sooner they can start saving. Here is what seniors should know about Medicare part D. It is available to all Medicare beneficiaries. The benefit is voluntary, so seniors will need to choose to sign up. They will have a choice of plans with a low monthly premium, and all Medicare-approved plans will cover both generic and brand-name prescription drugs and will be accepted at pharmacies close to home. There are several ways seniors can sign up for Medicare part D. Watch the mail for information from Social Security and Medicare; call 1-800- Medicare, where trained staff can answer questions and help you sign up 7 days a week, 24 hours a day; or visit the Web site www.medicare.gov. If our seniors have access to affordable prescription drugs, they will reap the benefits of modern medicine and live healthier lives. ____________________”