Joe Pitts: “one of the aspects of the Medicare bill is the market-based provisions contained in the discount drug card program.…”

“one of the aspects of the Medicare bill is the market-based provisions contained in the discount drug card program. These cards provide immediate help to seniors who need prescription drugs. By bringing transparency and accountability to Medicare, the cards will help 7.3 million people with Medicare save between $1.4 billion and $1.8 billion altogether in discounts on their prescription. An additional feature is the $600 credit that helps low-income cardholders buy medicine. Individuals who make less than $12,569 per year and couples who make less than $16,862 are eligible for the credit. That means the first $600 in drug costs incurred by the recipients will be covered by the Federal credits. More than 83,000 Pennsylvania low-income seniors will benefit from the plan. There are some 40-plus cards available. Seniors can call 1- 800-MEDICARE to figure out which card is best for them.”