Ginny and Pharmacist Sally Fuller discuss patient needs

Washington, D.C., May 12 -

For the first time in history, a majority of the seniors in my district – roughly 75 percent – have access to affordable prescription drugs.  With only a few days left before the May 15th deadline, this is good news for Florida seniors. 

When Congress passed the Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit two years ago, we anticipated a $37 monthly premium; yet we are finding that the average premium is even lower at $25.  We also anticipated that seniors would save roughly $500 per year on their drug costs, yet today the average senior is saving a whopping $1,100 per year.  For those on fixed income, these figures translate into huge savings. 

I repeatedly hear from seniors in my district who are very happy with the new benefit.  Unfortunately, however, many liberal special interest groups refuse to listen.  Instead of helping seniors answer their questions to find the best plan available, they waste time touting faults that do not exist.  It is a shame that instead of working to provide affordable, much needed prescription drugs to seniors, these groups fight against reform. 

If you are 65 or over, do not have prescription drug coverage, and have not signed up for the Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit, I urge you to do so immediately.  If you do not sign up by May 15th, you will not be able to again until January 2007 and will be assessed a penalty equal to 1% of the premium for every month you did not enroll after the deadline.  If you have questions, I encourage you to call the Medicare offices at 1-800-MEDICARE, visit www.medicare.gov, or contact someone in my Brooksville office at 1-866-GWAITE-5. 

It is my honor and privilege to serve the people of Florida's 5th Congressional District and my offices and staff are here to provide you with any assistance you may need.