back May 15 Deadline Approaches for Medicare Rx Drug Plan Sign Up Opinion Editorial by  Congressman Paul Ryan May 2006 If you think you might be interested in enrolling in the new Medicare prescription drug benefit but have not yet gotten around to it, now is the time to call Medicare for the information and assistance that can help as you make your decision. Under current law, seniors must sign up by the May 15 enrollment deadline in order to save the most under the Medicare drug benefit and avoid paying a late enrollment penalty. More than 30 million Medicare beneficiaries are now receiving prescription drug coverage, and a great many are reporting significant savings on their drug costs. Last month, AARP released a survey showing that nearly 80 percent of the people enrolled in a Medicare drug plan say they are satisfied. Furthermore, as the different prescription drug plans compete for seniors' business, it is driving costs down for seniors and taxpayers. Originally, it was estimated that those with Medicare prescription drug coverage would pay an average of $37 per month for their premiums, but due to competition among the plans, the nation's seniors are paying an average premium of $25 per month. Wisconsin seniors now have many options to help pay for their prescription medications. Those who are happy with their current coverage can keep it. On the other hand, those who lack coverage have the ability to select from 45 plans under the Medicare drug benefit and pick the one that best fits their needs. Medicare beneficiaries or family members with questions about the Medicare prescription drug benefit can call 1-800-MEDICARE or visit http://www.medicare.gov. Senior centers, the AARP, and pharmacists can also provide assistance.  Print