October 19, 2006

Seniors Coalition Honors Pryce with its
2006 Senior Guardian Medal of Honor

Pryce recognized for her commitment to protecting and preserving the quality of life for older Americans


Columbus, Ohio– Today, Congresswoman Deborah Pryce (R-Columbus) was awarded the 2006 Senior Guardian Medal of Honor from the Seniors Coalition for her dedication to improving the lives and health of our nation’s seniors. Most notably, Pryce was lauded for her leadership in implementing the nation’s historic prescription drug benefit for seniors under Medicare.

“For more than a decade, candidates and politicians promised seniors help with the high costs of prescription medication,” said Pryce. “This Congress delivered on that promise, and today more than 38 million Americans have prescription drug coverage, and are saving an average of $1,100 a year. The Medicare prescription drug benefit represents the most significant and successful modernization to any public health program in our nation's history.” 

Pryce added, “More importantly, American seniors are happy under Part D. They understand the program, are pocketing significant savings under it, and relish the peace of mind that their medication needs are being met.” A recent JD Power report demonstrates that 75% of seniors are satisfied with their Part D coverage; 45% of enrollees report they are “delighted” with their plan.

National spokeswoman for The Seniors Coalition, Grandma Green, thanked Pryce for her leadership. “Representative Pryce takes the concerns of her older constituents to heart, and it is reflected in her work. That is why she deserves to be called a Senior Guardian. She makes certain that all seniors have the resources they need to make an educated decision with regard to their healthcare. Thanks to her efforts, seniors are saving lots of money.”

The Seniors Coalition is a non-profit, non-partisan, education and issue advocacy organization that represents the interests and concerns of America's senior citizens at both the state and federal levels. Its mission is to protect the quality of life and economic well-being that older Americans have earned while supporting common sense solutions to the challenges of the future

The ABC’s of Part D:

  • Average monthly premiums under Part D are $24, down 40% from original estimates.
  • Beginning November 15 th, any senior unhappy with their current plan coverage can change plans without penalty.
  • Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services estimates the program will cost taxpayers
    $259 billion less than earlier predictions.

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