WASHINGTON, D.C. -  Congressman Mike Rogers said Third District seniors currently enrolled in a Medicare prescription drug plan, or those not currently enrolled but eligible, can begin exploring their options now during the Medicare Prescription Drug Plan Open Season.

Rogers said all Medicare-eligible seniors are eligible to enroll, or change their plan if already enrolled in an existing plan, beginning last Wednesday, November 15, through December 31, 2006. He said the plans, which seniors and their families should research carefully depending on their medical needs, are voluntary and a good first step towards providing seniors relief from high drug costs.

Rogers said while many of the kinks seem to have been ironed out of the program, he remains interested in hearing from seniors how it can be improved.

“I am pleased to see this historic new benefit has helped so many East Alabama seniors get real relief from high prescription drug costs,” Rogers said. “These plans aren’t perfect, but they are a good start for helping many seniors who have been struggling to pay for their prescriptions.”

Rogers said seniors who sign up for drug coverage before December 31, 2006, or make changes in their coverage, are eligible to receive their new benefits beginning January 1, 2007. Seniors with computer access may visit www.medicare.gov to compare plans and benefits; others may call 1-800-MEDICARE; or call any of his offices for assistance. 

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