Scott & White Health Plan Gains First Nod for Medicare Plan

-Final word on Part D drug program expected in September-

The Scott & White Health Plan has received approval toward offering the new Medicare Part D prescription drug program for January 2006.

"We are committed to ensuring our current SeniorCare members, and all eligible Texans, have an opportunity to choose Scott & White for their drug coverage. Our members and those outside the Health Plan soon will be faced with key decisions about which drug plans to choose," said Allen Einboden, executive director of the Scott & White Health Plan. "We are one step closer to offering an affordable drug plan for Texas seniors."

Enrollment in the new Part D benefit, available to all those eligible for Medicare, begins November 15th, with coverage going into effect on January 1st, 2006.

While the companies and insurance plans that will be contracting with the government are considering many options, including options with no deductible, basic plans will include an estimated monthly premium of $37 and a $250 annual deductible. Once met, Medicaid Part D will cover 75 percent of drug costs total costs reach $2,250. After that, the participant will pay 100 percent of the next $2,850. Part D will then cover 95 percent of any drug costs exceeding $5,100.

As with any new, complex program, Einboden noted that seniors may need additional help understanding the changes.

"During this critical time, the Health Plan will aim to serve its members," he said, and he encourages anyone with elderly friends or relatives to become informed in an effort to help seniors evaluate their alternatives. Starting the first of October the Scott & White Health Plan will hold information and enrollment sessions to help seniors and Medicare members understand their options. "We will announce these sessions through local publications and mailings. We can all do our part to make this a lot easier for our senior citizens and Medicare population," said Einboden.

Over the next few months, the Social Security Administration will be mailing information packets out to Medicare members that may qualify for a subsidy to pay for this new benefit.

Asking questions will be important to understanding the different options, according to Dr. Craig Clanton, medical director of the Scott & White Health Plan. "When people are weighing their options they should consider the options that can help them get the maximum benefit for their dollar over discounts on some drugs."

For answers to common questions, or to request information to be mailed, interested persons can contact the Scott & White Health Plan at 1-866-334-3141, which is a free call. Another source of consumer information is at the Medicare Web site, www.medicare.gov, or by calling 1-800-MEDICARE.

About the Scott & White Health Plan

Scott & White Health Plan is a not-for-profit, state-certified Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) and is a nationally recognized leader in providing quality healthcare by focusing on prevention, early intervention, wellness and disease management. Scott & White Health Plan has been offering both small and large employers and individuals health coverage for over 21 years with a membership base that includes over 186,000 members.

For more information on Scott & White Health Plan visit our web site at www.swhp.org, or call 1-800-321-7947.

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