The White House
President George W. Bush
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For Immediate Release
April 27, 2006

Medicare Check-Up: Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage Is Cutting Costs

Most Beneficiaries Are Enjoying Lower Costs Under Medicare Coverage

Manufacturer Drug Assistance Programs Can Continue

USA Today Claims Beneficiaries Are Losing Access To Free Drugs Provided By Manufacturers. (Richard Wolf, "1 In 5 Pay More In Medicare Rx Plan," USA Today , 4/27/06 )

Beneficiaries Are Receiving Access To Necessary Medications

USA Today Implies Seniors Are Losing Access To Medications They Need. "They are poor or near-poor, old, disabled or both. Some have cancer or AIDS, schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, spinal cord injuries or multiple sclerosis." (Richard Wolf and Julie Appleby, "Tough Choices Can Be Side Effects Of Medicare Plan," USA Today , 4/27/06 )

Medicare Provides Improved Coverage For Beneficiaries Previously Covered By Medicaid

USA Today Claims "Low-Income People Transferred From State Medicaid Drug Programs" Are Facing Increased Costs. (Richard Wolf, "1 In 5 Pay More In Medicare Rx Plan," USA Today , 4/27/06 )

Enrolling In Prescription Drug Coverage Now Protects Beneficiaries For The Future

USA Today Claims "Those With Little Or No Current Drug Expenses" Are Facing Increased Costs. (Richard Wolf, "1 In 5 Pay More In Medicare Rx Plan," USA Today , 4/27/06 )

The May 15 Enrollment Deadline Is Working

USA Today Claims Many Seniors Are Unaware Of The Medicare Prescription Drug Program's May 15 Deadline. (Richard Wolf, "Many Seniors Unaware Of Deadline For Medicare Drug Plan," USA Today , 4/26/06 )

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