Important information for Seniors Regarding Medicare Discount Cards
Scam artists may offer bogus drug discount cards and may attempt to obtain consumers' personal information to steal their identity when offering these cards. Only companies approved by the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services may offer the Medicare discount cards to the public.
In December, 2003, Congress passed the Medicare Reform Act which authorized a voluntary program to provide discounts to Medicare beneficiaries on their prescription drugs. To participate in the program, Medicare beneficiaries must purchase a prescription drug discount card from companies approved by the Medicare program. Only companies approved by the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services may offer the Medicare discount cards to the public.
This new program is complex, but the attached information should help answer frequently asked questions. For additional information, contact Kentucky State Health Insurance and Information Program (SHIP) at 1-877-293-7447. Before purchasing a discount card, you should review all approved plans and understand the benefits of each discount card so you can select the best plan for your individual needs.
All Medicare recipients and their families should be on the alert for offers that appear to be suspicious, and you should deal only with Medicare approved companies when enrolling in this new drug prescription program. Beware of companies calling you asking for your Medicare number. Never give out your personal information to an unsolicited telemarketer. Any legitimate company will be willing to mail information for you to review regarding Medicare discount cards.
If you suspect that you have been contacted by a bogus company, call the Consumer Protection Division at 502-696-5389 or 1-888-432-9257 to report it. You may also visit our website at ag.ky.gov
The Medicare Prescription Discount Card program may provide seniors with helpful discounts on prescription drugs. But remember, be a smart shopper, read the fine print, and report suspicious activity to the Attorney General’s Office.
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