Medicare Part D - The Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit

Information to Get You Started

Implementation of the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act of 2003 (MMA) is rapidly approaching. Here is a quick reference of resources that provide information about the implementation, benefits, and reforms of the MMA.

General Information about the Prescription Drug Benefit:

This portion of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) website www.cms.hhs.gov/medicarereform will direct you to topics such as:

• Prescription drug help for those with limited incomes and resources
• Prescription Drug Benefit and Medicare Advantage Programs
• Pharmacy MMA information
• Prescription Drug Program Regions
• Chronic Care Improvement Program
• State MMA Information

Basic Information for Professionals and Providers:

CMS is continually working towards developing information specifically for direct care professionals. This information is designed for a variety of health care professionals, across settings. For Provider information about the Prescription Drug Benefit and other CMS programs visit www.cms.hhs.gov/providers

State and Local Information:

Social workers may also contact their State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) to obtain information on how the Prescription Drug Benefit has an impact on coverage at the State and local level. To find the telephone number for the nearest SHIP, call 1-800-MEDICARE or visit www.medicare.gov/Contacts/Related/Ships.asp

For more information about CMS and other related programs visit www.medicare.gov, or call 1-800-MEDICARE.

For additional background about NASW’s position on the Medicare Modernization Act, please review materials at the following links:

• NASW Practice Snapshot: New Preventive Benefits under Medicare (March 2005)
  http://www.socialworkers.org/practice/aging/0305bSnapshot.asp
• NASW Provides Comments to CMS about Proposed Rule, “Medicare Program, Prescription Drug Benefit,” 69 FR 46632. (October 2004)
  http://www.socialworkers.org/advocacy/updates/2004/100504.asp
• NASW Opposes the Medicare Prescription Drug Conference Report. (November 2003)
  http://www.socialworkers.org/advocacy/updates/2003/111903.asp
• NASW Seeks Changes in Medicare Prescription Drug Legislation (July 2003)
  http://www.socialworkers.org/advocacy/updates/2003/071003.asp

NASW August, 2005