Helping Seniors Evaluate Medicare Part D and Save on Prescription Drugs

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As families gather for the holidays in the coming weeks, CVS/pharmacy encourages older adults and their caregivers to make family health part of the conversation. Not only is it valuable to know one's family health history, it's also important to discuss the financial aspect of heath care and best ways to manage heath care expenses.

With annual enrollment for Medicare Part D underway through December 31, now is the ideal time for seniors and their caregivers to review their medication regimen and identify ways to save on annual medication costs.

A Medicare Part D plan review is encouraged annually as plans and medications change from year to year. But with the passing of the Affordable Care Act of 2010 there are even more notable changes to consider this year. Starting January 1, 2011, drug manufacturers will provide a 50 percent discount on brand-name drugs and the government will provide a seven percent discount on generic drugs for those who fall into the Part D prescription drug coverage gap. This is in addition to the $250 rebate, effective in 2010, for beneficiaries who reach the Part D prescription drug coverage gap.

To help seniors navigate Medicare Part D plan options and find the lowest cost plan that meets their needs, CVS/pharmacy is offering resources both in store and online.

CVS pharmacists are available throughout the open enrollment period to provide patients a list of their current medications, and offer plan comparisons using the Medicare Plan Finder Tool. Additionally, seniors can access the 2011 Medicare Plan Finder at CVS.com/medicare to compare plans. The site also lists helpful information and answers to questions about Medicare Part D plans.

"There are important decisions to be made during Medicare Part D enrollment that can affect one's health care costs in the coming year," said Mitch Betses, R.Ph, Vice President of Retail Pharmacy Operations, CVS/pharmacy. "Caregivers can play a big role in helping their loved ones make the right choices, and CVS/pharmacy has the tools to help simplify the process."

About CVS/pharmacy -CVS/pharmacy, the retail division of CVS Caremark Corporation (NYSE: CVS), is America's leading retail pharmacy with more than 7,100 CVS/pharmacy and Longs Drug stores. CVS/pharmacy is committed to improving the lives of those we serve by making innovative and high-quality health and pharmacy services safe, affordable and easy to access, both in its stores and online at CVS.com. General information about CVS/pharmacy and CVS Caremark is available at info.cvscaremark.com

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