Easley, Michael. Press Release, 2007-06-01, Gov. Easley Announces NCRx Prescription Drug Program Now Taking Applications Year Round: Most Medicare Part D Programs Accept Assistance Program For Low Income Seniors

Michael F. Easley Governor State of North Carolina Office of the Governor For Release: IMMEDIATE Contact: Renee Floffman Date: June 1,2007 Phone: 919/733-5612 GOV. EASLEY ANNOUNCES NCRX PRESCRIPTION DRUG PROGRAM NOW TAKING APPLICATIONS YEAR ROUND Most Medicare Part D Programs Accept Assistance Program for Low Income Seniors RALEIGH - Gov. Mike Easley announced today that NCRx, North Carolina’s program to help low-income seniors pay Medicare Part D insurance premiums, is now taking applications year round, not just during the Medicare open enrollment period. In addition, 75% of the insurance companies that cover Medicare Part D have agreed to participate in NCRx. “NCRx helps seniors pay their premiums so they can get the medicines they need to stay healthy,” said Easley. “In addition to providing financial assistance, NCRx will also help seniors navigate the complicated federal system so they select the best program for their health care needs.” Letters and applications are being mailed to low income seniors to advise them of recent changes in NCRx that widened the eligibility requirements. • North Carolina seniors may now enroll in NCRx throughout the year, not just during Medicare Part D open enrollment from November 15 th thru December 3 1st; • NCRx is now open to seniors who have enrolled in a Medicare Advantage - Prescription Drug Plan that participates with NCRx; • NCRx is now open to seniors with incomes up to $17,868 for individuals and $23,958 for married couples; and • NCRx is now open to seniors with assets up to $20,412 or less for individuals and $30,618 or less for married couples. North Carolina seniors who meet the NCRx eligibility criteria can qualify for up to $1 8 in monthly assistance toward their Medicare Prescription Drug Plan premium. NCRx will pay this assistance directly to 33 different Medicare prescription plans that participate with NCRx. The senior is responsible for any remaining monthly premium. Seniors or their caregivers can contact the NCRx call center at 1-888-488-NCRX (6279) for help completing the NCRx application, a list of the Medicare prescription plans that participate in NCRx or help in selecting the Medicare prescription drug plan that is best for them. A downloadable application for the program and additional information is also available at the NCRx website, www.ncrx.gov. ### Governor's Press Office State Capitol. Raleigh. NC 27603-8001 (919) 733-5612 - Toll Free 1-800-662-7005 FAX (9 19) 733-5 166