Back to Annual Meeting Page		American Public Health Association 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition December 10-14, 2005 Philadelphia, PA

Abstract #110129

Ann Marie Kopitzke, MPA¹, Karen Karlowicz, RN, MSN, EdD², and Stacey B. Plichta, ScD¹. (1) College of Health Sciences, Old Dominion University, 129 Spong Hall, Norfolk, VA 23529, 757-683-4989, amkopitz@odu.edu, (2) School of Nursing, Old Dominion University, 4608 Hampton Blvd., Room 348 Technology Building, Norfolk, VA 23529

Background: The CMS enrollment efforts for the Medicare Approved Drug Discount Card (MDC) program involve provision of assistance through local coalitions and volunteers to assist with enrollment efforts. Special attention is paid to enrolling low-income and rural seniors who have decreased access due to income and location. A partnership of these stakeholders was formed to pilot this initiative in identified low-income and rural areas of Hampton Roads, Virginia.

Program, Problem, and Activities: The Medicare Approved Drug Discount Card (MDC) is expected to improve access to prescription medications for seniors through discounted rates. The affordability of prescriptions for seniors on fixed incomes with special emphasis on low-income and rural seniors has been a growing problem. Through enrollment in MDC, and receipt of the applicable annual credits, beneficiaries may reduce affordability barriers. By improving access, may improve health outcomes by reducing preventable emergency room visits or health care provider calls.

Methods: Assistance with the enrollment and education about of prescription options to aid seniors. A self-administered mail survey will be sent to enrollees to assess satisfaction levels and explore other access issues.

Results: The MDC program is in the enrollment phase. Results are pending.

Conclusions: The program is anticipated to increase the percentage of low-income and rural elderly obtaining their medications through increased access.

Learning Objectives:

• Describe the fundamentals of the Medicare Approved Drug Discount Card program and the enrollment process.
• Understand the policy limitations and methods for overcoming enrollment barriers. Describe the value of coalitions in community projects.

Keywords: Access to Health Care, Elderly

Related Web page: www.cms.hhs.gov/mmu/

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

I wish to disclose that I have NO financial interests or other relationship with the manufactures of commercial products, suppliers of commercial services or commercial supporters.