An assessment of FY 2006 implementation of Part D for Southeastern Virginia

Objective:The purpose of this study is a one year assessment of Medicare beneficiaries' experiences with Part D plan enrollment for Southeastern Virginia during FY2006. Research Questions and Hypotheses: What factors influence enrollment decisions for Part D plans? What problems have Medicare beneficiaries encountered with the Part D and Extra Help implementation processes? What factors influence decisions to switch Part D plans? Has enrollment in a Part D plan improved prescription drug access? Research Design and Methods: Medicare beneficiaries were interviewed (face-to-face/ telephone) to assist with enrollment into a Part D plan. Follow-up visits/telephone calls were conducted to determine plan satisfaction. Additionally, access to prescription drugs was examined, especially for those low-income. Results: 1907 Medicare beneficiaries were assisted with Part D enrollments, the majority (82%) have found the plans to be useful in obtaining their prescription drugs. The main consideration for enrollment was plan cost (92%) and prescription coverage (96%). Problems for Part D/Extra Help were pharmacy/CMS not recognizing (10%), or SSN incorrect (3%). Problems with plans (15%) or prescription not covered (10%) resulted in plan switching. Conclusion: Overall, prescription drug access was improved for 87% of those interviewed. Implications: The Medicare Modernization Act of 2003 established Part D as a prescription drug benefit designed to improve Medicare beneficiaries' ability to obtain their prescription drugs. It is important to determine if the Part D program is working effectively so that any necessary improvements may be implemented for FY2007. Based on our preliminary results, despite the problems, the program is working.