For immediate release: March 30, 2006

GALVESTON, Texas — Still have questions about Medicare Part D? Galveston County seniors who want to avoid a financial penalty have until May 15 to enroll in the Medicare prescription drug plan. After May 15, eligible seniors will incur penalties that become stiffer the longer they delay.

To help answer questions, the Galveston Community Network, the Social Security Administration and the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston are sponsoring a free, community based program to educate seniors about the new benefit and get personal help with questions.

The program is from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, April 8, at the Island Community Center, 4700 Broadway Blvd., in Galveston. Seniors can stop by at any time during the program to speak with experts about Part D. Appointments may be scheduled by those who want immediate service when they arrive.

“The Medicare prescription drug coverage has much to offer,” said Larry Jendrusch, program manager of UTMB’s Senior Services. “The average enrollee can expect to save as much as 50 percent on prescription costs. However, there’s a lot to understand before making an enrollment decision.”

At this program, seniors can learn about the new benefit and get personal help with questions. “You can assess your situation, understand your choices and even sign up if you are ready,” Jendrusch said.

Those who may want to sign up for Plan D at this event should bring:

  • Prescription bottles, or current list of prescriptions including dosage strengths and instructions
  • Medicare card
  • A list of your preferred pharmacies
  • Any correspondence you’ve received from former employers, government agencies or a Medigap insurance provider about the new Medicare drug benefit (Medicare Part D) 

Those who believe they may qualify for the Low-Income Subsidy should bring:

  • Bank or credit union statements with current balances
  • nvestment statements
  • Tax returns
  • Life insurance policies and related statements
  • Payroll stubs

For more information, or to make an appointment, call UTMB Senior Services at (409) 747-2140. Or visit http://www.utmb.edu/aging/outreach/ on the Web.

The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston
UTMB Media Hotline (409) 772-NEWS
John Koloen: (409) 772-8790 jskoloen@utmb.edu