Medicare Part D

A new prescription drug program called Medicare Part D has been created by the federal government. The benefits became effective on January 1, 2006. The Medicare Part D program was designed to help cover the cost of drugs for people who have Medicare. If you are a Dual Eligible beneficiary (also called "Medi-Medi") and get care through both Medicare and Medi-Cal, the Alliance will no longer pay for most of your drugs. There are a few drug exceptions that we will continue to cover. This new drug plan may require you to use a pharmacy that is different from the one you have been using. For more information about Medicare Part D, call the1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) Helpline. TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048. You may also call Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP) at 1-800-434- 0222 for assistance with Medicare issues.