Statement by Cheryl Matheis, AARP Director of Health Strategy, on New Medicare Drug Benefit Enrollment Numbers

Source: AARP Press Center | April 20, 2006

AARP is encouraged that over the last thirty days, 1.7 million Americans have enrolled in Medicare drug plans, bringing the total number of older Americans with Medicare supported prescription drug coverage to just over 30 million. As the May 15th enrollment deadline for drug coverage in 2006 quickly approaches, AARP is continuing to provide our members with the information they need to make wise decisions about their new plan options.

AARP is also reaching out to more limited-income beneficiaries through advertising and the media, community collaborations, and Medicare education events.

We are working hard to make sure that everyone understands how the program works, and how, in particular, limited-income beneficiaries can apply for "extra help."

With the opportunity for millions of Americans to save on their prescription drug costs, AARP wants to help all who will benefit from the new Medicare plans to enroll. At the same time, AARP will continue to work to improve the coverage for the future, as well as to lower the cost of drugs for the program and for all Americans.