In Medicare Part D plans, low or zero copays and other features to encourage the use of generic statins work, could save billions.

The private health plans that administer the Medicare drug benefit use various tools to encourage the use of generic drugs in order to lower total drug spending. Higher generic drug use also appears to encourage consumers to continue taking their medications. This study examines how different drug plan benefit and formulary designs influence the selection of generic drugs to treat high cholesterol among Medicare beneficiaries.

Medicare Part D: how do vulnerable beneficiaries fare?

Health insurance coverage for Medicare beneficiaries has been broadened by the addition of a prescription drug benefit--Medicare Part D. For some beneficiaries, however, particularly those who must make the transition from Medicaid to Medicare prescription coverage, the new program can be confusing or disruptive and result in delays in getting drugs or in adverse health outcomes. In the fall of 2006, well after Part D was implemented, counselors, attorneys, program managers, health professionals, and others who have direct knowledge of beneficiaries' experiences identified a continuing need for accurate, easy-to-use information about private drug plan options and procedures associated with using the plans.

Medicare Part D: state and local efforts to assist vulnerable beneficiaries.

Medicare Part D became available in 2006, offering millions of Americans the potential for improved access to medications. Certain aspects of the program have been problematic or confusing for vulnerable beneficiaries, but creative efforts across the country have helped individuals obtain and use the Part D benefit. Coalitions supply the information, training, and support that community partners need for outreach, education, and enrollment activities.

How asset tests block low-income Medicare beneficiaries from needed benefits.

The Medicare Savings Programs and Medicaid help elderly Medicare beneficiaries with their cost-sharing responsibilities and provide much-needed additional benefits. But 40 to 50 percent of eligible low-income Medicare beneficiaries are not enrolled in the Medicare Savings Programs. One persistent barrier is the use of asset tests, which greatly complicate the application process for applicants and program staff.