How does the new prescription drug benefit affect the care of older adults currently covered under Medicare?
Since the new prescription drug program is voluntary, it will not materially affect the delivery of services under the traditional fee-for-service Medicare. Q: Are there changes within the bill that will change the current Medicare benefit. A: Yes, in several ways. First, the yearly deductible for Medicare Part B increased from $100 to $110. Second, beginning in 2007, people with Medicare who have higher incomes will pay higher premiums for Medicare Part B coverage. Currently, the premium is about 25% for all beneficiaries. The following sliding scale demonstrates how the new premiums will be phased in starting in 2007: Q: Are there changes within Medicare managed care? A: Medicare Part C, the Medicare managed care program will now be called Medicare Advantage. Medicare Advantage will provide Medicare coverage through private health plans.
