Effective September 1, 2011, there will be changes to the Illinois Cares Rx (ICRx) program and this is likely to affect some seniors and persons with disabilities in the 33rd district.
We understand that this will be a difficult transition for some seniors and persons with disabilities, and we want to help them find other options. Please keep in mind that Medicare Part D, not in existence when the state’s program was initiated, has been providing pharmaceutical assistance under Medicare since 2006. Some of the seniors and disabled persons who will be impacted by the changes to the program may qualify for Extra Help, a subsidy for low-income beneficiaries provided under the Medicare Part D program. Extra Help lowers the copayments and premiums for Medicare Part D enrollees. Medicare beneficiaries can apply for Extra Help, under the Social Security Administration, at www.cbrx.il.gov. You can also visit www.rxassist.org for more information about possible discounted prescriptions.
In addition, there is a strong network of Senior Health Assistance Program (SHAP) sites that are available to assist beneficiaries. Follow this link to the information: http://www.state.il.us/aging/1directory/directory-main.htm#rx-help. The staff at these sites are trained extensively in counseling on health care, and have been specifically trained on counseling beneficiaries on the changes to ICRx and their options.
Please contact the district office with any questions.
