Press Release


For Immediate Release - January 10, 2003
Contact: Senator Anita Yeckel - (573) 751-2887

SEN. ANITA YECKEL URGES SENIOR CITIZENS TO APPLY FOR THE MISSOURI SenioRx PROGRAM

JEFFERSON CITY -- Applications are now being accepted for the 2003 enrollment period for the SenioRx program, the state's senior prescription drug program, according to Sen. Anita Yeckel, R-Sunset Hills. Established by the Missouri General Assembly during a special session in Sept. 2001, the program is already serving more than 26,000 Missouri senior citizens.

"The enrollment period is short, so it's imperative that eligible seniors send their applications in quickly," said Sen. Yeckel, who was among the first supporters of this program. "The cost of prescription drugs has skyrocketed, and one of Missouri's most valuable assets - our seniors - deserve the state's assistance with these hefty bills."

Currently eligible seniors can obtain applications from local pharmacies, Area Agencies on Aging offices or through the program's web site www.missouriseniorx.com. In addition, applications can be obtained by contacting Sen. Yeckel's Capitol office at (573) 751-2887, or calling the program's toll free number, (866) 556-9316.

Applications will be processed Jan. 1 through Feb. 28, 2003. Beginning July 1, 2003, newly enrolled seniors can begin using their SenioRx cards to receive benefits at participating pharmacies statewide.

The Missouri SenioRx Program provides benefits for citizens who are at least 65 years of age, who have been residents of Missouri for at least 12 months, and who are not currently receiving Medicaid benefits. Total household income must be $17,000 or below for an individual, or $23,000 or below for a married couple.

Eligible seniors will receive discounts on eligible prescription medications after they meet an annual deductible. Once the deductible is met, the Missouri SenioRx Program will cover 60 percent of eligible prescription costs, with a maximum annual benefit of $5,000. The deductible is based on income.

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