Medicare Part D is the new prescription drug benefit available to everyone with Medicare regardless of income, health status, or how you pay for prescription drugs today. It took effect on January 1, 2006, and has already begun saving many on their prescription drug expenses.

For those with Medicare, the new prescription drug coverage will pay for about half your drug costs. Almost one in three people will qualify for extra help paying for their prescriptions. And, it pays for brand name and generic drugs.

Everyone with Medicare needs to make a decision about prescription drug coverage. Even if you don’t use a lot of prescription drugs now, you should still consider joining a plan. It could protect you against having to pay high drug expenses.

Or course, cost vary according to plan, buy monthly premiums will be around $37 in 2006. there is a yearly deductble (up to the first $250 in 2006). You will also have to pay a portion of your prescription drug costs. If your out-of-pocket prescription expenses reach $3,600 in a year, Medicare will then pay 95% of your costs for the remainder of the year. That can add up to a very substantial savings.

Remember, to get the coverage, you must join a plan. So compare your current prescription benefits to the new Medicare Part D plans. And, if they will save you money join by May 15, 2006, to avoid late-registration fees.

More information is available at www.medicare.gov or by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (633-4227)