Medicare will offer prescription drugs effective 01/01/06

Enrollment date:  11/15/05 to 05/15/06.  All Medicare beneficiaries are
eligible to enroll. If you don't enroll timely, there will be a penalty of
1% per month (12% a year) that you did not enroll.

Cost:
Monthly premium:  $37
Deductible:        $250

Co-pays:        $251-$2250     Medicare pays 75%
            $2251-$3600       No coverage
                  $3601+         Medicare pays 95%

There is help available to pay for this plan.  The amount available is
approximately $2100.  The guidelines are:  For individuals with income of
$14,355 plus resources of $10,000; and for couples with income of $19,245
plus resources of $20,000.  If your income and resources are slightly
higher, you should apply for the Extra Help.  You might not receive the
entire amount but part and all deductibles and co-pays will be in a sliding
scale.  Also, household size will make a difference.  If you have Medicare
and Medicaid, you will be enrolled automatically in this program.  However,
you need to select a plan in October or November.  You will receive a letter
from Medicare.  If you do not select a plan, Medicare will choose one for
you. 

If you meet those guidelines, you can apply for the "Extra Help" by calling
Social Security at 1-800-772-1213, visiting the webpage
www.socialsecurity.gov <www.socialsecurity.gov>  or visiting the local
social security office.

Please check this website for additional Medicare information:
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/partnerships/news/mma/asianpubs.asp
<http://www.cms.hhs.gov/partnerships/news/mma/asianpubs.asp>