12.07.05
Information About the New Medicare Drug Benefits

Beginning January 1, 2006, Medicare prescription drug coverage (Medicare Part D) becomes available to everyone with Medicare Part A or B coverage. Veterans who choose to participate may sign up for Medicare's new prescription drug coverage starting November 15, 2005 through May 15, 2006. The Medicare prescription drug coverage is wholly voluntary. Each individual must decide whether to participate based on his or her own circumstances. Your VA prescription drug coverage will not change based on your decision to participate in Medicare Part D. VA prescription drug coverage is considered by Medicare to be at least as good as Medicare Part D coverage ("creditable coverage"). If your spouse is covered by Medicare, he or she must decide whether to enroll in a Medicare Part D plan regardless of your decision to participate. More information is available from the VA at the New Medicare Outpatient Prescription Drug Coverage webpage.