Advocacy Groups Sue to Protect Part D Beneficiaries

Eight advocacy groups filed suit in federal court, hoping to protect people who are eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid from losing important benefits. These "dual eligibles" currently get their prescription drug benefits through Medicaid, but on January 1, 2006, they will lose that coverage, and then simultaneously be enrolled in a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan. The advocacy groups are confused that the transition will be difficult, and some people will get lost in the shuffle. The results could be disastrous for people who require daily maintenance medication to survive. The advocacy groups hope that even if there is a problem with the transition from Medicaid to Medicare, beneficiaries can still receive the medication they need on a temporary basis until the situation is resolved.