(Juneau) - On January 1st, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services initiated Medicare Part D, the prescription drug program that provides benefits for individuals covered by both Medicare and Medicaid. The Alaska Department of Health and Social Services, along with local pharmacies, have coordinated efforts to attempt a smooth transition to the new program so that prescription drug coverage is maintained.

Sen. Fred Dyson (R-Eagle River), Chairman of the Senate Health, Education, and Social Services Committee, has organized a hearing for seniors and the Legislature to learn about the prescription drug benefit plan.

"I welcome seniors across Alaska to tune in for this hearing, in order to learn information that will help them make sense of the prescription drug benefits available to them. There are many choices available, and it's important to select the plan that best meets your needs and the needs of your family," said Sen. Dyson.

The hearing will be on Wednesday, February 22 at 1:30 pm and will be telecast statewide on Gavel-to-Gavel.

At any time, seniors can access information from the SeniorCare office at 1.800.478.6065. There are also trained volunteers across the state that can help seniors with this process. Contact Sen. Dyson's office at 1.800.342.2199 to learn how to contact local volunteers, or with any additional questions.

Whe: Senate Health, Education & Social Services Committee
What: Hearing on Medicare Part D prescription drug plan
When: Wednesday, February 22, 2006 @ 1:30 pm
Where: State Capitol Building, Butrovich Committee Room (#205)

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