CMS begins annual low-income subsidy reassessment

CMS is beginning its process to determine low-income subsidy (LIS) eligibility for the Medicare Part D program and is contacting beneficiaries in three different classes. Beneficiaries that automatically qualified for the subsidy in 2007 but do not automatically qualify for 2008 will receive Social Security Administration review of their eligibility. A third group of beneficiaries who continue to qualify for extra help but will have a change in their copayment level will receive a separate LIS Rider notice from their prescription drug plans. To help pharmacists and other providers navigate the options, CMS is hosting an audio-conference entitled "Helping People Eligible for Extra Help" on Wednesday, Sept. 26. More information can be found at the National Medicare Training Program