Another Medicare Drug Glitch

Almost a quarter million Medicare recipients have been sent checks that erroneously reimburse them for Medicare part D premiums they have paid this year. The checks are accompanied by a letter that states they will no longer have their premiums deducted from their Social Security Checks. The data entry problem was discovered this week after $50 million in checks had already been sent out. Another letter is going out to recipients that explains the mistake and tells them not to cash the checks. The letter also reassures them that their Medicare drug coverage will not be interrupted. Dr. Mark McClellan did state that due to the data entry problems that monthly premium deductions from recipients will not resume until October. Additionally any recipients who cash the refund checks will have to repay them. This would be deducted from their Social Security checks also. McClellan also said they will be working with insurers to ensure that coverage is not affected. This is just the latest of problems that have plagued the controversial prescription drug plan. It does not bode well for the open enrollment period that is just around the corner. The benefit that went into effect January 1, 2006 has had problems with enrollment and coverage, causing grief to many recipients and pharmacies. Hopefully this latest problem will be resolved with few problems.