Newsbriefs

MEDICARE DRUG BENEFIT WILL USE ELECTRONIC TECHNOLOGIES
TO SIMPLIFY DRUG PURCHASING

CMS plans to implement a new "Electronic Coordination of Benefits" system when the Medicare prescription drug benefit begins on January 1, 2006. The new electronic system will be designed to help pharmacists use the Medicare drug benefit efficiently and effectively, resolve insurance coverage issues quickly, and coordinate beneficiary payments with other drug coverage. 

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) are making it easier for Medicare beneficiaries to get the drugs they need from their local pharmacies in 2006.  In collaboration with pharmacies, pharmacy benefit groups, and other private sector organizations involved in filling prescriptions, CMS will implement new electronic systems to help pharmacists use the Medicare drug benefit and coordinate the amount that beneficiaries pay for their drugs with their other drug benefits. This electronic "coordination of benefits" system will ensure that what seniors pay at the pharmacies counter takes into account the proper level of their Medicare coverage.