The Prescription Advantage Plan will provide members with prescription drug coverage beginning April 1, 2001. Members pay premiums, deductibles, and co-payments at a graduated rate based on gross annual household income. People under age 65 with disabilities may also qualify. The transition for those interested in joining the Advantage plan will be completed by September 30, 2001.
All members pay lower copayments for maintenance drugs.
Premiums, deductibles, and copayments will be reviewed and adjusted annually. Once a member meets the annual deductible amount, members will make copayments and the Advantage plan will cover the remaining cost. Once the maximum is reached, the full cost of prescription drugs is covered. If a formulary is used, no drug may be excluded unless its therapeutic equivalent is available. These programs are administered by the Executive Office of Elder Affairs and the Division of Medical Assistance .