Over 200,000 seniors already belong and are saving over half the cost of their medicines. Last year, legislation was passed that significantly enhanced the EPIC program. Income limits were increased, copayments for prescriptions were lowered, quarterly fees were reduced for low and moderate income seniors, and a new deductible plan was added for higher income seniors. These changes began January 1, 2001. Seniors who receive full Medicaid benefits or have other prescription coverage that is better than EPIC are not eligible for EPIC benefits.
EPIC is a cost sharing program.
Seniors with moderate incomes pay a low quarterly fee, and participate in the Fee Plan . Seniors with higher incomes meet an annual deductible , and participate in the Deductible Plan . Those who pay a fee or meet their deductible make a copayment at the pharmacy when purchasing prescriptions. Seniors may pay their annual fee in quarterly installments. This plan is designed to help seniors with high drug costs.