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WASHINGTON, Jan 21, 2005 (United Press International via COMTEX) -- The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Friday released final regulations for the new drug coverage available to U.S. seniors in 2006.
The rule, which implements the Medicare Modernization Act of 2003, tells insurers how to craft drug-only as well as preferred provider organization health plans. It also details requirements and subsidies for employers that choose to keep their retiree health plans and outlines subsidies for low-income seniors.
The rule implements two new Medigap plans for seniors who choose to stay with traditional fee-for-service Medicare but want supplemental coverage for services not included in the basic Medicare package.
Insurers and healthcare industry groups will sift through the regulations over the coming weeks with the bidding process for plans wanting to participate in the new Medicare offerings scheduled for this spring.
The interim Medicare drug discount cards will remain in effect until the end of this year.
Copyright 2005 by United Press International.
