Medicine for the Elderly
An expanded elderly low cost drug program has been implemented. This program helps some elderly people get certain medicines with less money. The cost for each drug is $2.00 or 20% of the price allowed by the Department of Human Services, whichever is greater, and shall not exceed 20% of the price allowed by the Department of Human Services.
In the past one was able to receive medicines to treat diabetes, heart condition, high blood pressure, arthritis, and chronic obstructive lung disease. As of July 6, 1998, one will be able to receive medicines to treat hyperlidemia (high cholesterol), osteoporosis, glaucoma, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, thyroid diseases, incontinence and ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease). A medical waiver has been requested from the federal government and, if granted, the income guidelines will broaden, allowing both the number of people covered and the number of prescriptions covered to increase.
If you presently have a Low Cost Drug Card, you do not need to do anything to receive this expanded coverage. It will automatically be added beginning July 6, 1998. Those who wish to participate in the program may request a form from Maine Revenue Services. The card will be mailed to you if you qualify. All low cost drug cards end on December 31 of each year. The ending date is near the top of each card. You must apply for the drug card every year and you must send in your form by November 1 to receive a new card by January 1 of the following year.
The Department of Human Services controls the program. Maine Revenue Services checks the application and issues the card. To obtain a card you must meet all of the following criteria:
 | Be a Maine resident. |
| Not be getting Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payment. This is not social security income. |
| Be at least 62 years old OR part of a household where one person is at least 62 years old. |
| If you are disabled. You must be at least 55 years old. You also must now be getting federal disability payments. If married, one spouse must be at least 55 years old. Both husband and wife must now be getting federal disability payments. |
| If you live alone, your total household income for 1997 must have been $10,600 or less. If you were married or had dependents, your total household income for 1997 must have been $13,100 or less. |
For those who spent at least 40% of their 1997 household income for prescription drugs, your income limits are higher. If you are the only member of your household, the income limit is $13,250. If you were married or had dependents, the income limit is $16,375.
To obtain an application, please contact Maine Revenue Services at (207) 624-7894. Please remember that this phone number is only for obtaining applications. For more information on the program, please call the Department of Human Services, Maine Bureau of Medical Services, at (800) 321-5557 ext. 7-1818 or (207) 287-1818. Representative Joe Bruno would also welcome your questions or concerns. You may reach him by calling (207) 655-7443.
