Dreier Applauds New Medicare Enrollments

March 24, 2006

WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman David Dreier (R-San Dimas), Chairman of the House Rules Committee, applauded news this week from Medicare that an additional 1.9 million seniors have signed up for prescription coverage since mid-February, bringing the total number of enrollees to more than 27 million. When coupled with the recent news that premiums for seniors and the overall cost of the program are lower than expected, Dreier said the program is overcoming its early transition problems and delivering real benefits for America’s seniors.

“The latest numbers from Medicare demonstrate very clearly - this plan is working for America’s seniors. Yes, there were difficulties early on, but as they are worked out, the real benefits are becoming more and more apparent. Lower than expected premiums and better than expected coverage are part of the draw. With the final deadline for enrollment less than 60 days away, I hope all eligible seniors are taking a close look at this voluntary program. I am also hopeful that the deliberately partisan rhetoric regarding this program will cease, so that seniors aren’t discouraged from seeking real savings on their prescription drug needs.”

Seniors interested in learning more about the Medicare prescription drug program should visit www.medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).