News Release

Statement by Mike Leavitt Secretary of Health and Human Services Regarding Celebrating National Day of Conversation

On Friday, Nov. 25, 2005, the day after Thanksgiving, I am asking Americans to celebrate a National Day of Conversation about the new Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage benefit. Medicare Rx is available to everyone with Medicare, regardless of income and resources, health status or current prescription expenses. For the first time, our senior friends and family members have an opportunity to save money on a crucial ingredient for their well-being -- prescription medicines. They have been asking for this benefit for a long time. Now it�s here. Let�s talk with them about it.

Thanksgiving is traditionally a time spent with the people you care about the most and it marks the beginning of a season of get-togethers. Set aside time during this season to make sure your loved ones know about the wonderful opportunity available to them and help them choose the plan that is best for them. Give them a special gift, the reassurance that they never again have to worry about losing their savings to the high cost of prescription medicine.

If they need it, help them review drug plan options and decide which one to sign up for. There are lots of plans available, allowing people to choose one ideally suited to them. Answers to questions about area drug plans are readily available in your community; on the Web, www.medicare.gov; over the phone, 1-800-MEDICARE; and in the Medicare and You 2006 handbook. To aid in the decision-making process, find out what medicines they take, what pharmacy they use and what drug coverage, if any, they have now. You don�t have to rush. The enrollment period continues through May 15, 2006; but coverage begins Jan. 1, 2006 for people who sign up by Dec. 31, 2005.

I will talk to my family about Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage and will help them choose the plan that best meets their needs. I hope you will, too. Celebrate our National Day of Conversation and share the rewards with those you care about most. Peace of mind for your loved ones is peace of mind for you.

Enjoy a Happy and Healthy Thanksgiving.