WREX.com – Rockford’s News LeaderState expands coverage, eligibility for prescription drug program

State expands coverage, eligibility for prescription drug program

SPRINGFIELD (WREX) - The state of Illinois has expanded its prescription drug program available to seniors and people with disabilities.

The Illinois Department on Aging is urging people to apply for Illinois Cares Rx. The program provides coverage to fill in the gaps created by Medicare Part D.

This year a new law makes it easier to get into the program, so if you weren't eligible in the past it may be worth applying again. The list of drugs covered in the program is also being expanded.

"The cost of prescription drugs has escalated to the point of being unaffordable for many of the people who rely on them most, especially seniors and people with disabilities," said Healthcare and Family Services Director Barry S. Maram. "No one should have to go without the medications that keep them healthy, which is why I strongly encourage seniors and people with disabilities to see whether they qualify for prescription drug assistance though Illinois Cares Rx."

All seniors or people with disabilities are encouraged to apply now to avoid a break in coverage. The fastest way to sign up is online at www.cbrx.il.gov. You can also call the Illinois Department on Aging's Senior HelpLine at 1-800-252-8966.

Before logging on to apply you should have your Social Security number(s), amount of property taxes paid in 2008, amount of rent paid in 2008, and a copy of 2008 federal tax returns in hand.

Processing for the online application takes about four weeks, so applying now would keep your coverage active after the first of the year.

The new income limits effective on January 1, 2010 will be:

• $27,610 (currently $22,218) – for a household size of one
• $36,635 (currently $29,480) – for a household size of two
• $45,657 (currently $36,740) – for a household size of three or more