The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) announced on Jan. 7 a proposed regulation that aims to allow more Medicare beneficiaries with limited income and resources to remain in the Medicare prescription drug plan in which they are enrolled without having to pay a premium.
Specifically, CMS is proposing, under certain conditions, to allow prescription drug plan sponsors to offer a reduced premium amount for certain individuals eligible for a low-income subsidy. The proposal, which would apply in regions where there otherwise would be fewer than five prescription drug plan sponsors with a “zero-premium” plan option for limited-income beneficiaries, would help to ensure there are a sufficient number of organizations offering such plans.
The proposed rule is published in today’s Federal Register and the final rule is expected to be issued on March 28, 2008.
