Contact: Kate Constalie, kate.constalie@legis.wi.gov 608-266-5490

Popular and Successful Rx drug program extended 10 years

MADISON – Protecting senior citizens and their access to affordable prescription drugs are top priorities for Legislative Democrats as the 2019-2020 legislative session gets underway. Several Democratic leaders, including Sen. Jennifer Shilling (D-La Crosse), sent a letter to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) expressing support for SeniorCare and requesting a 10-year renewal for the successful SeniorCare program. Recently this month, CMS announced they granted the 10-year extension request.

“SeniorCare has benefited thousands of Wisconsin seniors who otherwise might not be able to afford their prescriptions,” said Shilling. “By negotiating lower prices with pharmaceutical companies, our state has saved taxpayers millions and provided seniors with affordable access to the prescription drugs they depend on. Rather than catering to powerful drug companies, we should continue to support Wisconsin seniors and expand access to quality health care services.”

The SeniorCare program, created in 2002 with bipartisan support, has provided prescription drug assistance to thousands of Wisconsin residents age 65 years or older who meet certain eligibility criteria. Currently, nearly 50,000 Wisconsin residents age 65 years or older rely on SeniorCare for prescription drug assistance.

“Given past efforts by the Walker administration to eliminate the SeniorCare program and increase prescription drug costs, it’s refreshing that Governor Evers and DHS Secretary Palm are joining Democrats to stand up for seniors and fighting to lower prescription drug costs.”

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