“In an effort to help our seniors afford much-needed prescription drugs, I pushed to include $30.6 million in restorations to the Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC ) program in the 2012-13 state budget – helping reinstate co-payment assistance. This crucial measure will allow seniors enrolled in the EPIC program to return to paying no more than a $20 co-payment for each prescription drug. The benefit will be available beginning in January 2013.
“As the cost of living continues to rise, many seniors struggle to make ends meet, and can no longer afford the staggering cost of medication. By restoring this vital funding to EPIC , we can help North Country seniors afford their prescription drugs, protecting their health and well-being.
“Bringing back this part of the EPIC program has been a priority. I am relieved that we have been successful, and encourage seniors to look for program details as they become available. In the meantime, please reach out for assistance if you are having difficulty affording your medications so that we can explore other programs that may be able to provide immediate help.”
-30-