As seniors you are vital members of our community. Because you have unique financial, medical and other needs, I have prepared this brochure to provide a handy source of information about a range of available services and benefits. To request further information about specific topics, call my district office at (315) 781-2030, and we will be happy to answer your questions.

If ever I can be of assistance to you with any state-related matter, please do not hesitate to call on me.

Medicare Part D and EPIC

• The new Medicare Part D program makes a prescription drug plan part of an individual’s Medicare coverage.

• Open enrollment for Medicare Part D opens again this fall. The program is voluntary, and recipients won’t be penalized if they choose to keep their current coverage.

• The Medicare drug benefit coverage is available through private plans, including a stand-alone prescription drug plan, or a Medicare private plan, like a health maintenance organization, PPO or private fee-for-service. Medicare Part D covers brand name and generic prescription drugs.

• With New York state’s Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC) program, recipients can combine EPIC benefits with the Medicare drug coverage plan for even greater savings.

• For details about EPIC and an application form, call the toll-free EPIC Helpline at (800) 332-3742.

Save Money on Prescription Drugs

• Thanks to Assemblyman Kolb, EPIC leads the nation in helping seniors pay for prescription drugs.

• New York residents 65 years of age or older with annual incomes of $35,000 or less, if single, and $50,000 or less for couples, and not receiving full Medicaid benefits may be eligible for EPIC.

• Participants pay an annual fee or deductible, and make a co-payment for each prescription. Nearly all brand name and generic prescription drugs are covered.

• Assemblyman Kolb recommends using EPIC and Medicare together to make the lowest possible co-payments and receive necessary prescription drugs.

• For additional information, call the EPIC Helpline or Assemblyman Brian Kolb’s office at (315) 781-2030.