To amend titles XVIII and XIX of the Social Security Act to provide for continuity of Medicare prescription drug coverage for full-benefit dual eligible individuals, for Medicare prescription drug coverage of benzodiazepines and off-label uses of certain prescription drugs and biological products, for optional Medicaid coverage of Medicare prescription drug cost-sharing for full-benefit dual eligible individuals, for authorization to the Secretary of Health and Human Services to waive certain determinations denying Medicare prescription drug coverage, and for holding pharmacies harmless for certain costs incurred during implementation of Medicare part D.
Last action on May 15, 2006Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.
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Summary
H.R. 5193 aims to improve access to medications for "dual eligible" individuals—low-income seniors and people with disabilities who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid. The bill would ensure these individuals do not lose access to their existing prescriptions during transitions between programs and would expand Medicare Part D to cover benzodiazepines and certain off-label uses of drugs. Additionally, it allows state Medicaid programs to pay for Medicare drug copayments and provides financial reimbursements to pharmacies for administrative costs and unpaid prescriptions incurred while helping patients navigate the enrollment process.
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