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Nixon Seeks Reauthorization of Missouri Prescription Program

By Julie Bierach, St. Louis Public Radio

http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/kcur/local-kcur-940320.mp3

St. Louis, Missouri – Governor Jay Nixon is calling upon the General Assembly to reauthorize Missouri Rx, the state program that provides prescription drug assistance to low-income seniors and people with disabilities.

There are 207,000 Missourians enrolled in the program. It was established in 2006 when Medicare Part D took effect.

It pays 50% of all out-of-pocket costs for medications that are covered by a senior's medicare Part D plan.

Governor Nixon wants to see the program reauthorized. He says for some seniors living on a fix income the cost of prescriptions can be a real challenge.

For some seniors skyrocketing prescriptions costs lead to unthinkable decisions," says Nixon. "Like choosing between filling this month's prescriptions and putting food on the table. That's a choice no senior should be forced to make."

If not reauthorized, Missouri Rx will expire in August of 2011.

Republican Representative David Sater, who is chair of the House Healthcare Policy Committee and a pharmacist, says he agrees that the program should be reauthorized for another five years. He says the program has been a "blessing for senior citizens to help pay for prescription drugs."

 

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