Walgreens Helps Seniors Sort Through New Medicare Prescription Insurance Plan

DEERFIELD, Ill., Oct. 5 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Seniors are getting inundated with information about Medicare Part D, the new prescription insurance program that goes into effect on Jan. 1. Many will have difficulty selecting from the numerous plans available in their area when enrollment begins Nov. 15. To help seniors sort through all their options, Walgreens pharmacies across the country will provide free one-on-one Medicare consultations.

From Oct. 11-13 and on Oct. 15 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., seniors can get help with Medicare's new prescription insurance program at any neighborhood Walgreens. Pharmacy staff will explain how the new program works, help sort through different plans and review the factors that should be considered to select the right plan. A second round of Medicare prescription insurance information sessions will be held at every Walgreens Nov. 8-12.

"Research confirms that seniors are confused about Medicare coverage and they prefer speaking to someone in person for help," said Walgreens vice president of pharmacy services Don Huonker. "As the nation's leading provider of pharmacy services, we're a great source for Medicare information. Our staff will take the time to make sure seniors understand the options and feel comfortable about their choice."

Each Walgreens pharmacy also has Medicare prescription insurance brochures and pamphlets available for seniors and their caregivers. Talk to a Walgreens pharmacist, visit http://www.medicare.gov/ or call 1-800-medicare for additional information.

Walgreen Co. is the nation's largest drugstore chain with fiscal 2005 sales of $42.2 billion. The company operates 4,962 stores in 45 states and Puerto Rico. Walgreens also provides additional services to pharmacy patients and prescription drug and medical plans through Walgreens Health Initiatives (a pharmacy benefits manager), Walgreens Mail Service, Walgreens Specialty Pharmacy and Walgreens Home Care.