Carper Highlights Bill to Cut Prescription Drug Costs for Seniors in Wilmington

U.S. Senator Tom Carper (D-Del.) teamed up with Saint Francis LIFE representatives and seniors today to highlight his legislation, the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) Part D Choice Act, which will help cut prescription drug costs for seniors.

This bipartisan legislation introduced last month would allow Medicare-only PACE participants to choose between the PACE Part D plan, as currently designed, or a standalone Medicare Part D plan, offering older Americans significant cost savings. Part D choice would allow seniors to choose the plan that works for them, without incurring unfairly high Part D premiums.

Currently, PACE participants must enroll in the Medicare Part D prescription drug plan offered by their PACE program instead of PACE participants having the ability to choose a more affordable, alternative stand-alone Part D plan. This bill would enable Medicare-only participants and future Medicare beneficiaries to have access to a more affordable PACE plan that could save them nearly $1,000 a month.

“As we see in Delaware, PACE programs work for seniors and their families. But we must ensure access to health care is affordable for all seniors,” said Senator Carper. “The PACE Part D Choice Act would give seniors the option to choose a cost-efficient plan that will provide them with the care they need.”

“PACE has made a significant impact in the lives of many elders across our nation. Our goal is to help seniors live independently and age in place within their home and community, with the medical and social support the PACE program provides, said Dan Drake, president and CEO, Trinity Health PACE. “Access and growth of PACE is a priority of Trinity Health. We applaud Senator Carper for his leadership to expand access to deserving seniors.”

As a senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, Senator Carper has been a leader in the fight to lower health care costs. He has repeatedly advocated for legislation that would increase access and affordability for older Americans to ensure that everyone ages with dignity. Recently, Senator Carper announced new grant funding to support organizations in Delaware like Habitat for Humanity, that focus on at-home services for older adults.