SeniorCare: It Could Save You Money

SeniorCare is the state of Wisconsin's prescription drug program that provides low-income seniors with state sponsored prescription benefits. Eligibility is based on income and age (65 and older) and there are three levels of eligibility:

• Level One – For seniors whose annual income is $14,368 and under for an individual or $19,392 for a couple. You must complete the application process, including the $30 application fee. Prescription medications will be provided with a co-pay of $5 for generic drugs and $15 for brand names.
   
• Level Two – For seniors whose annual income is between $14,369 and $21,552 for individuals and between $19,393 and $29,088 per couple. You must complete application process, including the $20 application fee. You will have a $500 deductible per person; prescriptions will be available at a discounted rate. After you have met the $500 deductible, you will receive your generic drugs for a $5 co-pay and brand name drugs for a $15 co-pay.
   
• Level Three – For seniors whose annual income is above the $21,553 for an individual or $29,089 for a couple. You will have a spend-down equal to the difference between your annual income and the amount stated in the prior sentence. Once you have met the spend-down, you will have the $500 deductible where you will receive your medications at the discounted rate. After you have met the deductible, you will then receive your medications for the $5 (generic) and $15 (brand name) co-pay.

SeniorCare will pay for the generic form of prescription, unless a brand name is medically necessary. Over-the-counter drugs—i.e. vitamins, aspirin, etc.—are not covered, even if prescribed.

More than 86,000 seniors have applied and have been deemed eligible for SeniorCare over the past eight months. It's estimated that there are more than 100,000 people who would be eligible. One Milwaukee County resident—who takes a total of six medications—reported a personal savings of about $235 per month. Prior to SeniorCare her medication expenses were about $300 per month, and under the program they are now $65 per month. For more information please call toll free 1-800-657-2038 or the Milwaukee County Department on Aging at 289-6874.

IMPORTANT NOTE: For SeniorCare participants who will be renewing to continue receiving benefits, only the renewal form should be used to renew participation. A current participant using the standard or first time SeniorCare application could have their benefits held up. To receive a renewal form please call 1-800-657-2038.