House Republican Press Release

June 1, 2005

Press Office: 860-240-8700

DelGobbo Votes to Help Seniors Obtain Free or Reduced Cost Prescriptions

State Rep. Kevin M. DelGobbo, R-70th, Naugatuck, has cosponsored and voted for legislation setting up a state program and a toll-free telephone hotline to assist seniors obtain free or reduced-cost prescription drugs.

“One of the most difficult problems for older citizens is paying for the rising cost of prescription drugs,” said Rep. DelGobbo. “Some prescriptions cost $100 a month or more, and many senior citizens depend on numerous prescriptions. This legislation will help Connecticut residents obtain information about all available discounts and free medications.”

“To many residents, the various prescription drug assistance programs at the state and federal level can be confusing and intimidating,” said Rep. DelGobbo. “This new state initiative will provide easy-to-understand information to patients, doctors and pharmacists.”

This bill establishes the Pharmacy Outreach Program within the University of Connecticut School of Pharmacy. The program will help state residents obtain reduced or no-cost medicine from participating manufacturers. It also will help educate residents about health care issues relating to the medicine. 

OBTAINING FREE OR REDUCED COST MEDICINE

The program will help residents obtain prescription or nonprescription medicine by (1) evaluating the likelihood that an applicant will qualify to receive reduced-cost or no-cost prescription or nonprescription medicine from a participating manufacturer based on each manufacturer's eligibility requirements for their voluntary drug assistance programs, (2) helping residents complete application forms, and (3) helping physicians communicate with participating manufacturers about applications for assistance.

MEDICATION EDUCATION AND INTERVENTION RESOURCE CENTER

The bill requires the program to include a Medication Education and Intervention Resource Center. The center must (1) establish a statewide toll-free telephone number staffed by individuals qualified to counsel residents on questions concerning prescription and nonprescription drugs; (2) sponsor and organize presentations, workshops, and screenings in conjunction with other organizations about mental and physical health issues affecting the elderly; (3) offer and give medication information, including drug interaction and abuse information; and (4) offer in-person counseling to explain proper medication use and discourage misuse.

Rep. DelGobbo serves the 70th Assembly District of Naugatuck in the state house of Representatives.