Drug Assistance Hotline concerned about lack of calls; asking for help to reach Greater New Orleans area

DRUG ASSISTANCE HOTLINE CONCERNED ABOUT PHONES NOT RINGING; ASK FOR HELP REACHING PUBLIC IN GREATER NEW ORLEANS AREA

Seniors, disabled persons aged 21 years or older and their families have stopped calling the Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC)/SenioRx prescription assistance help line operated by the New Orleans Council on Aging, and counselors are concerned. 
 
"We think all this discussion about Medicare, Medicaid and health insurance changes has confused adults who need help paying for prescriptions. We know the need is there in our area, but calls have stopped," said Makitha Richards, Louisiana SenioRx Program Manager. Mrs. Richards said normally her program phones ring constantly from seniors, adults with disabilities or any adult needing help getting assistance paying for their medicines. The free service also enrolls, counsels, and educates Medicare beneficiaries.

"One call to us makes your life a whole lot easier," said Mrs. Richards.
New Orleans Council on Aging staff from the ADRC/SenioRx program offers free enrollment consultations anytime by phone or email. The contact information is mhorton@nocoa.org or (888) 922-8522 or (504) 827-7843.

“If you, someone with a disability or a loved one 60 years or older needs help with Medicare, or getting free or discounted medication directly from the pharmaceutical companies, or if you need a discount card, give us a call at 504-827-7843. We are here to help!” said Mrs. Richards

Louisiana ADRC/SenioRx Staff will need to know a person’s Medicare number or any current insurance information, effective date for Medicare Part A or B, or the individual’s social security number along with his/her list of medicines to apply for applicable programs. If you have no insurance, you should still call. Trained specialists will use this information to find the best prescription drug assistance program available.

“All we ask is that you call now for yourself or your loved one,” said Mrs. Richards. Individuals in need can also make appointments at New Orleans Council on Aging, 2475 Canal St. Ste. 400 NOLA 70119; appointments are available any weekday between 9 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. The number is 504-827-7843.

CONTACT:  
Makitha Richards (504) 827-7843                                 
Marla Chirdon; mchirdon@nocoa.org    

Media: C Brylski (504) 897-6110; cbrylski@aol.com