Eligible Lawrence County senior citizens could benefit from two programs intended to make prescription drugs more affordable.

Seniors enrolled in Medicare with an income less than $18,000, or $24,000 for couples, may apply for the Pfizer Share Card Program. This provides prescription drugs for $15 for a 30 day supply.

If their total income is less than $28,000, or $38,000 for couples, seniors can apply for the Together RX Prescription Savings Card, which gives discounts on drugs provided by eight companies.

&uot;This is something that can be very beneficial to many people,&uot; Marilyn Grant Howard, president of the Lawrence County AARP, said. &uot;Many seniors spend so much on prescriptions they have trouble buying groceries and paying bills.&uot;

The Share Card Program has been available for a while at many pharmacies but people may be intimidated or not understand what it is about, she said.

Howard estimated that there about 3500 eligible seniors in the county. Both programs cover many prescriptions commonly used by the elderly.

If seniors already have prescription drug coverage, public or private like Medicaid, they are not eligible, she said.

There is a need for this financial assistance state-wide and world-wide because seniors live on a set income and any money saved is a big help, she said.

The Lawrence County AARP have both applications and will assist in completing the forms. Seniors should bring their Medicare card, 2001 tax return and their Social Security Benefit Verification Statement.

Senior citizens are encouraged to apply even if they do not presently have medical needs, Howard said. Also, the program is not only for seniors, anyone on Medicare an meeting the financial requirements can apply, she said.

&uot;Even for those who are well, you never know what tomorrow will bring, so we encourage anyone who meets the requirements to apply,&uot; she said.

Howard said they are trying to inform as many people as they can and will contact some in-home service providers and encourage them to participate. Michael Caldwell/The Ironton Tribune