Overview - Medicare Drug Coverage

Medicare Modernization Act of 2003 (MMA). The MMA is the federal law establishing Medicare Drug Coverage. This link provides an electronic version of the law. 

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)

On January 21, 2005, CMS released the final regulations to implement two sections of the Medicare Modernization Act.

• Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit (CMS-4068- F)
• Establishment of the Medicare Advantage Program (CMS-4069-F)

CMS also releases guidances and updates that describe the everyday operation of Medicare Drug Coverage.

• CMS Final Guidances for 2007
• CMS Updates for 2007

Social Security Administration (SSA)

SSA is responsible for administering the low-income subsidy (extra help) for Medicare Drug Coverage. 

• Final SSA Rules on the Low-Income Subsidy 

SSA also releases information that describes the everyday operation of the low-income subsidy.

• Help With Prescription Drug Costs. This SSA website provides information for consumers about the low-income subsidy, links to the online application for the subsidy, and information about consumers' appeals rights regarding the subsidy.
• SSA's Program Operations Manual System: Eligibility for Subsidized Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage