AARP launches online resource for 'doughnut hole' patients

WASHINGTON Following an agreement announced last weekend by the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America to provide a 50% discount to seniors who fall into the Medicare Part D coverage gap – popularly known as the “doughnut hole” – AARP has launched an online resource to help them avoid it.

The AARP Doughnut Hole Calculator, available at www.aarp.org/doughnuthole, uses localized information about beneficiaries’ plans and prescriptions to help them determine if or when they fall into the coverage gap.

“More than 3 million people fall into the gap each year, and millions more nervously wonder if they might fall in,” AARP EVP Nancy LeaMond said. “For the first time, people in Medicare have a simple way to learn if they’ll fall into the doughnut hole and find ways to avoid it by switching to safe, less expensive medications.”