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HB2988 |
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LRB095 07581 DRJ 27731 b |
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| committee will
ensure proper coordination of benefits, |
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| diminish the likelihood of duplicative
benefits, and ensure |
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| that the best interests of seniors are served.
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| (5) In addition to the State pharmaceutical assistance |
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| programs, several
private entities, such as drug manufacturers |
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| and pharmacies, also offer
prescription drug discount or |
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| coverage programs.
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| (6) Many seniors are unaware of the myriad of public and |
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| private programs
available to them.
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| (7) Establishing a pharmaceutical clearinghouse with a |
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| toll-free hot-line
and local outreach workers will educate |
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| seniors about the vast array of options
available to them and |
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| enable seniors to make an educated and informed choice
that is |
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| best for them.
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| (8) Estimates indicate that almost one-third of senior |
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| citizens lack
prescription drug coverage. The federal |
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| government, states, and the
pharmaceutical industry each have a |
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| role in helping these uninsured seniors
gain
access to |
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| life-saving medications.
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| (9) The State of Illinois has recognized its obligation to |
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| assist
Illinois' neediest seniors in purchasing prescription |
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| medications, and it is
now
time for pharmaceutical |
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| manufacturers to recognize their obligation to make
their |
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| medications affordable to seniors.
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| (Source: P.A. 92-594, eff. 6-27-02.)
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