Drug discount confusion

Dallas Morning News: You get a card. You get a discount. That's the bargain. But the new Medicare drug discount cards aren't working so simply. Even President Bush, who champions them, acknowledges the cards have confused seniors.
But let's not bury them yet. Not when they can save folks a good chunk of change. The government just needs to work out the kinks.
The most serious problem was that initial guidelines led some lower-income seniors to consider forgoing food stamps for a $600 subsidy to help them purchase medicines. That flaw is fixed.
A remaining complaint is that some drugs come with serious discounts and others don't, depending on which card you are using. If you are a senior taking five, six pills a day, this can be a problem. You have to hunt for the right card that will get you the most discounts.
Overwhelming
Beyond the discounts question, just the number of cards -- several dozen are out there -- can confuse seniors and their families. While we favor choice and competition, Congress should reconsider how many of the cards qualify if the confusion lasts much longer. The menu shouldn't overwhelm senior citizens.
Here's one way to find the best one: Call 1-800-MEDICARE. The phone line is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Or you can go to www.medicare.gov for help.
The drug cards are a plus. Instead of one individual buying drugs without much leverage, seniors now can buy as a bloc. That can drive down prices. Additionally, the card gives seniors a list of drug prices. There's nothing like consumer information to start driving change.