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Stew Lilker’s

Columbia County Observer

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Affordable Care Act Saves Florida Seniors Millions 

TALLAHASSEE, FL - When it comes to seniors and prescription medication, the Affordable Care Act is living up to its name, according to new data from the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

The Affordable Care Act provides 50 percent discounts on brand-name prescription drugs once participants hit the Medicare Part D coverage gap, known as the "doughnut hole." According to the report, more than 100,000 Florida seniors have benefited from that discount this year, saving nearly $52 million.

Lonnie Scott, state communications director for the organization Know Your Care, says it's hard to argue with results.

"When people hear the facts, and the numbers, it's clear that the Affordable Care Act is working."

While some aspects of the health-care reform act have gone into effect, opponents continue to challenge its legality. The Republican-dominated state Legislature passed laws last term to privatize Medicaid - but the feds have put the move on hold, saying the plan cuts services mandated to reach the disabled.

Scott says many seniors are also taking advantage of free preventive screenings which now are available.

"Nationwide, 24 million people - or approximately half of those who have traditional Medicare - have gone in and received their free annual physical or other screening, which is now free, like a mammogram or colonoscopy."

Florida is one of seven states behind a challenge to the Affordable Care Act, which will soon be heard by the U.S. Supreme Court. 

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