HERMITAGE

English ‘prescribes’ drug aid

U.S. Rep. Phil English said he signed a jumbo-sized "prescription" for seniors Thursday to focus on "the issue of this year’s campaign and ... to make a commitment to the voters of northwestern Pennsylvania."

"This sends a message to every senior that I’m not just talking generally about prescription drugs. I’m supporting something concrete, and I’m proud to do it," said English, who then signed the bottom of a large, imitation prescription slip at Shop’n Save Pharmacy in Hermitage.

The slip was meant to resemble one a doctor might use for a costly prescription. But English said he was prescribing affordable drug care coverage under Medicare to seniors who want the benefit. The "refills" are good for life, the slip read.

In response to what he called "a public health crisis for America’s retirees," English pledged to vote for prescription drug legislation -- bipartisan, Republican, or Democratic -- as long as it met a series of standards.

The standards include universal access to drug coverage for Medicare recipients, who would be able to choose from at least two plans "to ensure competition ... and that you have control of your own benefit," English said.

Competition, bulk purchasing and an agency that would negotiate prices with drug manufacturers would help lower drug prices, English said.

English said a plan should include significant discounts and catastrophic coverage, or a cap on an individual’s out-of-pocket expenses.

English added that a plan should also "complement existing programs, retirement benefits and other plans by offering a flexible benefit that can supplement current coverage."