The Senior Federation's Rx Savings program and Health Plan Information Center counselors have been asked, "Are you still importing prescription drugs from Canada now that we have Part D?' The answer is Yes! 

The MnSF Rx savings oversight committee that monitors the Rx Savings Program anticipated need for the importation program would change with Part D but weren't quite sure how. The program has seen a slight dip in the number of prescriptions filled, but is still available and still providing substantial cost savings to members who use it. 

Many members who have evaluated the Part D program have decided to continue to use the Senior Federation program to import drugs from Canada or get discounted generics from MnSF's local generic provider. Members who do this should be aware that should they wish to sign up for Part D at a later time they will most likely face an increased premium penalty that they will pay for the entire time they have Part D. It is recommended everyone evaluate the Part D program and their respective situation before deciding whether to enroll or not enroll. Health Plan Information Center counselors are available Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. to assist with this evaluation. 

Many who have signed up for Part D are using the MnSF program to fill gaps in their Part D plan - to get medications that not on their plan formulary and to purchase prescriptions through the program when they reach the donut hole.  Individuals with Part D plans that continue to import drugs from outside of the country need to keep in mind that the cost of drugs obtained outside of the United States does not count towards out-of-pocket limits of Part D plans. 

The Senior Federation Health Plan Information Center can be reached at 651/783-5045 or toll free at 866/783-5045.