As many of you are aware, the EPIC (Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Program) changed dramatically this year.
However, due to the outcry of seniors and advocates, New York state is reinstating the EPIC program beginning in 2013. The program will have some important changes but will be much the same program that seniors were accustomed to.
Seniors who have been on EPIC will be receiving a very important mailing in the coming months. EPIC will be sending out a renewal form that will have to be completed and sent back to EPIC. The form will be needed to obtain income information as well as to verify New York State residency. At this point, there should be no documentation required unless EPIC requires it in the future.
These mailings are being sent to allow time for EPIC to establish whether seniors will be enrolled in the fee plan or the deductible plan with EPIC for the year 2013. It is crucial that seniors complete and return these forms.
We realize that these changes are very confusing to EPIC members.
Seniors with questions regarding EPIC or other health insurance issues may contact their Chautauqua County Office for the Aging:
Jamestown area: 661-8940
Dunkirk area: 363-3865
Mayville area: 753-4471