BlueCross Has 16,000 Enrolled as Medicare Prescription Drug Deadline Approaches.

COLUMBIA, S.C. -- May 15 is a deadline that South Carolina Medicare beneficiaries do not want to miss.

That's the last day to sign up for the new Medicare Part D drug prescription insurance plan for this year, which can save hundreds or even thousands of dollars in annual drug costs.

"This is a voluntary Medicare program, but we highly encourage all of those eligible for Medicare to consider it. Everyone on Medicare can get drug coverage regardless of income or health status. People on limited income can get extra help," said Jim Deyling, BlueCross vice president of marketing.

The next sign-up period, for 2007, will begin later this year. Beneficiaries who have not already enrolled with a plan by May 15 will incur a penalty in the 2007 sign-ups. The exception is persons becoming eligible for Medicare after May 15 may enroll as soon as they are eligible.

BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina has more than 16,000 of people enrolled in its two plans, MedBlue(SM)Rx and MedBlue(SM) Rx Plus. Persons interested in enrolling may call 1-800-930-2836 or visit www.SouthCarolinaBlues.com.

Headquartered in Columbia, S.C., BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, an association of independent Blue Cross and Blue Shield Plans. MedBlueRx and MedBlueRx Plus are service marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.