Through working with seniors, I am very aware of the high cost of prescription drugs. Fortunately, some programs are available that help low-income seniors cover the cost of their prescriptions, such as the Prescription Drug Program and various drug manufacturer assistance programs. However, many seniors do not qualify for this financial assistance.
The problem that remains is how to afford monthly prescriptions along with rent, groceries, utilities, etc.? One option that has attracted the attention of some older adults are the bus trips to Canada where they get their prescriptions across the border. The Rx Express bus trips are planned and operated by the Minnesota Senior Federation and funded in part by Sen. Mark Dayton.
The next trip will leave from Minneapolis Oct. 9 and return Oct. 10. Those participating will take the Rx Express bus to Winnipeg, Manitoba, and stay over one night. The cost (which includes transportation, hotel accommodations, doctor's consultation, snacks and meals) of the trip is $85 for Senior Federation members and $105 for nonmembers plus the cost of your prescriptions (which will vary from person to person).
The Minnesota Senior Federation plans eight bus trips a year. After the October trip, the next one will not be until March 2003. If you would like more information on the Rx Express bus trips, call Alicia Beskar, Health Issues Organizer, at the Minnesota Senior Federation, 1-800-365-8765 ext. 12.
You may also contact me at the Olmsted County Advocacy Program, (507) 287-1408, to get some basic information.
ADVERTISEMENT
Sandra Archer is director of the Advocacy Program in Olmsted County.
