Opal Jaco

Seniors enrolling in the Missouri Senior Rx Prescription Drug Program must have applications postmarked by today.

The program pays 60 percent of the cost of each eligible prescription drug once a deductible is met.

An annual enrollment fee applies based on income. An individual must be 65 or older with an annual income of up to $17,000 for an individual and $23,000 for a married couple. Seniors cannot receive veterans' pharmacy benefits, be enrolled in Medicaid or have other prescription-drug insurance equal to or greater than the Missouri Senior Rx Program.

Individuals who turn 65 outside of the Jan. 1 to Feb. 28 enrollment period may apply 30 days before or after their birthday. Benefits for the 2004 plan year begin July 1, 2004, and end June 30, 2005.

Applications are available at local Area Agencies on Aging, community action agencies, federally qualified health centers, libraries and participating pharmacies. More information is available at www.missouriseniorx.com.