Poll: Medicare Part D beneficiaries unaware of measures to close 'doughnut hole'

WASHINGTON — Most beneficiaries of the Medicare Part D program are unaware of new measures to close the so-called “doughnut hole” coverage gap, according to a recent poll.

The survey of 1,243 beneficiaries, commissioned by the Medicare Today coalition and conducted by KRC Research, found that 1-in-5 seniors know that eligible beneficiaries who have drug spending that places them in the doughnut hole — a point when beneficiaries’ drug costs pass a limit and leave them responsible for the entire cost — will receive a 50% discount on branded drugs starting next year.

Medicare Today co-chairwoman Mary Grealy said the survey research showed a need for continued outreach to beneficiaries by the public and private sectors.