The new Medicare discount cards became effective June 1. The discount cards, issued by Medicare-approved companies, cost a maximum of $30 and can potentially save cardholders 10 to 15 percent on their total prescription drug costs. The cards can be used to buy prescriptions by mail-order or at a local retail pharmacy.

Card sponsors each have their own enrollment forms, but in order to simplify things for consumers Medicare is requiring vendors to also provide and honor one standard enrollment form. The companies offering the card determine which drugs they will discount and by how much, so consumers should com-pare what their savings will be as compared to their present drug benefit coverage before deciding whether to apply for one of the optional cards.

United Heathcare Group, the provider of AARP Pharmacy Services, is an approved Medicare discount card sponsor. AARP Pharmacy Services will continue to honor its current discount card, both through its mail order service and retail outlets throughout the country.

A highlight of the Medicare discount card is the extra measure of help it offers to people with low incomes, that is $12,569 a year for one person or $16,862 for a married couple. They will be eligible for up to a $600 annual credit to help pay prescription drug costs in 2004 and another $600 again in 2005.

Seniors and disabled persons enrolled in outpatient prescription programs through Medicaid are not eligible for the card or the low-income benefit. Medicare beneficiaries who have drug coverage from the military (VA), (TRICARE), federal retiree health (FEHBP), or from an employer are not eligible for the low-income credit.

Consumers should beware of unsolicited calls or visits from people claiming to be Medicare officials. Medicare-approved vendors are under strict guidelines and cannot solicit individuals.

AARP has published a new guide about the Medicare drug discount card program and you can get it by calling toll free 888-OUR-AARP (888-687- 2277) (TTY 877-434 7598). In addition, a comparison of Medicare cards is posted on the official Medicare Web site, www.medicare.gov. This site enables you to enter your zip code and see a comparison of dis-counts offered by card issuers in your area. You may also talk directly with a Medicare specialist by dialing 1-800-633-4227.