Medicare Prescription Drug Benefits: A Survey of Registered Voters Age 50+ in Arkansas

The U.S. Senate is considering expanding Medicare to include a prescription drug benefit. This July 2002 telephone survey of 509 age 50+ registered voters in Arkansas explores opinions about Medicare prescription drug legislation.

Over eight in ten (85%) of those surveyed say it is very important (70%) or somewhat important (15%) that the Senate enact a permanent Medicare drug benefit that has an affordable premium, has some cost-sharing, has no gap in coverage, is voluntary, and is available to everyone eligible for Medicare. The survey also finds respondents more likely to vote for a candidate who supports this Medicare prescription drug benefit.

The report was prepared by Margret Straw, Ph.D., of AARP Knowledge Management who may be contacted for more information at (202) 434-6334. (8 pages)