Senator J. Kalani English
Majority Floor Leader
State Capitol, Room 205
Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
Phone: (808) 587-7225
E-mail: english1@capitol.hawaii.gov

Contact: Kalei Keolanui, Communications Specialist
Phone: 586-6812

PRESS RELEASE
February 7, 2002

Senate Majority Floor Leader J. Kalani English supports Pfizer program helping low income seniors obtain prescription drugs and other health benefits

Senate Majority Floor Leader J. Kalani English (D—Wailuku, Kahului, Upcountry Maui) today expressed support for a new initiative by Pfizer Inc. providing prescription medicines and other health benefits to seven million low-income elderly Americans. The new Pfizer for Living Share Card program enables needy seniors to buy a 30-day supply of medicines for a simple, flat fee of $15 per prescription.

"I strongly support this ground-breaking Pfizer initiative providing essential prescription drugs to the millions of elderly most in need," emphasized Senator English. "We are pleased to support Pfizer's grassroots campaign to reach out to eligible seniors and its efforts to enroll as many as possible. The kupuna (elders) of Hawaii will definitely benefit from this program."

To be eligible for the card, you must be:

• 65 years old or older
• Have individual reported annual gross income below $18,000, or joint reported gross income below $24,000 and
• l Have no other prescription coverage.

Interested citizens can call 1-800-717-6005 today to receive an application, or visit www.pfizerforliving.com for additional information.

The Share Card provides immediate access to Pfizer medicines, including therapies for many diseases that are chronic and often untreated among the elderly, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, Alzheimer's disease and depression. It also provides health information and guidance on how seniors can apply for health benefits through existing programs.

"While we, as legislators, continue to work to expand prescription drug coverage for our kupuna, Pfizer has taken an important step in bridging this gap in health care for low-income seniors," added Senator English.

This program is endorsed by Health and Human Services Secretary Tommy Thompson, as well as many governors and legislators. Many national advocacy organizations have also expressed support for the program, including AARP, The National Council on Aging, The United Seniors Association, The Latino Coalition, The National Coalition of Hispanic Health and Human Services Organization, The National Organization on Disability, The American Diabetes Association, and The National Mental Health Association.

END

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