A new Web-based service is being offered to help Medicare beneficiaries gain access to help through the Medicare Modernization Act of 2003.

The service, which also helps seniors enroll in other health care and prescription drug assistance programs, was developed by the Administration on Aging with assistance from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and the National Council on Aging.

Administration officials said the new service -- available at
www.BenefitsCheckUp.org/rx -- is designed to help older people take advantage of the Medicare low-income subsidy.

The Web service screens beneficiaries for eligibility and then provides a link to apply online for the extra help through the Social Security Administration's Internet site.

Copyright 2005 by United Press International