AARP: "Many who choose the least expensive Medicare drug plan in their area that covers all their drugs could pay less this year than getting those same drugs from Canada,” according to an AARP Bulletin investigation.

The Medicare prescription drug program (Medicare Part D) has been a great success. More than 40 million seniors and disabled Americans now have comprehensive prescription drug coverage, and those enrolled in the program are overwhelmingly satisfied with their prescription drug plans. The average monthly premiums for Medicare drug coverage in 2011 will be $30, only a $1 increase from the average premium amount in 2010, according to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. This is significantly lower than originally predicted when the program was established.

Recent polls have consistently shown that Medicare Part D enrollees are overwhelmingly satisfied with the coverage they are receiving under the Part D program. A recent survey by Medicare Today reported that 84 percent of seniors enrolled in Medicare Part D are satisfied with the program.

Total Part D costs have declined by 41 percent, or $261 billion, compared to the initial 10-year cost estimate for 2004 to 2013, according to the 2010 Medicare Trustees report.

Not only is Part D working, it is exceeding expectations by providing satisfaction and patient access to life-saving medicines at a lower cost to patients and taxpayers than thought possible.