The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) this week revealed the plans that have been approved to offer prescription coverage in Ohio when the new drug program begins in January. Seventeen companies are approved to offer stand-alone prescription drug plans (PDPs) and 12 to offer Medicare Advantage plans (MA-PDs) to eligible Ohioans. Beneficiaries can expect to pay an average monthly premium of $32, with financial assistance available to those with modest incomes. The PDPs will begin marketing (by mail and telephone only as mandated) on Oct. 1, with enrollment commencing on Nov. 15. The Ohio Dept. of Jobs and Family Services is sending a letter to providers outlining the goals and timelines of the programs as well. Also in Ohio, nine companies were approved to offer coverage to Medicaid consumers. Ten companies were approved to provide nationwide coverage of the 42 million Medicare beneficiaries.