AARP IN YOUR STATE

West Virginia Bulletin State News

April 2008
Rx help many – West Virginians ages 18 to 65 who lack prescription drug coverage can now turn to WVRx, a new program providing coverage for people with incomes too high to qualify for Medicaid. The program requires a $30 application processing fee, but all medications are free.

Sponsored by the office of Gov. Joe Manchin, D, the Heinz Family Philanthropies and the Benedum Foundation, WVRx is administered by West Virginia Health Right and Beckley Health Right. Its website was developed by the National Technology Transfer Center at Wheeling Jesuit University.

Patients can register for the program in participating physicians’ offices. For more information, call 304-414-5935 or visit www.wvrx.org.

March 2008
Smart money – Helping West Virginians age 65 and older and those with disabilities live independently is the goal of the AARP Foundation’s Money Management Program, now operational in three counties, with plans to expand statewide. The program targets people at risk of losing their independence because they have difficulty managing their financial affairs. Clients in Kanawha, Cabell, and Raleigh counties get help paying bills on time and keeping track of their personal finances with the help of carefully screened and trained volunteers.

To volunteer or refer a potential client to the program, e-mail wvmmp@aarp.org or call 304-340-4617.

December 2007
Road map to care – A new guide for people needing long-term care or choosing care for family members or friends offers useful information and tips such as when and how to select a facility. Developed by the West Virginia Health Care Association with input from AARP West Virginia, the "2007 Consumer Guide to Extended Care Facilities" explains admissions agreements, the ombudsman program, hospice care and sources of funding for long-term care. The guide lists facilities by county along with descriptions of services available and results of satisfaction surveys.

To request a copy of the guide, e-mail wvaarp@aarp.org or call 1-866-227-7458 toll free.