Medicare beneficiary knowledge of and experience with prescription drug cards.

Medicare beneficiaries used prescription drug discount cards, both Medicare and non-Medicare cards, to assist them in paying for the cost of prescription drugs. This article describes the beneficiary's awareness and understanding, sources of information, and experience with drug discount cards a year prior and during the implementation of the Medicare-Approved Prescription Drug Discount Card program. Also, it explores beneficiary characteristics that contribute to card ownership and knowledge about drug discount cards. Understanding these experiences and factors can inform future outreach and education campaigns for the Medicare Drug Coverage program.