Bush proposes drug discount plan
President Bush on Thursday announced plans to enact a national drug discount program designed to provide senior citizens with "substantial" discounts a participating pharmacies. The president also outlined his framework for revamping Medicare, which would be built around competing government-sponsored and non-government insurance plans - all of which "must offer prescription drug coverage." Bush said his national drug discount program, which does not require congressional approval, would begin "early next year." Under it, seniors would pay $1-$2 a month for a card that would provide the discounts at participating pharmacies. In any case, Bush said, the discount card plan "is not a substitute for a drug benefit and for strengthening Medicare." ...