Poll: Medicare prescription drug program popular

Here's one program candidates aren't likely to mess with: The Medicare prescription drug plan.

A new poll sponsored by a health care group shows that 90% of seniors are satisfied with the program known as Medicare Part D, and approval has constantly risen since the plan came on line in 2006.

"Nearly seven years later, 9 in 10 Medicare beneficiaries have prescription drug coverage," says the poll. "Satisfaction among those with Medicare Part D has grown 12 points from 78% to 90%. Most are very satisfied with their coverage and say their plan offers excellent value, reasonable costs, and convenience."

The survey was sponsored by Medicare Today, an initiative of the Healthcare Leadership Council.

The pollster say that seniors "feel peace of mind" with the prescription drug program, and regard it as "a safety net."

Neither President Obama nor Mitt Romney have criticized Medicare Part D, though Obama has noted that the Bush administration pushed the plan without new revenues to help finance it.

Among other poll findings show that without Part D:

-- 84% report that out-of-pocket drug costs would be higher.

-- 61% would be unable to fill all of their prescriptions.

-- 53% would be more likely to cut back or stop taking medicine altogether.

The survey did note that seniors could be better informed about the open enrollment plan for Medicare Part D that starts Oct. 15.

Said the poll:

"Each year during open enrollment, seniors have the opportunity to assess their situation, compare plans, and choose one that best meets their needs. This year, most say they will not shop around during open enrollment because they are satisfied. Some, however, find comparing plans difficult. There are opportunities to raise awareness of Medicare's Plan Finder tool and other sources of help."