More options for seniors with high drug costs

WASHINGTON (AP) - A new study says seniors with high drug costs will soon have more options to cope with Medicare's drug-coverage gap.

The number of prescription plans offering at least some brand-name drugs in the coverage gap will triple next year, from 35 to 106. That reverses a steady decline, according to an analysis of Medicare data to be released Wednesday by Avalere Health, a private research firm.

At least two plans covering some brand-name drugs in the gap will be available in every region of the country. The gap - about $3,600 - is often called the "doughnut hole."

The analysis also finds that prescription benefits will improve for low-income people whose premiums and co-payments are covered by taxpayers.