Goal 5: Protect & Support Vulnerable Populations

Task 5.1: Enforce "zero tolerance" of abuse, neglect, or exploitation of children, seniors and vulnerable adults; assist seniors and others with limited or no prescription drug coverage

1. Develop and implement a short-term (one year) pharmacy assistance program to supplement Medicare Part D program gaps from nonrecurring Pharmacy Fund balances.
2. Assist eligible Medicare beneficiaries with decisions about the Medicare Part D program.
3. Disseminate information about the RHCA discount drug program.
4. Revise and enhance Joint Protocol guidelines and procedures for coordinated investigation of abuse, neglect or exploitation.

Task 5.2: Increase utility assistance to low-income households

1. Advocate for additional federal dollars for LIHEAP for FY 2007.
2. Assist low-income households in decreasing utility costs through weatherization of their homes.
3. Provide funding (amount based on available funds) to five Tribal LIHEAP programs (Zuni, Jicarilla, Jemez, Navajo Nation, and Five Sandoval).
4. Work with telephone companies to increase low income telephone assistance program availability.