Does Medicare Plan D Encourage Divorce?

The Janesville Gazette reports:

Convinced that divorce would improve their prescription drug coverage under Medicare Part D, a southern Wisconsin couple ended their marriage in court but say they still are married in their hearts.

Julie Juranek, the senior benefits specialist at Community Action of Walworth County, said no couple should have to get divorced because of a Part D plan.

"It makes no sense whatsoever," Juranek said when told of the couples' situation.

Juranek thought the couple might have been given misinformation about how the plans work. She noted that with the multiple Part D options available, it's easy to get confused.

"They might not have enough information to make a clear enough decision," Juranek said.

The couple, who wish to remain anonymous, have fallen on hard financial times. Both are disabled, in their 40s and collect Social Security as their only income.

Great moments in welfare state values.