The nation is about to launch important prescription drug coverage that could help millions shoulder the skyrocketing costs of healthcare — if they find out about it and follow the relatively simple steps to claim it.

This fall, Medicare will start enrolling America's seniors in its new drug benefit program. A scale of premiums and deductibles has been set up based on income, with the neediest seniors qualifying for an extra assist in covering the cost of prescription drugs.

Of course, no one can truly tell how well the program will work until after the benefit takes effect Jan. 1, but it appears to be a worthwhile investment with benefits to consumers and sensible public policy.

Making sure people have access to the right medications can prevent or delay the onset of acute conditions that are far more expensive to manage, requiring surgeries and other invasive procedures. The money being spent today to aid the Medicare drug benefit will save taxpayers from an even larger financial burden of dealing with serious illnesses that require more costly treatments.

Seniors also should be encouraged to sign up for the benefit now — even if they are in good health— rather than waiting until their need for prescription drugs escalates. And there's a limited enrollment period each year, but premiums and deductibles rise precipitously if those who are eligible postpone their enrollment. It's impossible to predict the course of physical wellness, so it's unwise to leave too much to chance.

To its credit, Medicare has established various means to help in sorting through the blizzard of marketing brochures that are sure to swirl around them. Starting Oct. 13, those comfortable in the online world can find information on each plan on the Web (www.medicare.gov).

Those who prefer to set up a personal interview or get advice over the phone can pick up a phone and call Sage PLUS, 586-7299 on O'ahu or (888)-875-9229 (toll-free from the Neighbor Islands or Mainland).

A face-to-face appointment can be booked through this agency, although seniors probably have to leave their number for a callback. Some phone advice is available 24-7 from Medicare itself, at (800)-MEDICARE (633-4227).

Federal authorities have made a good start with their outreach effort, but it's up to the seniors' network of family and other loved ones to help close the information gap. Taking care of elders is a time-honored tradition in the Islands, and it is above all a family concern.