On a large bus covered with pictures of senior citizens, U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services (and former Utah Gov.) Mike Leavitt came back to the Beehive State Tuesday in an effort to educate the elderly on Medicare's new prescription drug coverage.

"This is a different way we're beginning to look at health care. This is a very significant change in our country. Rather than focusing on treating people after they're sick, we're going to prevent illness and keep them healthy," Leavitt said to a large group of senior citizens at the Columbus South Salt Lake Senior Center.

Utah was a stop on Leavitt's national Mobile Office Tour, during which he has hosted public meetings, answered questions and educated officials on the new and complex changes to Medicare. Leavitt will travel to 30 states by the end of the month.

Under the Medicare Modernization Act of 2003, government-sponsored insurance benefits will change drastically for roughly a quarter of a million Utahns. Since its formation 40 years ago, Medicare has provided coverage to those over age 65 for doctor visits, hospital stays and surgery. Starting in 2006, Medicare will offer prescription drug coverage.

"Pharmaceutical prices are going up at triple inflation. Finally, there's going to be some force that's going to start moving them down. I believe this prescription drug benefit will save seniors money because the competitive forces of the market are already driving them down," Leavitt said, noting that in the past week, the national average monthly premium for the new plan has been reduced from $37 to $32.

Numerous community officials, agencies and departments joined Leavitt in a partnership meeting before the event to learn more about educating and enrolling Utah's seniors.

"I don't mean to trivialize in any way the complexity (of the changes). It is going to be challenging," said Dr. David Sundwall, director of the Utah Department of Health. "It is going to require some homework. I think it's going to take some time on the part of those who are entitled to this and their families to help figure out what is the best for them."

As part of what Leavitt hopes will ensure a "national conversation," he urged the public to assist seniors in learning about the benefits.

"We have to reach every senior," he said. "No matter what language they speak, no matter where they live, no matter what their economic circumstance is, we have a very, very important job. . . . We need help here. We need to reach 41 million people between now and May 15."

Many seniors asked questions concerning details about the updated plan. In addition to the monthly premium, beneficiaries will have to pay an annual deductible of $250 and a $3 co-pay on generic drugs, and a $5 co-pay on brand-name drugs. Medical expenses will be covered by Medicare for 75 percent of drug costs up to $2,250 — the amount the average senior spends on drug coverage annually.