Timely access to affordable generic drugs was achieved for all Americans with the passage of the Medicare Prescription Drug and Modernization Act on November 25, 2003. Strong generic access provisions in this legislation will close the loopholes that have delayed the introduction of generics into the market and solidify the incentive for generic drug manufacturers to challenge weak or invalid patents on brand-name drugs. In addition, the Medicare bill's tiered co-pay system will help contain healthcare costs by encouraging seniors to choose lower-cost generic drugs.