Kennedy Discusses Future of Medicare and Social Security
BOSTON, MA, Senator Edward M. Kennedy addressed the Massachusetts Senior Action Council’s at their 25th Anniversary Celebration. Senator Kennedy discussed the need for stronger Medicare coverage and prescription drug guarantees for seniors across Massachusetts and the nation. He addressed the cumbersome new Medicare prescription drug program and the “doughnut hole” that leaves so many seniors without drug coverage.
“Because the Administration and the Republican leadership refused to provide the funds needed for an adequate drug benefit in Medicare, more and more seniors are facing the ridiculous ‘donut hole,’” said Senator Kennedy. “In other words, many seniors won’t be able to afford the drugs they urgently need, even though they’re paying for Medicare coverage.”
In order to address this critical problem for seniors, Senator Kennedy, along with Senator Stabenow, introduced legislation to offer a streamlined, user-friendly prescription drug benefit administered directly through Medicare. The new benefit will offer seniors and people with disabilities a real choice that alleviates many of the problems with the new Medicare Prescription Drug program.
The Stabenow-Kennedy bill will establish a standard prescription drug benefit administered directly by Medicare. Seniors who choose this option will have a modest deductible and co-payments for prescriptions, without any gaps in coverage. The benefit would also provide protection for seniors against drug costs above $5,100 per year. Everyone who chooses the Medicare-guaranteed option would pay a low, uniform monthly premium, regardless of where they live.
By instructing the Secretary of Health and Human Services to negotiate prices directly with pharmaceutical companies on behalf of those enrolled in the Medicare-guaranteed option, the Stabenow-Kennedy bill will help lower prescription drug costs. Negotiating group prices will result in lower expenses for seniors and savings for taxpayers.
Currently, the bill awaits action in the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee.
Founded in 1981, the Massachusetts Senior Action Council has worked tirelessly to promote the rights, needs, and health of all citizens, focusing on vulnerable seniors. In conjunction with labor, religious, and community organizations, MSAC has remained committed to the goal of social and economic justice. The organization has ten active chapters in the Commonwealth, 50 affiliate groups, and over 2,500 members. Among other issues, the MSAC has empowered both citizens and elected officials to act progressively on matters pertaining to health care, housing, and transportation. Read more at senate.gov
