CMA Health Policy Blog

2015 Marks the 50th Anniversary of Medicare – Help Ensure its Future

December 30, 2014 at 6:56 pm Judith Stein Leave a comment

Since 1965, Medicare has opened doors to health care and increased economic security for hundreds of millions of older people, people with disabilities, and their families.

2015 will also usher in a new Congress. Many of its leaders and members will likely champion plans to further privatize Medicare. These proposals will likely surface despite increasing reports that Medicare costs and the federal deficit are declining, and that traditional Medicare costs less than private Medicare. Once again we will likely hear about plans to transform Medicare to “Premium Support” (a voucher towards the purchase of private insurance). We will probably read about proposals to increase the age of Medicare eligibility, decrease the value of Supplemental Medicare Insurance (Medigap), redesign Medicare to make it “simpler” (but less useful for most beneficiaries). We urge you to listen carefully for these and other such plans. And respond!

Since 1986, the Center for Medicare Advocacy has been on the front lines, advocating for people who depend on Medicare and for a comprehensive Medicare program for future generations. As we mark Medicare’s 50th anniversary, help us ensure its promise to advance access to healthcare. Help us explain what’s true and what’s not, where real savings exist, and when the true interests of beneficiaries are at stake. Help us ensure a real Medicare program lasts for another 50 years.

Be part of our Medicare Truth Squad. Ask us if you have questions. Spread the word – on Twitter, Facebook – in conversations! The future of a comprehensive Medicare program may depend on it.

Entry filed under: Access to Health Care, Deficit Reduction, Fiscal Responsibility, Health Care Reform, Judith Stein, Medicare, Medicare Advantage (MA), Medicare Reform, Myths, Premium Support, Public vs. Private Health Coverage, Reform, Ryan Plan, Vouchers. Tags: Deficit; Medicare, Fact and Fiction, judith stein, Medicare, Medicare Reform, Premium Support, Private Plans, Privatization, voucher.