U.S. legislators from PA speak out against Medicare competitive bidding on medical equipment
A bill currently proposed in Congress “would eliminate the bid program and reduce Medicare spending, preserve access to quality homecare, and save thousands of small businesses,” reports the Sentinel.
Medicare open enrollment begins, premiums are changing
It’s a confusing time for seniors.
The hubbub over potential cuts to Medicare Advantage funding
Supporters of the cuts say that they can cut funding to the program to make it more efficient without effecting seniors’ care, but opponents say that that’s not possible.
Inquirer: Seniors on front line of healthcare battle
They’re especially concerned, of course, with a Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and a public option.
PA nursing homes worry about Medicare cuts
In early October, the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services adjusted its Medicare rates, cutting approximately $12 billion nationwide over the next ten years.
After Reform Passes (op-ed)
A closer look at the health care reform debate, which does not address the rising cost issue. Massachusetts health reform put in place in 2006, which polls show the people favor still has problems. The MA plan is considered a case study for congress, whose bill looks similar right now. Health care reform is going to have flaws but it is a step in the right direction.
More PA health insurance companies are dropping their Medicare plans
They’re dropping the plans that cover the poorest elderly residents.
Cost of Medicare Advantage plans will rise for some seniors in 2010
In Philadelphia, seniors will pay $52 premiums, up from zero, for the least expensive plan from IBC.
Waxman aims to help Medicare by way of drug companies
Rep. Waxman says pharmaceutical makers continue to reap more from Medicaid-eligible patients in the Medicare program than the companies would get if their drugs were provided through Medicaid.
IBC ending two insurance programs for the elderly poor
Independence Blue Cross, the region’s largest health insurer, began sending letters last week to the 36,000 subscribers in the two programs, Keystone 65 Complete and Keystone 65 Value.