Proposed Medicare Cuts Will Harm Hospitals While Helping Insurance Industry, USA

President Bush's budget proposal, expected to be made public on Monday, will call for cuts to hospitals, nursing homes, hospices, ambulance services, and home care agencies.

According to Judith Stein, executive director of the Center for Medicare Advocacy, "These cuts will ultimately harm seniors, disabled people, and anyone who needs hospital care."

Stein contends that cuts could be made elsewhere instead. "The administration should cut the $150 billion subsidies being paid to private Medicare plans. These earmarks for private corporations undermine traditional Medicare, threaten its future, and burden taxpayers. Instead of giving $150 billion to corporations, give it back to taxpayers," says Stein.

According to Stein, the solution is to sustain traditional Medicare. "It is a proven, cost-effective way to guarantee access to health care for older people and people with disabilities. In fact, traditional Medicare is a model for a fair, uniform, and cost-effective health insurance program."

Judith Stein is available for comment on Bush's budget proposal.

The Center for Medicare Advocacy, Inc. is a national non-profit, non-partisan organization that provides education, advocacy, and legal assistance to help elders and people with disabilities obtain Medicare and necessary health care. The Center was established in 1986. We focus on the needs of Medicare beneficiaries, people with chronic conditions, and those in need of long-term care. The organization is involved in writing, education, and advocacy activities of importance to Medicare beneficiaries nationwide. The Center's central office is in Connecticut, with offices in Washington, DC and throughout the country.

Center for Medicare Advocacy