what do you think of this new medicare bill?

Question

this has been so confusing to the older people. some are trying to get off of one to save on another.it is really making them sick with worrry.

Answer 1

The 1000-page-plus bill was kept in a locked closet in October-November 2003 for folks in Congress to review. (No kidding here!) Then it was passed in early December 2003. It was passed only after the vote had gone the "wrong way" and the vote that was supposed to be open for only 15-20 minutes was left open for hours until enough arms were twisted for the vote to go "the right way."

While some very-low income seniors may receive some helpful benefits with the costs of their prescription drugs, the big winners are the insurance companies and the pharmaceutical industry.

Then, the implementation of the whole thing was terrible! The folks who wrote the law put this initiative on the "fast track." The whipper-snappers designed the sign up so that everything could be done over the internet and toll-free phone numbers--not a bad plan except the computers didn't work. (There are still super- major problems!) and the most vulnerable and confused older folks aren't exactly computer saavy...even if they have one available. The major thing that was over-looked in implementation is that most older people really want--and need--to take time to think about a decision like spending money for prescription drug insurance. Real live people can be helpful in "talking through" this sort of decision with seniors and their families, however, even though CMS spent multi-billions on advertising, computer techs and 800-number answerers, they did not make one-on-one assistance to older Americans a priority to be funded.

Many frustrated and worried seniors and their families received --and can still get--help from their local area agency on aging. If you or your older friend or family member are running into difficulty with this benefit, you should consider calling them. Area agencies on Aging are national--there is one serving every community, so the number should be listed in your local phone book. You can also call 1-800-677-1116 toll-free find the one serving your county. Most are not getting any significant money from CMS to help with all the Medicare Part D problems, yet, you will likely find the people there friendly and very helpful.

If you like the help you receive from your local area agency on aging, please let your members of Congress know. These agencies don't have big bucks in their budgets for campaign contributions...

Answer 2

Sucks

Answer 3

I think its a joke. Even the dumb *** that came up with it don't understand it or anyone else for that matter. What a stupid plan who is it helping? Why coulden they just leave it alone. I will tell you why . Because if something is working out stupid government can't stand to see it work so they just have to mess it up!!!!

Answer 4

I'm 70 and in the Army we called SNAFU & a Cluster F*ck.
It is just another way to rip old American off. It hasn't helped me one oiota.

Answer 5

Hasn't helped my grandparents one bit. The fees balance out to be the same cost.

Answer 6

The only people it helps are the insurance company stock holders and executives if they get stock options.