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Survey: AARP Members Back Critical Provisions of Health Reform

Survey Finds AARP Members Back Critical Provisions of Health Care Reform Legislation

Helena, Mont., Nov. 16, 2009 – A new poll of AARP members released today finds strong support across party and ideological lines for elements of health care reform included in the Affordable Health Care for America Act, which recently passed the House of Representatives. The bill, which strictly limits how much more insurance companies can charge based on age and closes the Medicare prescription drug doughnut hole, was endorsed by AARP.

Among AARP members, strong majorities reported that many of the bill’s key provisions were convincing reasons to support the legislation. These include strictly limiting insurers from charging much higher premiums because of age (68%), closing the gap in Medicare’s prescription drug coverage known as the doughnut hole (69%) and improving coverage for critical preventive services like cancer screenings (77%).

“This survey demonstrates what we’ve been hearing from our members for a long time,” said Bob Bartholomew, AARP Montana State Director. “Despite an inflammatory debate on a very personal and important issue, our members—across party and ideological lines—support health care reform that protects Medicare, lowers the price of prescription drugs, increases their access to coverage and protects their choice of doctors.”

While a partisan divide was evident when respondents were asked about the current plan in Congress, AARP members supported the legislation by more than a 2-1 (63%-30%) margin. More than half of self-described independents indicated support for the plan.

Other reform elements with high levels of support among AARP members included ensuring Americans can see the doctor of their choice (76%), stopping insurance companies from denying coverage because of a person’s health history (75%) and ensuring Americans can keep their current coverage (78%). Majorities of self-identified Republicans supported most of the reform elements presented, including stopping discrimination because of pre-existing conditions (66%), covering routine preventive care (64%) and allowing Medicare to negotiate lower drug prices (64%).

“The bill recently passed by the House incorporates the reforms that our members care most about,” added Bartholomew. “We’ll continue the fight for these critical elements as the Senate takes up its own legislation in the coming weeks. Our members, and all older Americans, are counting on lawmakers to reform the health care system this year.”

Starting on Tuesday, November 17th, AARP will launch a new national television ad on a mix of news, lifestyle, cable and sports channels. The ad, entitled “HELP,” demonstrates that people from all walks of life are feeling stranded by the current health care system. It calls attention to the need for the kind of health care reform AARP has been fighting for: reform that will put patients first, protect Medicare, bring down drug costs and ensure that no one can be denied affordable health care because of their age or health history.

AARP surveyed its members on key health care reform provisions supported by AARP, as well as other contentious issues being discussed in the debate. The telephone survey, fielded October 30 to November 8, 2009, was conducted with randomly selected members of AARP. The nationally representative sample of 803 AARP members has a margin of error of +/- 3.5%.

About AARP

AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan membership organization that helps people 50+ have independence, choice and control in ways that are beneficial and affordable to them and society as a whole. AARP does not endorse candidates for public office or make contributions to either political campaigns or candidates. We produce AARP The Magazine, the definitive voice for 50+ Americans and the world's largest-circulation magazine with over 35.5 million readers; AARP Bulletin, the go-to news source for AARP's nearly 40 million members and Americans 50+; AARP Segunda Juventud, the only bilingual U.S. publication dedicated exclusively to the 50+ Hispanic community; and our website, AARP.org. AARP Foundation is an affiliated charity that provides security, protection, and empowerment to older persons in need with support from thousands of volunteers, donors, and sponsors. We have staffed offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

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Added: November 17, 2009
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AARP Endorses Affordable Health Care for America Act

AARP Endorses Affordable Health Care for America Act

Since we began our latest battle for comprehensive health care reform more than two years ago, AARP has fought for a health care bill that provides quality, affordable health coverage options for all Americans and protects Medicare for seniors and for future generations.

We have read the House of Representatives’ Affordable Health Care for America Act (H.R. 3962) and the Medicare Physician Payment Reform Act (H.R. 3961), and we can say with confidence that they meet our priorities for protecting Medicare and reforming our health care system.

For the more than 45 million Americans in Medicare – 152,000 in Montana alone – the House plan completely closes the dangerous gap in prescription drug coverage known as the doughnut hole, adds cost-free preventive benefits like cancer screenings, cracks down on waste and fraud and protects the traditional Medicare benefits people in the program rely on.

For all Americans—including our younger members who often struggle to find affordable insurance (an estimated 30,000 in Montana between the ages of 50 to 64 are uninsured) — the House plan makes coverage more affordable by strictly limiting how much more insurance companies charge based on age. Americans will also no longer be denied coverage based on health history or discriminated against because of gender, and those who still cannot afford insurance on their own will receive help to purchase affordable coverage.

In addition, the House plan begins to repair the country’s outdated system of long-term care with new provisions to help people prepare for their long-term care needs and live in their own homes as they grow older.

While AARP is pleased to see that H.R. 3962/H.R. 3961 include many of the proposals that are most critical to protecting Medicare and ensuring Americans age 50+ have access to stable, affordable health care, we know the fight isn’t over. That’s why we’re going to keep working with members of the House and Senate to ensure our priorities are included in any final health care reform bill.

And, as the legislative process moves forward, we’ve let Congress and the Administration know that we will fight with the strength of our nearly 40 million members against any proposal that would hurt rather than help Medicare and older Americans’ access to affordable, quality health care.

We will continue to provide the information you need to decide for yourself what the health reform will mean to you. For information on the latest developments, go to www.aarp.org/getthefacts.

Watch the endorsement event here: http://bit.ly/HCRlive

Added: November 5, 2009
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Where AARP Stands on Health Care

Where AARP Stands on Health Care

There's been a lot of confusion about what's involved in health care reform, and even more confusion about who is supporting what. At AARP, our core goal remains the same. We are fighting for our members today, just as we've fought for them for the last 50 years. Today, that means we're fighting to protect the Medicare benefits you’ve earned. To guarantee that you’ll never be denied coverage because of your health or age. To prevent anyone from coming between you and your doctor. And to make sure patients don’t take a backseat to insurance companies.

More specifically, AARP is fighting to:

Protect Medicare Benefits.Medicare is a sacred promise that was made to seniors – because no one should be left to struggle with medical bills after a lifetime of hard work. We must protect the Medicare benefits seniors have earned and strengthen the program for future generations. We’re also working to fill in gaps in today’s benefit package, such as closing the Part D prescription drug coverage gap (the so-called “doughnut hole.”) and eliminate out-of-pocket costs for important preventive care like cancer screenings and diabetes tests.

Eliminate Waste: We must reduce waste in Medicare so we can ensure today’s seniors continue to get the benefits they’ve been promised. Currently, Medicare hands out billions in subsidies to private insurance companies. These are tax dollars that should be going to seniors’ care not insurance company subsidies. By eliminating this waste, we can protect senior benefits and fill in some of the gaps in Medicare.

Preserve Your Choice of Doctor: AARP is fighting to ensure doctors get paid fairly so seniors will have the freedom to choose the doctors they need. Without health reform, Medicare doctors will be forced to take a 21 percent pay cut.

Protect Your Right to Make Medical Decisions: AARP is fighting to ensure that all health decisions are made by you and your doctor, not your insurance company or the government. No matter what your age, your care should be your choice.

Prevent Discrimination. Health reform must end insurance abuses, such as denials of coverage due to a person’s health history, or using age as an excuse to charge sky-high premiums. Such discrimination has become a serious problem for Americans age 50-plus who need insurance, and AARP is fighting to make sure needed protections are in a final health reform plan.

Protect Consumers: AARP is fighting to stop the high prices charged by drug companies by: enabling drug price negotiation; allowing safe, legal importation of lower-priced prescription drugs from abroad; and permitting the sale of generic versions of biologic drugs – costly medications for diseases such as cancer and multiple sclerosis.

AARP will continue to scrutinize health reform proposals, to determine whether they make sense for our members and their families. We are watching this process closely and will continue to work to make sure all Americans have the health coverage they need.

Stay informed. Read the latest news on how AARP is fighting for you. http://www.aarp.org/getthefacts

Added: September 22, 2009
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Health Care Reform: Fact vs. Fiction

Throughout the debate on how to fix what’s broken about our health care system, AARP pledges to help you cut through the noise and find the facts about what health care reform means for you and your family. When we see special interests using scare tactics, we’ll make sure you’re given the facts so you can make informed decisions about health care reform.

Check out AARP’s blog this week, which is highlighting some of the most common myths being spread about health care reform and the facts that prove them wrong.

Added: August 3, 2009
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AARP Montana weighs in on health care reform debate

AARP Montana Weighs In On Health Care Reform Debate

Guest Editorial

By Bob Bartholomew

AARP Montana State Director

As health care reform moves to the front burner in Congress, Montanans had a unique opportunity to weigh-in on the debate during recent listening sessions held across the state by the Office of U.S. Senator Max Baucus. This opportunity to revamp our broken down system is a once-in-a generation opportunity. Montanans were fortunate to have a “seat at the table” on this vital issue.

AARP Montana members turned out in force to discuss issues of importance not only to our members, but all Montanans. With members present at each event, we are pleased that Senator Baucus is fighting to:

· Assure that every Montanan (and American) has access to affordable health care.

· Control the skyrocketing cost of health care.

· Improve the efficiency and coordination of our health care system.

AARP has identified additional goals for health care reform. This month, Senator Baucus will introduce legislation. As Senator Baucus and the Finance Committee hammer out the details of the bill, we are asking Congress to ensure that:

· People can afford prescription drugs -- 33% of Montanans on Medicare fell into the “doughnut hole” gap in part D, resulting in higher costs. As drug prices continue to escalate, Montanans are finding it increasingly difficult to afford their medications.

· People can get affordable health coverage regardless of past health conditions or their age.

· More people can receive care at home, (both following a hospital stay or as an alternative to going to a nursing home).

Currently, America’s health care system ranks number one in the world for expense but 37^th in the world for quality. With Senator Baucus’ leadership, we can have a world-class health care system for all Americans. As Max has said before, the “time for health care reform is now”. The cost of doing nothing is too great.

AARP Montana would like to thank Senator Baucus and his staff for holding the listening sessions on health care reform around the state last week. We appreciate Max’s leadership on health care reform and we appreciate this unprecedented opportunity to weigh-in on one of the most important issues ever before Congress.

To learn more about AARP’s priorities on health care reform visit www.healthactionnow.org.

Added: June 4, 2009
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Detailed list of AARP accomplishments for 2009 Session

AARP Montana declared the 2009 Montana legislative session a success, calling passage of more than $10 million in funding for Home and Community Based Services the most significant accomplishment of the session for aging Montanans.

View a detailed list of AARP legislative accomplishments for the 2009 session.

assets.aarp.org/www.aarp.org_/cs/misc/2009_aarp_legislative_summary.pdf

Added: May 1, 2009
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AARP Montana welcomes new volunteers to its Executive Council

AARP Montana welcomes three talented new volunteers to its Executive Council

Boni Braunbeck of Missoula has spent her career working in the area of human services. She retired from the Montana Department of Health and Human Services with 36 years of experience. A highly regarded problem solver with proven leadership qualities, she brings extensive hands-on capabilities to the AARP Montana Executive Council.

East Helena resident Mike Hanshew has been involved in long-term care services in Montana in one role or another for most of his adult life. In 1995 he was selected as the first administrator of the newly created Senior and Long-Term Care Division of the Montana Department of Health and Human Services. During his time in government, he was deeply involved in the legislative process and responsible for leading his division’s efforts at the state Capitol.

Karen Richardson of Somers has had a long career in the Montana public education system. She taught school for 33 years in four different schools, first in a one-room school in Glen. She served for 12 years on the Somers School Board and one term as president of the Montana School Boards Association. Since retiring from teaching in 1996, Richardson remains an extremely active volunteer and is currently president of the Montana Retired Educators Association.

Added: March 31, 2009
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Time for Real Health Care Reform

Montana’s senior U.S. Sen. Max Baucus (D) has made health care reform a legislative priority in 2009. In November, Baucus ― chair of the U.S. Senate Finance Committee, which has jurisdiction over many health care programs ― unveiled a “Call to Action” to remake the U.S. health care system. AARP had a chance to ask Baucus about his plan.

Q. Why did you put together this “Call to Action”?

A. I’m leading the charge for health care reform because I believe all Americans deserve access to quality, affordable health care. In Montana one out of five people doesn’t have health insurance ― that’s not right. Nationally, 46 million Americans are uninsured and more are losing coverage each year. This can’t continue ― people have a right to health care.

For months, I’ve been meeting with Montanans and my colleagues in the Senate from both sides of the aisle, to hear their priorities. In November, I issued a “Call the Action,” a blueprint that lays out a plan for health care reform. Comprehensive reform is the only way to ensure all Americans have access to quality, affordable health care. My blueprint for reform is about tackling the whole problem.

Q. Where does this “Call to Action” blueprint lead?

A. My plan is based on the working foundations that are already in place in our health care system. It builds on the employer-based system of coverage, on successful efforts to reward the best-quality care and on the dedication of smart, well-educated providers who work to provide good care.

Under my plan:

- Insurance companies participating in a one-stop health care marketplace will be required to meet minimum standards for coverage, including preventive care, while still competing to keep costs low.

- Participating insurance companies could not deny coverage or charge higher premiums based on medical histories.

- A technology-based medical records system would streamline the health care application process.

- More people who can’t afford health insurance would be immediately covered through Medicaid, Medicare and the Children’s Health Insurance Program.

My plan builds on what is currently working and provides individuals and families with a variety of health insurance options.

Q. What kind of input have you received from your colleagues?

A. My plan has broad support and the ability to move forward. And I’ve received an overwhelming amount of support for my blueprint for health care reform.

Many of my colleagues in the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives have expressed support for my Call to Action. A number of health care stakeholders have also expressed support, including patient advocacy groups, medical professionals and insurers, including AARP, the American Public Health Association, the Federation of American Hospitals, Health Care for America Now, America’s Health Insurance Plans, the AFL-CIO, the Service Employees International Union, the National Partnership for Women and Families and the American Association of Homes ― just to name a few.

Last year, I held 10 Finance Committee hearings on health care reform, both in Washington D.C.Ok? Yes – it’s OK] and in Montana, to make sure this plan is right for folks in Big Sky country and right for Americans. I also hosted a day-long health summit in June 2008 to explore in greater depth the problems facing our health system. This plan truly is a comprehensive blueprint for reform.

Q. What will health care reform mean for Montana and Montana’s seniors?

A. I’m committed to ensuring any health care reform measures are right for Montana and for rural communities. Over the last year or so I’ve held listening sessions across Montana, in addition to a Senate Finance Committee field hearing in Missoula in October 2008. My health care blueprint will help Montana’s seniors get access to the care they need and deserve.

For example, my plan would expand the availability of Medicare, right away, by initially letting people between the ages of 55 and 64 buy into the program. That way folks who can’t afford private insurance because of high premiums or pre-existing conditions would get the coverage they need.

Learn more about Sen. Baucus’ blueprint by visiting http://finance.senate.gov/healthreform2009/finalwhitepaper.pdf

Added: March 31, 2009
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Calling all AARP Montana Members; your help is needed!

There’s no place like home… help Montanans remain there as they age.

Most Montanans want to remain in their homes and communities as they age. AARP is asking the Legislature to expand home care services as an alternative to nursing home care. Currently nearly 500 people are on a waiting list for these services. Soon, the Montana Senate will decide whether or not to support Montana’s older population by expanding Home and Community Based Services – your help is needed to convince them they should.

Montanans want to remain in their homes and communities as they age.

A recent survey of AARP members in Montana showed that 70 percent of respondents ranked remaining in their homes as a top concern. And 75 percent said that helping people age in place should be a top legislative priority. That is why AARP Montana is working to expand the Medicaid Home and Community Based Services program.

We need your help

If you are concerned about the future of long term care in Montana and would like to help improve long term care options, please send a message to your state Senator about your concerns. Help ensure that Montanans have choices as they age – choices that include remaining in your own home and remaining in your community.

Make sure your concerns are heard.

Before the Senate votes on the final budget proposal in the weeks to come, it is important that they hear from every Montanan concerned about this very important issue. Nearly 500 Montanans are waiting for these services – it is time for the Senate to act.

Call your State Senator at 406-444-4800 and ask him or her to please support the Home and Community Based Services Program.

Added: March 31, 2009
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SNAP Benefits to Increase April 1

Federal Economic Stimulus Money Provides Boost to SNAP

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits will increase for Montanans effective April 1, 2009 due to the recently passed federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).

For many people, this increase will be extremely timely. “In these tough economic times, we know that some Montanans have to choose between meals and medicines. Hopefully this additional funding will help people afford both,” said Bob Bartholomew, AARP Montana State Director.

Currently, 88,548 Montanans are receiving SNAP benefits, the highest in at least the last 25 years.

The program, administered in Montana by DPHHS, was previously known as the Food Stamp Program until the name was changed in October 1, 2008, partly to more accurately reflect the program's mission to provide food assistance and nutrition education to assist participants as they move to a healthier lifestyle.

According to Linda Snedigar, Human and Community Services Division manager for DPHHS, people already receiving SNAP benefits will soon notice the extra benefits on their Electronic Benefit Transfer card. "This will happen automatically," Snedigar said.

The SNAP benefit increases vary depending on the number of people in the household. For example, a family of three who currently receive $250 per month in SNAP benefits will see their benefit increase by $63 to $313 per month. (A complete table below shows a breakdown of various household size increases.)

Income, resources, household size and allowable expenses determine the amount of benefits a household can receive.

To confirm eligibility, people are encouraged to contact their local Office of Public Assistance.

In addition, there's also good news for people eligible for benefits in the classification called 'able-bodied adults without children.' Normally, those recipients are only eligible for benefits for three months during a 36-month period. Until further notice, the time limits have been suspended. "Even people who have exhausted this benefit are now eligible again and are encouraged to apply," Snedigar said.

To be eligible for SNAP benefits as an able-bodied adult, recipients are age 16 through 59 and must register for work. In addition, the individual may be required to participate in a SNAP Employment and Training Program unless a specified exemption is met.

As part of the ARRA, Montana is expected to receive an overall total of $57 million in SNAP benefits over the next four years. The Montana Legislature is currently working how best to allocate other pieces of the stimulus money. However, the SNAP allocation goes directly into the program and is effective in April due to federal requirements.

In February 2009, a total of 88,548 Montanans benefited from SNAP and $9.9 million was paid out. By comparison, in February 2008 there were 80,525 people who utilized the program and $7.9 million was paid out that month.

In state fiscal year 2007, DPHHS issued nearly $100 million dollars in benefits.

SNAP is the U.S. Department of Agriculture's largest domestic nutrition assistance program serving more than 28 million individuals across the nation each month.

The table below indicates the benefit increases for each household.

People in Household Increase Example

1 + $24

For example: If there are 3 people in your household and right now you get $250 each month, starting in April you will get $313 each month. ($250 + $63 = $313).

2 + $44

3 + $63

4 + $80

5 + $95

6 + $114

7 + $126

8 + $144

Each extra person + $18

For more information call Snedigar at 406-444-6676 or visit the DPHHS Web site at www.dphhs.mt.gov.

Or, to track how other ARRA funds are being allocated in Montana go to www.recovery.mt.gov.

Added: March 31, 2009
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