AARP Online Community: AARPny - My Journals & Blogs

NYers Concerned About Keeping Healthcare

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 28, 2008

CONTACT:

Stacey Kratz, (212) 407-3708

NEW YORKERS AGE 50-64 CONCERNED ABOUT KEEPING HEALTH CARE COVERAGE, SAYS AARP SURVEY

-- Candidates’ Stands on Health Care Important to New Yorkers’ Voting On Super Tuesday --

BUFFALO, NY – Sixty-five percent of New Yorkers aged 50-64 say they are concerned about maintaining their health care coverage and 61 percent worry about being able to afford their prescription drugs in the next two years, according to an AARP poll released today.

Concerns about health costs have led many New Yorkers to take unhealthy and drastic measures to save money including not seeing a doctor (one in six), not filling a prescription (one in five), taking less medicine than prescribed (two in five), or cutting back on food, fuel, or electricity (one in six).

“Health care costs are skyrocketing and, overwhelmingly, New Yorkers are telling us that health care and prescription drug coverage are critical issues that we must address, especially in Buffalo which has the highest rate of uninsured adults age 50-64 in the state,” said AARP New York State Director Lois Aronstein. Fourteen percent of Buffalo residents are uninsured, compared with nine percent in major cities across New York State (Scarborough Consumer Survey-2006).

When asked about their specific worries, cost was the overriding issue. Nearly half are extremely or very worried about having to pay more for their current health care, an increase in their health insurance premiums, or paying more for their family’s health care. Notably, one third report that they are worried about not being able to change jobs or retire due to their need to maintain health insurance coverage.

The AARP poll, “The State of Health Care: A Survey of New York Residents Age 50-64”, reports that 67% of respondents are more likely to vote for a candidate who supports giving all New Yorkers access to quality, affordable, and adequate health care coverage.

“Too many Americans are just one major illness or injury away from financial ruin due to the skyrocketing costs of the current system,” said Aronstein. “With the New York Primary almost a week away, health care and financial security could determine how New Yorkers select the presidential candidates on February 5^th.”

To provide voters with information on where the candidates stand on health care and financial security, AARP’s Divided We Fail Statewide Presidential Primary Tour is visiting Buffalo on Monday, January 28, to arm Buffalo residents with the presidential candidates’ statements on health care and financial security.

“New Yorkers are telling the candidates with a resounding voice that the gridlock needs to end now,” said Aronstein. “They are concerned about their economic future and how they will pay for their health care needs. They are worried that their children and grandchildren will not have an adequate quality of life when they retire.”

As the Divided We Fail Presidential Primary Tour visits cities throughout the state from January 24 to February 5, AARP is distributing “In Their Own Words,” a guide that contains the candidates’ own words on the issues of health care and financial security. The statements listed in the guide come from candidate websites, speeches, books, campaign literature, and from candidate answers to questions at events around the country; statements are organized by Divided We Fail platform principles.

To view “In Their Own Words” online, visit www.dividedwefail.org.

The State of Health Care: A Survey of New York Residents Age 50-64 and more information on the Divided We Fail Presidential Primary Tour can be found at: www.aarp.org/ny.

It's time we ensure health and long-term financial security for all. That's why AARP, Business Roundtable, the Service Employees International Union and the National Federation of Independent Businesses, are leading Divided We Fail, an initiative to give voice to millions of Americans who are tired of letting Washington gridlock stand in the way of affordable, quality health care and long-term financial security – the most pressing domestic issues faction our nation. Common sense solutions are needed, and everyone – individuals, businesses and government – has a role and a responsibility in ensuring health and financial security for all. Go to www.dividedwefail.org to learn more.

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, published bimonthly; AARP Bulletin, our monthly newspaper; AARP Segunda Juventud, our bimonthly magazine in Spanish and English; NRTA Live & Learn, our quarterly newsletter for 50+ educators; and our website, http://www.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: February 19, 2008
Views: 572 | Comments: 0 | Bookmarks: 0

AARP Divided We Fail in Rochester

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 25, 2008

CONTACT: Stacey Kratz, (212) 407-3708

AARP DIVIDED WE FAIL PRESIDENTIAL PRIMARY TOUR STOPS IN

--Health and Financial Security Issues May Be Key to New York Primary, says, AARP Poll--

ROCHESTER, NY - AARP’s Presidentital Primary Tour stops in Rochester today, arming New Yorkers with the 2008 presidential candidates’ statements on health care and financial security. With the New York primary less than two weeks away, the issue of healthcare and financial security could help determine how voters choose a presidential candidate on February 5th.

Making its way across New York state, the Divided We Fail Presidential Primary Tour visited the Mall at Greece Ridge, the Henrietta Senior Center, and Monroe Community College to provide voters of all ages with information about the presidential candidates’ positions on healthcare and financial security.

According to a recent survey conducted by AARP that polled New Yorkers age 18+, voters are closely watching candidates’ positions on the issues of health care and financial security. Fifty-two percent of respondents stated that they would change their choice of candidate as they learn more about where the candidates stand on health care and financial security issues.

“Candidates’ positions on the issues of health care and financial security are important to the outcome of the New York State Presidential Primary,” said Lois Aronstein, AARP New York State Director. “

Nine in ten (91%) New Yorkers stated that where the candidates stand on the issue of health care would be a key factor in determining their vote. Ninety-five percent of those surveyed said that the candidates’ position on financial issues, such as Social Security, incentives for savings and investment, and pension protection, would influence their vote. When asked which candidates best addressed the issue of financial security, 42% of Democrats and 50% of Republicans said they did not have enough information to make a judgment.

“Health care and lifetime financial security are issues that cut across party lines,” stated Aronstein. “Potential voters from both parties are saying they just don’t know enough about the candidates positions on these two vital issues. With 2.6 million New Yorkers uninsured and the average family having less than $35,000 in savings, too many New Yorkers are just one illness away from financial ruin. What’s more they fear that their children and grandchildren’s quality of life will be worse off.”

AARP, in conjunction with the Divided We Fail initiative, has produced “In Their Own Words,” a booklet that provides the candidates’ own words on the issues of health care and financial security. The statements listed in the booklet come from candidate websites, speeches, books, campaign literature, and from candidate answers to questions at events held around the country; statements are organized by Divided We Fail platform principles. Prior to publication, candidates were asked to review their statements to ensure accuracy.

To view “In Their Own Words” online, visit www.dividedwefail.org.

For more information on the Divided We Fail Presidential Primary Tour and the 2008 New York Primary Poll, visit www.aarp.org/ny.

It’s time we ensure health and long-term financial security for all. That’s why AARP, Business Roundtable, the Service Employees International Union and the National Federation of Independent Businesses, are leading Divided We Fail, an initiative to give voice to millions of Americans who are tired of letting Washington gridlock stand in the way of affordable, quality health care and long-term financial security – the most pressing domestic issues faction our nation. Common sense solutions are needed, and everyone – individuals, businesses and government – has a role and a responsibility in ensuring health and financial security for all. Go to www.dividedwefail.org to learn more.

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, published bimonthly; AARP Bulletin, our monthly newspaper; AARP Segunda Juventud, our bimonthly magazine in Spanish and English; NRTA Live & Learn, our quarterly newsletter for 50+ educators; and our website, http://www.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

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Added: February 19, 2008
Views: 622 | Comments: 0 | Bookmarks: 0

Health & Financial Security Key to Primary

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

HEALTH AND FINANCIAL SECURITY ISSUES

MAY BE KEY TO PRIMARY,

SAYS AARP POLL

-- AARP Launches Statewide Divided We Fail Presidential Primary Tour --

“Candidates’ positions on the issues of health care and financial security are important to the outcome of the New York State Presidential Primary,” stated Lois Aronstein. “

The poll results illustrated:

·         More than half of voters surveyed (52%) said they would be willing to change their vote as they learned more about where the candidates stand on health care and financial security issues.

·         When asked which candidates best addressed the issue of financial security, 42% of Democrats and 50% of Republicans said they did not have enough information to make a judgment.

·         Nine in ten (91%) respondents stated that where the candidates stand on the issue of health care would be a key factor in determining their vote.

·         Ninety-five percent of New Yorkers surveyed said that the candidates’ position on financial issues, such as Social Security, incentives for savings and investment, and pension protection, would influence their vote.

Respondents also ranked how well they believe the candidates have addressed health care and financial security in their campaigns.

“Health care and lifetime financial security are issues that cut across party lines,” said Aronstein. “Potential voters from both parties are saying they just don’t know enough about the candidates positions on these two vital issues. With 2.6 million New Yorkers uninsured and the average family having less than $35,000 in savings, too many New Yorkers are just one illness away from financial ruin. What’s more they fear that their children and grandchildren’s quality of life will be worse off.”

AARP announced the poll results in downtown

January 24 – Syracuse

January 25 – Rochester

January 26 – Elmira

January 27 – Binghamton

January 28 – Buffalo

January 29 – Utica

January 30 – Watertown

January 31 – Plattsburgh

February 1 – Glens Falls/Saratoga

February 2 – Long Island

February 3 – New York City

February 4 – Hudson Valley

February 5 – Troy

AARP, in conjunction with the Divided We Fail initiative, has produced “In Their Own Words”, a booklet that provides the candidates’ own words on the issues of health care and financial security. The statements listed in the booklet come from candidate websites, speeches, books and campaign literature and from candidate answers to questions at events around the country; statements are organized by Divided We Fail platform principles. Prior to publication, candidates were asked to review their statements to ensure accuracy.

To view “In Their Own Words” online, visit .www.dividedwefail.org

Click here to view the 2008 New York Primary Poll of voters 18+.

More information on the Divided We Fail Presidential Primary Tour can be found at: .www.aarp.org/ny

It's time we ensure health and long-term financial security for all. That's why AARP, Business Roundtable, the Service Employees International Union and the National Federation of Independent Businesses, are leading Divided We Fail, an initiative to give voice to millions of Americans who are tired of letting Washington gridlock stand in the way of affordable, quality health care and long-term financial security – the most pressing domestic issues faction our nation. Common sense solutions are needed, and everyone – individuals, businesses and government – has a role and a responsibility in ensuring health and financial security for all. Go to to learn more.www.dividedwefail.org

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, published bimonthly; AARP Bulletin, our monthly newspaper; AARP Segunda Juventud, our bimonthly magazine in Spanish and English; NRTA Live & Learn, our quarterly newsletter for 50+ educators; and our website, . 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 http://www.aarp.org

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Added: February 19, 2008
Views: 696 | Comments: 0 | Bookmarks: 0

AARP Applauds Governor's Budget Proposals

For Immediate Release:

Contacts: Kristin Legere (518) 447-6723 or Bill Ferris (518) 447-6712

Tuesday, January 22, 2008

AARP APPLAUDS GOVERNOR’S BUDGET PROPOSALS TO REFORM

ACCESS TO AND MARKETING OF PRESCRIPTION DRUGS

Statement by Lois Aronstein

State Director, AARP New York

Prescription drugs are one of the most important and expensive parts of health care. The Executive Budget, released today by Governor Spitzer, contains many innovative proposals to contain costs and increase access to prescription drugs for New Yorkers of all ages.

AARP commends the Governor for his proposal to create a prescription drug discount card as well as to begin “academic detailing” to health care professionals throughout the state. We are also extremely pleased that the Governor is taking a leadership role by setting the state on a course to maximize the state’s purchasing power of prescription drugs through bulk buying.

“Governor Spitzer’s vision is one that will benefit all New Yorkers, but especially those who are most in need,” stated Lois Aronstein, AARP New York State Director. “These proposals will change the way New York State purchases its drugs to the benefit of all New Yorkers and at the same time creates access for much needed prescription drugs.”

Discount Card

The EPIC Rx discount card would allow the uninsured regardless of age to save over 25% on their prescription drugs. Eligibility for the card would use existing EPIC income guidelines - singles with income of less than $35,000 and married couples with less than $50,000.

Rx Bulk Purchasing

The Governor authorizes the Commissioner of the Department of Health to explore the bulk purchasing of prescription drugs to maximize the state’s purchasing power. This initiative has the potential to save taxpayers money when the state purchases prescription drugs for programs such as Medicaid. The initiative also has the potential to fundamentally change how New York and other states purchase drugs.

Countering Drug Marketing – “Academic Detailing”

This initiative would provide objective research to physicians to encourage more independent prescribing of drugs. The drug industry spends billions on pushing doctors to prescribe new, high cost, brand name drugs when older or generic drugs that cost less are equally effective.

Rx Medicare Savings Program

Eligible EPIC seniors enrolled in the Qualified Individuals Medicare Savings Program will automatically be eligible for the Medicare Part D low income subsidy. The Medicare Part D low income subsidy covers the majority of an individual’s drug costs.

AARP is committed to working together with Governor Spitzer and the New York State Legislature on these proposals.

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Added: January 22, 2008
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AARP Andrus Award for Community Service Nominati

Nominate Someone You Know for Volunteer Award

AARP's commitment to volunteer service can be traced back to the life and vision of our founder, Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus. Each year, AARP honors the legacy of Dr. Andrus with the AARP Andrus Award for Community Service, our most prestigious and visible volunteer award. The 2007 Andrus Award for Community Service recognized 53 unique individuals, one, (sometimes two) from each state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, who have demonstrated the power to make it better in their communities in ways that are consistent with AARP's mission, vision and commitment to volunteer service, and that inspire other to volunteer.

Like Dr. Andrus, these winners have a desire to bring ideas and dreams to life. Their work and achievements have positive impact on the lives of many.

Deadline is June 2, 2008. Use this form to nominate your candidate for the 2008 AARP Andrus Award for Community Service.

http://assets.aarp.org/www.aarp.org_/articles/aboutaarp/AA2008NominationForm.pdf

Read about the 2007 Winners http://www.aarp.org/about_aarp/community_service/andrus_award_winners.html

Added: January 22, 2008
Views: 657 | Comments: 0 | Bookmarks: 0

Long-Term Care Information

To learn more about long-term care visit www.aarp.org/nymoney/caring/

Where Would You Rather Be?

Two Million unpaid caregivers are doing their best tp help loved ones age in place, but they need help from state leaders.

A new study in upstate New York of the growing popultaion of adults 65-plus says - predictably - that the need for medical care and accessible housing will explode in the next 25 years. Researchers at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York add that municipalities and private institutions in economically depressed areas may be overwhelmed.

The New York City area faces an equally uncertain future as one of the ocuntry’s poorest-served areas for senior housing. Facilities that offer independent living as well as nursing home care have been slow in coming.

AARP New York is pressing the state government to do more to keep older people at home, out of institutional settings, asking Gov. Eliot Spitzer (D) to spend $35 million more next year on adult day care, caregiver support and other options.

"Family caregivers are the backbone of our long-term care system," said Lois Aronstein, AARP state director. An AARP Public Policy Institute study released in June estimated that New York families provide $24 billion worth of care to older people each year. On the downside, the study also found that the state’s 2.2 million unpaid caregivers are more liekly than other adults to suffer chronic health conditions, arrive late to work and incur medical debt, burdening the state’s economy.

The propsed budget increase "will allow vunerable New Yorkers to receive long-term care services at their place of choice," said Aronstein.

To learn more about long-term care visit www.aarp.org/nymoney/caring/

Added: January 15, 2008
Views: 552 | Comments: 0 | Bookmarks: 0

Help for Medicare Beneficiaries

Help for Medicare Beneficiaries With Quality of Care Concerns

Are you a Medicare beneficiary with concerns about the quality of health care you have received in a hospital, nursing home, home health agency, hospice, outpatient facility, or physician’s office?

If so, there is a place that will review your concerns and work with your health care providers to improve care for future patients.

If you have a complaint about the quality of health care you receive, contact IPRO at 1-866-391-4682

Here are some examples of quality of care concerns you might report:

Given the wrong medication.
Not receiving treatment after abnormal test results.
Given the wrong blood when a transfusion is ordered.
Sustaining a serious injury resulting from a fall while in a nursing home or hospital.
Given the wrong or unnecessary treatment.
Developing bed sores because you were not moved regularly.

For more information or to report a complaint, contact IPRO at (866) 391-4682 or visit www.yourhealthyourvoice.org.

Added: January 15, 2008
Views: 648 | Comments: 0 | Bookmarks: 0

Statement on the State of the State

Wednesday, January 9, 2008

Contacts: Kristin Legere (518) 447-6723 or Bill Ferris (518) 447-6712

AARP STATEMENT ON STATE OF THE STATE

Lois Aronstein

Governor Spitzer’s State of the State addressed a number of issues important to the health and financial security of older New Yorkers.

From tackling property taxes and proposing paid family leave to bringing health care for children and medically under-served areas to preventing future home foreclosures, the Governor provides a number of opportunities that allow people to age in place - in their homes - with health care and financial security.

However, AARP strongly urges the Governor to take the opportunity to address one of the fastest growing health care costs for consumers, employers, and the government. We encourage the Governor to make prescription drugs more affordable and more accessible by changing the way the state purchases prescription drugs and the way prescription drugs are marketed.

Brand-name prescription drug prices increased at twice the rate of inflation in 2006. These steep price increases come on top of six consecutive years in which manufacturers’ price increases are often double or triple the Consumer Price Index.

Also, we believe the Governor should include in his Executive Budget a foreclosure fund to help thousands of New Yorkers who are currently in foreclosure and not eligible for the Governor’s “Keep the Dream” program.

AARP is committed to working with Governor Spitzer to help ensure that is a state where all of us can live, work, and age with independence and dignity.

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Added: January 11, 2008
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My Journals (148)