AARP Online Community: AARPsd - My Journals & Blogs

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 23, 2009
Views: 64 | Comments: 0 | Bookmarks: 0

Reaction to Sen. Finance Committee Health Reform Legislation

AARP Comments on Senate Finance Committee
Health Reform Legislation

WASHINGTON—AARP Executive Vice President John Rother released this statement following today’s introduction of health care reform legislation in the Senate Finance Committee:

“Today’s legislation moves the process forward and we hope the Chairman and his colleagues on both sides of the aisle can continue to have a rational, informed debate about its provisions as the committee’s markup process begins.

“AARP is pleased that the bill focuses on keeping people healthy by eliminating out-of-pocket spending for important screenings and preventive services in Medicare, and by covering annual wellness visits for Medicare beneficiaries and their doctors to focus on prevention. Under the legislation, doctors would be rewarded for providing quality care instead of for the number of tests ordered—a critical step in ensuring patients receive the highest quality care.

“The bill also includes incentives to improve quality of care by providing bonuses to Medicare Advantage plans while reducing subsidies to MA plans, saving taxpayers billions in waste. It introduces a pilot program on follow-up care, an important component in reducing costly and preventable hospital readmissions. Finally, the bill eliminates yearly and lifetime limits on what insurance companies will pay and substantially fills the dreaded Medicare doughnut hole—a costly gap in prescription drug coverage.

“However, we continue to have concerns about provisions that would allow for large differences in premiums based on age that could leave millions of older Americans still unable to afford the coverage they need. We also are troubled by the lack of any provisions to improve benefits for people with limited incomes so they can afford Medicare premiums and cost-sharing, and by the inclusion of an added premium tax that would raise prescription drug premiums on many middle-income working people in Medicare Part D.

“We look forward to working with Chairman Baucus, Ranking Member Grassley and their colleagues in the coming weeks to pass a health care reform package that protects benefits for people in Medicare and works for every American.”

Added: September 16, 2009
Views: 61 | Comments: 0 | Bookmarks: 0

AARP Survey: Independents More in Favor of Health Reform

All parties agree, health reform must be a priority this year

WASHINGTON—Independents 45-plus felt the President’s speech last night addressed some of their questions by a three-to-one margin according to overnight polling released by AARP today. The same survey found that a majority of Democrats, Republicans and Independents all agreed reform must be a priority for this year.

In a national survey of Americans over 45, AARP found that many independents had concerns about health reform coming into last night’s speech (77 percent), but most (72 percent) felt that some of their concerns were addressed by the President’s speech. Further, a clear majority of independents considered themselves “more supportive of the proposals being talked about related to health care” after the speech was over (63 percent).

“What we saw in this survey was something we’ve seen for decades: that once you explain why we need reform people understand its importance,” said Nancy LeaMond, AARP Executive Vice President. “Last night’s speech wasn’t as much of a ‘game changer’ as it was a volume softener. Older Americans across the political spectrum continue to agree that reform must be accomplished this year – we are hopeful that momentum carries us to reform that AARP can support.”

When asked if after watching the health reform address people felt that reform should be a priority for our leaders to address this year, 70 percent of Independents, 95 percent of Democrats and a majority of Republicans – 56 percent – agreed it should.

LeaMond added, “Illness does not ask who you voted for in the last election before the costs associated with getting sick decimate your family. This survey finds that Americans – from all political walks of life – are worried about our current system and want reform. And AARP is going to fight as it has for more than 50 years until we achieve that reform.”

AARP is fighting for reforms that protect and expand benefits for people in Medicare, prevent discrimination based on age or health, and ensure no one—not an insurance company or a government bureaucrat—can come between you and your doctor. We are working to close the dreaded gap in Medicare drug coverage that forces many to stop taking the medicines that keep them healthy, and ensure that older Americans can buy and keep affordable health coverage.

Woelfel Research Inc. conducted interviews with a random sample of people at least 45 years old who watched the president's address to Congress. The interviews, conducted on September 9, 2009 have a margin of sampling error of +/- 4.3 percent.

A link to the complete survey can be found here: http://www.aarp.org/research/surveys/care/health/hcreform/articles/pres_speech.html.

Added: September 10, 2009
Views: 60 | Comments: 0 | Bookmarks: 0

Join AARP South Dakota for Volunteer Sioux Falls 2009

Research shows that among those Americans who do not volunteer, 70 percent have never been asked. We’re going to start asking. Want to help?

Opportunities abound through AARP’s Create The Good! AARP launched Create the Good to help our members put a lifetime of skills, experience and wisdom to work making a difference for others. Create The Good helps you turn small actions into big results. Whether you have five minutes, a few hours, or more, Create The Good helps you find meaningful ways to give back - on your time, on your terms. You can find a variety of opportunities and ideas at www.createthegood.org.

You can help Create the Good in Sioux Falls by joining AARP South Dakota for Volunteer Sioux Falls 2009. Volunteer Sioux Falls is an annual, community-wide day of service. 2008 was the inaugural year for Volunteer Sioux Falls, and more than 400 people helped with projects including building a reading library for kids at a homeless shelter, cleaning up the yard of an elderly couple, packing food boxes for older persons, spending time with at-risk youth and much more! This year, we hope to have more than 600 people giving their time during Volunteer Sioux Falls!

Volunteer Sioux Falls 2009 takes place Saturday, Sept. 26, 2009. The day starts with a Community Rally at 8:30 am at the Macy’s Wing of the Empire Mall. Groups of volunteers will leave the mall and go out into the community to volunteer. Projects will be happening all over the Sioux Empire. Parks, churches, animal shelters, private homes, highways, schools, food pantries, hospitals and neighborhoods are all possible sites for volunteer projects – lead your own or grab a friend and join a project that is happening somewhere in the community. Get creative! The best projects are the ones you are passionate about!

To get more information and become involved in Volunteer Sioux Falls 2009 call the helpline at 211 or visit www.helplinecenter.org.

Thanks in advance for joining AARP South Dakota for Volunteer Sioux Falls 2009. Together we can turn small actions in to big results and Create The Good!

Added: September 4, 2009
Views: 113 | Comments: 0 | Bookmarks: 0

Job Fair for 40+ Workers

BRIDGES Employment Resource Center announces Job Search Seminar and Job Fair for the Over 40 Worker

The BRIDGES Employment Resource Center at The Center for Active Generations will host a 3 day seminar, "Job Search 101", on August 25, 26, 27 from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm. The seminar is designed to help job seekers prepare for the 2^nd annual , “Boomers Plus" Job Fair – for the 40 + Worker on September 24, 2009 from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm.

Topics included in the “Job Search 101”seminar are: Organize Your Job Search, Indentifying Your Job Skills, Writing a Winning Resume, and Interviewing Like a Pro.

The “Boomers Plus" Job Fair is an opportunity for the over 40 job seeker to visit with 48 businesses that recognize the value the mature worker can bring to their organization. Co-sponsors of the job fair are AARP South Dakota, South Dakota Department of Labor, and Sioux Falls Shopping News.

Both events are FREE and will be held at The Center for Active Generations at 2300 W 46th St, Sioux Falls, SD. To register for the 3 day seminar call 336-6722; registration is not required for the job fair.

If you have questions or would like to learn more about the BRIDGES Employment Resource Center, contact 333-3318 or email lclausen@cfag.org.

Added: August 20, 2009
Views: 136 | Comments: 0 | Bookmarks: 0

Conversation on Town Hall a success

Tuesday August 18th, AARP South Dakota and South Dakota public broadcasting held a health care town hall in Aberdeen. Former Sen. Tom Daschle shared his unique perspective on health care and what it means to South Dakota along with AARP national board member Skip Humphrey, and a panel of individuals and stakeholders with varrying perspectives on the issue.

At the conclusion, Sen. Daschle reflected on the event. To watch his comments, visit bit.ly/28nT9l.

More than 350 people turned out and many submitted questions to be addressed during the discussion.

The event was taped for broadcast by SDPB Radio and Television and can be heard and seen in its entirety on August 25th. Visit www.sdpb.org for listing information.

Added: August 19, 2009
Views: 88 | Comments: 0 | Bookmarks: 0

Conversations on Health Care

AARP South Dakota and SDPB Present

Conversations on Health Care

(Aberdeen) Whether you’re 5-years-old or 95-years-old, health care issues affect everyone, of every generation. We all have a personal stake in the health reform debate taking shape in Washington and here at home. To help you better understand how health reform will affect you and your family, AARP South Dakota and South Dakota Public Broadcasting bring you “Conversations on Health Care.” The events include a town hall-style meeting in Aberdeen, one-hour programs on SDPB Radio and SDPB Television, and news reports on SDPB Radio.

“Health reform is an important and complex issue,” said Sarah Jennings, state director for AARP South Dakota. “It is critically important that everyone is informed, and knows the facts. We’re pleased to join with SDPB on these “Conversations on Health Care” and address how health reform will affect South Dakotans.”

TOWN HALL MEETING

The first event is a public town hall-style meeting Tuesday, Aug. 18, at 7 p.m., in Northern State University's Johnson Fine Arts Center. The event will be moderated by SDPB Radio News Director Cara Hetland, and includes a panel of experts, including former U.S. Sen. Tom Daschle; Skip Humphrey, AARP National Board member; David Hewitt, President of the South Dakota Association of Health Care Organizations; David Owen, President of the South Dakota Chambers of Commerce & Industry; and others in the healthcare and business fields.

Anyone wishing to submit questions for this event may do so prior to August 18^th via email to sdaarp@aarp.org .

SDPB will be present the meeting on air Tuesday, Aug. 25:

Noon CT/11 a.m. MT on SDPB Radio
8 p.m. CT/7 MT on SDPB Television

AARP National Board member Skip Humphrey will be available for media interviews from 3:00-5:00 p.m. Tuesday August 18^th. In addition, Mr. Humphrey will participate in an extended question and answer session following the taping of the 1 hour program. Media wishing to schedule interviews with Mr. Humphrey should contact Cathy McLeer, 605-360-3904, or via email at cmcleer@aarp.org.

CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION
The views of South Dakota’s Congressional Delegation – U.S. Sens. Tim Johnson and John Thune, and U.S. Rep Stephanie Herseth Sandlin – will be part of an hour-long program that also features some of the healthcare struggles and stories of ordinary South Dakotans.

The program will be presented on air on Thursday, Aug. 27.

Noon CT/11 a.m. MT on SDPB Radio
8 p.m. CT/7 MT on SDPB Television

ABOUT AARP
Serving 105,000 members in South Dakota AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan membership organization that helps people 50 and over improve the quality of their lives. AARP’s mission is to enhance the quality of life for all as we age, leading positive social change and delivering value to members through information, advocacy and service. For more information visit www.aarp.org/sd or call 866-542-8172.

For a bio on AARP National Board member, Skip Humphrey, click or visit http://www.aarp.org/aarp/About_AARP/leadership/articles/Hubert_Humphrey.html

ABOUT SOUTH DAKOTA PUBLIC BROADCASTING
South Dakota Public Broadcasting is a statewide multi-media network offering quality entertainment and lifelong learning via Television, Radio, Internet and Education & Outreach. For information about SDPB and the Friends of SDPB, go to www.SDPB.org or call 800-456-0766.

Added: August 14, 2009
Views: 125 | Comments: 1 | Bookmarks: 0

Don't Let the Myths About Health Care Reform Scare You

Don't Let the Myths About Health Care Reform Scare You.

There are special interest groups trying to block progress on health care reform by using myths and scare tactics. Like the notion that health care reform would ration your care, hurt Medicare or be a government takeover. Actually, these are false statements.

All of the health care reform plans currently being debated in Congress would ensure that you and your doctor are the ones making decisions about your health. The majority of working Americans will continue to receive their health care through their employer. In addition, health care reform will strengthen Medicare by eliminating billions of dollars in waste while lowering prescription drug prices.

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.

Visit www.healthactionnow.org for the facts! Or Watch a video at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X4nkuwV4jqw

Added: August 7, 2009
Views: 133 | Comments: 4 | Bookmarks: 0

Health Reform Round Table in Sioux Falls Saturday, July 25

South Dakotans need Health Action NOW!

We must hold Congress accountable for their action - or inaction to provide affordable health care choices for all South Dakotans. Congress is acting now and so must we!

Join us in Sioux Falls Saturday, July 25^th

10:30 AM-12:00 PM

Oak View Public Library, 3700 E. 3rd Street

AARP is one of several panelists at an event sponsored by South Dakotans for Health Care Solutions to discuss health reform from a variety of perspectives.

Please take time from your busy schedule to learn more about what's happening in Washington and how you can help to make affordable, quality health care for everyone a reality in 2009.

Visit www.healthactionnow.org to share your story and learn more.

Added: July 24, 2009
Views: 84 | Comments: 0 | Bookmarks: 0

Teletown Hall on Health Care Friday at 8:30 am and 5:00 pm

Listen in to a National Teletown Hall on Health Care

This week, we are learning a lot about what Congress thinks of health reform as both the House and Senate start moving forward with legislation.

Friday July 24^th, at 8:30-9:30 a.m. CDT, and again at 5:00-6:00 p.m. CDT listen in to an AARP teletown-hall for a full report from our staff on the progress we're making – and where we go from here. You can listen to audio from the call by clicking the following link.

http://aarp.convio.net/site/PageServer?pagename=nat_town_hall_stream0709

This might be one of the most crucial moments in the fight for health reform. We're holding a town hall meeting at this critical juncture to give our members a chance to ask questions and find out what AARP is fighting for in this reform effort. There are a lot of myths floating around about health reform right now, and this will only get worse as special interests that oppose reform step up their efforts. We want to make sure you get the facts straight from us!

We know one thing for sure: to ensure that the special interests trying to influence Congress are unsuccessful, AARP activists will need to work hard to break through the clutter. We'll need to be louder. We'll need to be bigger. And we'll need to be better.

And that starts with being on the same page. Thank you again for all you do to fight for meaningful health reform that brings down costs and extends affordable coverage to all Americans!

Please visit www.healthactionnow.org for additional information on health reform.

Added: July 23, 2009
Views: 77 | Comments: 0 | Bookmarks: 0

My Journals (106)