|
||||
SURVEYS SHOW SATISFACTION WITH MEDICARE DRUG PLAN
To the Editor: Your story of August 1, "Surveys Show Satisfaction with Medicare Drug Plan" is an example of the press giving up on reporting truth in favor of "balance." The opening line of this story may contain the literal truth of the surveys on which it is reporting - that most Medicare beneficiaries who have signed up for drug coverage say they are happy with their plans - but a more essential truth is buried in paragraph 10 - that 20% of beneficiaries who are mostly the poorest and highest users of drugs are having major problems.
Also buried in later paragraphs are references to the half million low income people who might benefit from the program but have not signed up, and the very telling finding that nearly three-quarters of all beneficiaries think they would be better served by a prescription drug benefit within the traditional Medicare program.
A program that does not serve those who need it most is not a benefit. A uniform national prescription drug benefit administered through the traditional Medicare program would better serve all beneficiaries: those who are currently "happy with their plans" as well as those for whom the current process is unworkable.
FairMedicare.org is an initiative of the Center for Medicare Advocacy, Inc. (c) 2008
P.O. Box 350, Willmantic, CT 06226 - 860.456.7790 (ph) - 860.456.2614 (fax)
Notice of Copyright and Notice Regarding Legal Advice | Privacy Policy
