FY 2013 Republican Budget Proposal
The Republican budget proposal fails to reduce the deficit in a balanced way, it fails to protect the middle class and our seniors, and it fails to create long-term economic growth in America.
The Republican budget would end Medicare as we know it by turning it into a voucher program. This means seniors would be on their own to purchase health insurance on the individual market with a voucher of limited value. This proposal does nothing to reduce costs; it merely shifts the cost burden onto our seniors and their families.
With the Republican voucher plan, seniors could face hurdles in purchasing insurance on the individual market including discrimination or higher premiums based on age, illness, or income. Under this proposal, seniors could face higher costs, lower quality of care, fewer benefits, or reduced access to care.
Privatizing Medicare means:
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Limits on benefits
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Obstacles to care and uncertain reimbursements
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Co-payments for primary care and specialty care
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Exclusions for certain services
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Discrimination based on age, illness, or income
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Uncertainty if serious illness or need for long-term care occurs
The Republican voucher plan would eliminate the foundation of Medicare – which has been a lifeline for older Americans, providing them with the quality, affordable health coverage they need and deserve. I will continue to fight these efforts and work to protect and preserve the Medicare guarantee for America’s seniors – now and in the future.