Issue Position: Medicare

Issue Position

As a strong supporter of Medicare, I seek to increase the availability of such quality, affordable care for seniors and people with disabilities. I strongly supported the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act, which preserved Medicare beneficiaries' access to physician services and other essential health care services by preventing the 10.6% cut in Medicare reimbursements that were scheduled in 2008. The Act also included important beneficiary improvements in mental health coverage, preventive coverage, and assistance for low-income beneficiaries.

I also support efforts to improve Medicare Part D, which covers prescription drugs. This program leaves many unable to afford their life-saving prescription drugs. I am a proud co-sponsor of the Medicare Prescription Drug Price Negotiation Act. This bill, which passed the House of Representatives in 2007 and still awaits action in the Senate, would require the government to negotiate with pharmaceutical manufacturers to achieve the most affordable prices for Medicare participants.

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