July 25, 2013
News Release
Before the enactment of Medicare, 48 years ago, only 50 percent of seniors had health insurance and 35 percent lived in poverty. That was a time when even a minor illness or injury could bankrupt older Americans and their families. Fast forward to 2013 and nearly 50 million Americans are receiving guaranteed health care benefits through the Medicare program regardless of their medical condition or income. Protecting this lifeline benefit for the future is why National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare activists in 50+ cities and towns across the country, will converge on more than 40 Congressional district offices Monday, July 29th to deliver Medicare anniversary signs. On the same day, advocates will be delivering signs to every House and Senate office on Capitol Hill. Members will be asked to display the sign on their office door on July 30th to show their support for Medicare. Included in the delivery will be special cards listing the National Committee’s Top 10 reasons why Americans love Medicare.
“In spite of Medicare’s success in keeping America’s seniors healthy and out of poverty, Medicare’s guaranteed coverage is under nearly constant attack in Washington. The budget plan passed in the House would end traditional Medicare, privatize it and leave seniors on their own to negotiate with private insurance companies. It would require seniors to pay $6,000 more each year for fewer benefits, making it harder to choose their own doctors while also giving the wealthiest Americans a massive tax break. Too many Members of Congress who’ve advocated the dismantling of Medicare camouflage their plans with promises to “save” the program. However, the American people know you don’t have to destroy Medicare to strengthen it. That’s the message our activists are delivering directly to Congress on this 48th anniversary.”…Max Richtman, NCPSSM President/CEO
The anniversary sign, Top Ten Reasons card, Medicare infographics, fact sheets and social media are available on the Medicare Anniversary webpage at: https://www.ncpssm.org/MedicareAnniversary.
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The National Committee, a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization acts in the interests of its membership through advocacy, education, services, grassroots efforts and the leadership of the Board of Directors and professional staff. The work of the National Committee is directed toward developing better-informed citizens and voters.
Media Inquiries to:
Pamela Causey 202-216-8378/202-236-2123
Kim Wright 202-216-8414