Johanns: Medicare Advantage Cuts a Blow to Seniors

Press Release

WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Mike Johanns (R-Neb.) today made the following statement after the Administration announced cuts to Medicare Advantage plans, largely as a result of Obamacare requirements:

"Another day, another broken Obamacare promise," Johanns said. "These cuts have already caused many seniors to lose their plans, and now they're faced with the burdens of paying more for fewer benefits and potentially losing their current doctors. Medicare Advantage has given millions of seniors extra benefits and additional flexibility when making choices with their doctors about their health care needs. These cuts will thwart the freedom of choice for many."

Medicare Advantage gives seniors private insurance options and offers more flexibility than traditional Medicare. Approximately 35,000 Nebraskans and nearly 30 percent of seniors nationwide are currently enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan. Obamacare slashed Medicare Advantage payments by more than $300 billion and reduced the number of plans available to seniors from 48 in 2009 to a mere 20. In rural areas, the plans available drop from 36 to 13.

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