Carney Announces Benefits For Seniors Within New Health Insurance Law

Press Release

Congressman Chris Carney (PA-10) today announced a series of provisions within the new health insurance law that are set to benefit seniors, including lower prescription drug costs and free preventative care services. He also unveiled a new online resource to help constituents navigate the impact of the new law and encouraged people to call his office for help understanding the legislation.

"This strengthens and protects services for seniors while cutting the costs of prescription drugs and preventative care," said Congressman Carney. "People on Medicare who enter the so-called prescription drug "donut hole' will get $250 rebate checks this year and eventually see that loophole closed completely. Preventative care under Medicare will be free beginning next year. Most importantly, this bill extends the life of Medicare for nearly a decade to protect coverage for seniors."

This web site has detailed information about the benefits included in the legislation and when they will take effect. He encourages anyone with questions to call our Washington office at 202-225-3731.

Closing the prescription drug "donut hole"
The bill makes prescription drugs more affordable this year by providing seniors in the Medicare Part D "donut hole" with a $250 rebate. Eventually, health insurance reform completely closes the "donut hole" so that seniors can avoid that big out-of-pocket expense they've been bearing for years. A typical senior who hits the donut hole will save over $700 in 2011, and over $3,000 a year by 2020.

Free preventative care under Medicare
The measure also increases access to preventive care by eliminating copayments and deductibles for these services for Medicare beneficiaries and includes important provisions to improve care coordination for seniors with multiple physicians. Effective beginning January 1, 2011.

Extends the life of Medicare
The health reform bill places Medicare on firmer financial footing, extending the life of the Medicare trust fund by almost a decade.

Protecting the patient-doctor relationship
Importantly, nothing in this act impacts beneficiaries' relationship with their personal doctor. Patients often have known their doctor for years and this bill will keep that relationship intact.

Setting up a new voluntary long-term care insurance program
Currently, long-term care is often unaffordable and inaccessible for millions of Americans. The health insurance reform legislation addresses this issue by creating a new national voluntary long-term care insurance program to help older adults with disabilities and chronic illnesses remain independent in their homes. This provision provides a lifetime cash benefit, offering people with disabilities some protection against the costs of paying for long term services and supports.

Help for early retirees
Health insurance reform creates a temporary reinsurance program to help offset the costs of expensive health claims for employers that provide health benefits for retirees age 55 to 64. This becomes effective in 90 days.

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