Congressman Rothman: Seniors will Have More Money in their Pockets in 2012

Press Release

Congressman Steve Rothman (D-NJ) is pleased to announce that all Social Security recipients will receive more money in 2012 because Social Security checks will receive a 3.6% cost of living adjustment (COLA) and Medicare premiums will increase much less than predicted.

"In these tough economic times it is more important than ever to make sure that our nation's seniors have more money to live on. I am very pleased to announce that our seniors will finally receive more money in their Social Security checks in 2012," said Congressman Rothman. "Seniors will not only get an average increase in Social Security benefits of $39 a month, but they will get more bang for their buck in the health care marketplace. The change in Medicare premiums for 2012 is proof that health care reform is working and benefiting our seniors."

The additional benefits for seniors in Affordable Care Act that was signed into law last year:

· Free annual wellness exams and "Welcome to Medicare" physical.

· No more Medicare Part B deductible or copayment for important preventative services like mammograms, colorectal cancer screenings, and flu shots.

· Gradual closing of the prescription drug "donut hole" and a 50% discount on medications for those in the coverage gap in the meantime.

· Bonus payments for primary care doctors who serve Medicare patients, to ensure seniors can see a doctor when they need one.

· Extending the life of the Medicare Trust Fund to at least 2024 as a result of reducing waste, fraud, and abuse, and slowing cost growth in Medicare.

Source