Sens. Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ) and Tim Scott (R-SC) lead the initiative to protect 27 million Americans from harmful cuts to their health care
Washington, D.C. – October 15, 2021 – Nearly 27 million seniors and people with disabilities choose Medicare Advantage (MA) because it delivers better services, better access to care, and better value – and their coverage and care should be protected. That was the key message, as a bipartisan group of 13 Senators came forward in a letter to voice their support for MA and underscore their commitment to protecting it from harmful cuts.
“For years, Medicare Advantage has enjoyed strong bipartisan support because it is a prime example of the government and private market working together to deliver lower costs, more choices, and better outcomes,” said Matt Eyles, AHIP President and CEO. “We greatly appreciate the Senators for standing up for this important program, which serves millions of Americans, including many in rural and underserved communities. Medicare Advantage plans join them in their commitment to ensuring those served by the program receive the high quality, affordability and value they deserve.”
The letter described how those eligible for Medicare, including those in rural communities, have access to more MA coverage choices today. It delivers high-quality coverage and access to care to a diverse population, including Black and Latino Americans, as well as seniors living on a limited income. The program has continued to deliver through the COVID-19 crisis, supporting underserved communities and encouraging vaccinations.
“To ensure this continuum of care, we stand ready to protect MA from payments cuts, which could lead to higher costs and premiums, reduce vital benefits, and undermine advances made to improve health outcomes and health equity for MA enrollees,” the Senators wrote. “We look forward to partnering with you to fulfill CMS’s commitment to improving health care access, quality, and affordability, and to advancing health equity.”
Senators who signed the letter are:
- Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ)
- Tim Scott (R-SC)
- Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV)
- Gary Peters (D-MI)
- Todd Young (R-IN)
- Jon Tester (D-MT)
- Marco Rubio (R-FL)
- Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
- Joe Manchin (D-WV)
- Angus King (I-ME)
- Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH)
- Deb Fischer (R-NE)
- Mark Kelly (D-AZ)
About AHIP
AHIP is the national association whose members provide health care coverage, services, and solutions to hundreds of millions of Americans every day. We are committed to market-based solutions and public-private partnerships that make health care better and coverage more affordable and accessible for everyone. Visit www.ahip.org to learn how working together, we are Guiding Greater Health.