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Medicare Watch

Medicare Watch articles are featured in a weekly newsletter that helps readers stay up-to-date on Medicare policy and advocacy developments, and learn about changes in Medicare benefits and rules.

Congressional Democrats Seek Clarification from Trump Administration on Part D “Gift Cards”

Yesterday, leading Democrats on U.S. House and Senate committees with jurisdiction over Medicare asked the Trump administration for more information on its rumored plan to send $200 “gift cards” to people with Medicare Part D in the coming weeks. The lawmakers also asked the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO), the federal agency charged with oversight of such matters, to conduct an expedited review of the project’s legality.

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What You Need to Know About Coronavirus and Medicare Coverage

As the number of cases of COVID-19 (also called coronavirus) increases, so does the importance of programs like Medicare in helping older adults, people with disabilities, and their families build and maintain their health and economic security. Accordingly, policymakers are taking critical steps to ensure program preparedness, keep beneficiaries and the public informed, and facilitate timely access to appropriate care.

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COVID-19 Harming Older Adult Employment, Increasing Strain on Medicare

It is clear that older adults have been disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, with far too many experiencing significant complications, hospitalization, and even death. But the harm of the pandemic goes beyond devastating health consequences to also include negative changes to employment, income, and financial security. This week, the Commonwealth Fund released an issue brief discussing the widespread economic damage the pandemic has caused older adults, and what these impacts may mean going forward for people with Medicare and the program.

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Assess Your Medicare Coverage During Fall Open Enrollment

Each year, during Fall Open Enrollment (October 15 through December 7), people with Medicare have the opportunity to make certain changes to their coverage, including switching prescription drug plans or between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage (MA).

Congressional Democrats Seek Clarification from Trump Administration on Part D “Gift Cards”

Yesterday, leading Democrats on U.S. House and Senate committees with jurisdiction over Medicare asked the Trump administration for more information on its rumored plan to send $200 “gift cards” to people with Medicare Part D in the coming weeks. The lawmakers also asked the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO), the federal agency charged with oversight of such matters, to conduct an expedited review of the project’s legality.

What You Need to Know About Coronavirus and Medicare Coverage

As the number of cases of COVID-19 (also called coronavirus) increases, so does the importance of programs like Medicare in helping older adults, people with disabilities, and their families build and maintain their health and economic security. Accordingly, policymakers are taking critical steps to ensure program preparedness, keep beneficiaries and the public informed, and facilitate timely access to appropriate care.

COVID-19 Harming Older Adult Employment, Increasing Strain on Medicare

It is clear that older adults have been disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, with far too many experiencing significant complications, hospitalization, and even death. But the harm of the pandemic goes beyond devastating health consequences to also include negative changes to employment, income, and financial security. This week, the Commonwealth Fund released an issue brief discussing the widespread economic damage the pandemic has caused older adults, and what these impacts may mean going forward for people with Medicare and the program.

House Democrats Release Updated COVID-19 Relief Bill

The new legislation is an attempt to compromise with the White House and Senate Republicans, who prefer a smaller relief bill. Despite its reduced cost, the bill continues to include many changes that are critical for people with Medicare and their families.