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.

On October 13, the Social Security Administration announced that the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for 2021 will be 1.3%, which amounts to a modest $20 a month increase for the average retired worker.

Medicare’s annual Fall Open Enrollment Period occurs from October 15 to December 7. During this time, people with Medicare can

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.

Yesterday, Congress passed and the President signed a bill that funds the federal government through December 11, setting the stage

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.

This week, the Trump administration withdrew a proposed rule that would have interfered with some Medicaid funding, forcing states to cut Medicaid coverage and services.

Census data released last week show that the number of uninsured Americans has been on the rise in recent years. The share of those who were uninsured at the time of the survey grew for the third year in a row, even as the economy was growing.

The 2020 flu season is just around the corner. Like every year, the flu will be best contained when as many people as possible get a flu vaccine, and this is especially important this year as the health system continues to grapple with the COVID-19 public health emergency.