Introduction

The COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE) and the resultant economic fallout has highlighted longstanding barriers affecting Medicare beneficiaries, older adults and people with disabilities, especially individuals with low incomes and people of color. However, the pandemic has also provided an opportunity to address these challenges with renewed purpose and vigor. It is imperative that New York State act to support older adults and people with disabilities by continuing to invest in state and local programs that meaningfully improve health and economic well-being.

Each year, Medicare Rights answers thousands of questions about the Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs) on its helpline and witnesses the obstacles that people with Medicare encounter when applying. Based on consumer experiences in New York State and lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic, Medicare Rights has identified strategies to reduce several obstacles that beneficiaries face when trying to access MSPs. Medicare Rights hopes that policymakers will consider immediate action to improve access to the Medicare Savings Programs in New York.