Mainers were outspoken at the State House on Dec. 14 in strong reaction to budget cuts proposed by Gov. Paul LePage.
I am fearful of the extremely negative impact for thousands and thousands of people across the state. I testified on behalf of the 72,000 who are in the Medicare Savings Program. I sincerely hope the members of the Appropriations Committee were listening.
Some 72,000 low-income seniors and adults with disabilities depend on the MSP for their medical care and prescription drug coverage. That could all come to an end, despite the fact that, several years ago, legislators from both sides of the aisle approved the MSP for those on low, fixed incomes who were over 65 and on Medicare or disabled. MSP covers Part B premiums for Medicare, which pays for all doctor visits, preventive care, screenings and outpatient care and costs.
The MSP is also important for another reason. The federal government pays Medicare Part D prescription drug premiums for all eligible MSP members, so they have access to low-cost prescription drugs. What a great thing if you are a senior living on a low, fixed income of less than $14,500.
Are 72,000 Mainers going to lose access to their doctors and their prescription drugs?
What a dreadful situation that would create for our neighbors, our friends and our families.
Richard Farnsworth, Portland
Chairman, AARP Maine Capitol City Task Force
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