Alliance for Retired Americans' Ed Coyle Joins Speaker Pelosi in Call For Health Care Reform

Health Reform Can Improve Seniors Lives,

Retiree Leader Says

Will Make Preventive Tests and Medications Affordable

The following statement was issued today by Edward F. Coyle, Executive Director of the Alliance for Retired Americans, who today joined House Speaker Nancy Pelosi in a press conference on health insurance reform.

“On behalf of the 4 million members of the Alliance for Retired Americans, I want to thank Speaker Pelosi for her leadership in bringing us to the conclusion of the health care debate.

“Unfortunately for seniors, this debate has been dominated by scare tactics and misinformation by the big insurance companies. They have distorted the truth to protect their record profits.

“But the truth is this: Congress has a chance to make smart investments in preventive care that will keep us healthier and spending less money. Health insurance reform will be good for both our physical health and our fiscal health.

“Here is how it will help seniors live longer and better lives:

• When we close the Medicare doughnut hole, seniors will no longer have to cut dangerous corners on their medications.
• When we eliminate co-pays for preventive screenings, older Americans will more quickly –and affordably – identify and treat diseases such as cancer and diabetes.
• When we cut wasteful spending and extend the life of the Medicare Trust Fund, we will help seniors better afford their monthly premiums, which have doubled over the past eight years.
• When we help pre-Medicare retirees afford insurance and finally ban pre-existing conditions, retirees will have fewer costly health problems when they begin Medicare at age 65.
• When we pass health care this week America’s seniors will breathe a sigh of relief, knowing that they will live longer, healthier, and happier lives.

“Retirees are struggling to get by and cannot afford to wait any longer. It is time to pass health care reform.”