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Policy Series

Protect and Strengthen Medicare

Informed by the stories heard on Medicare Rights’ national helpline, this fact sheet series highlights a variety of Medicare issues and provides policy solutions to improve the program now and in the future.

Improving Medicare Savings Programs

Current Medicare policies expose low- and moderate-income beneficiaries to excessive out-of-pocket costs. For those who qualify, the Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs) can be a lifeline, helping them pay premiums and, in some cases, cost sharing for Medicare coverage they would not otherwise be able to afford. But the application process in most states is complex and burdensome, and the eligibility requirements leave far too many people who need this assistance unable to get it.

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Access to Medicare Supplemental Insurance Policies (Medigaps)

While it is relatively easy for a Medicare beneficiary to enroll into and disenroll from a Medicare Advantage (MA) plan on an annual basis, there are limited windows of opportunity to join a Medigap plan. This means that people who want to switch from MA to traditional Medicare may not have the option for supplemental coverage they need, which may lock them into MA coverage. In order for Medicare beneficiaries to have true freedom of choice concerning their coverage options, Medigap plan access must be strengthened.

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Medicare Watch

Medicare Rights provides timely updates on both the process and policies relevant to your health care each week. Sign up for our weekly e-newsletter to stay informed. View recent articles in the latest news and updates.

Policy Work

Any changes to the Medicare program must aim for healthier people, better care, and smarter spending—not paying more for less. As policymakers debate the future of health care, we will provide our insights here.

Resource Library

Our national and state policy agendas are defined by our experience serving people with Medicare on our national helpline and through our educational programs. Read our collection of reports, fact sheets, and letters to learn more about our policy positions.

Get Involved

You can help protect and strengthen Medicare by taking action on the important issues we are following, subscribe to newsletter alerts, or follow along on social media. Any way you choose to get involved is a contribution that we appreciate greatly.