I am writing to inform Alaskans about a major proposed change in Medicare. If you do not have Medicare, you likely will someday. No matter how you vote, the Project 2025 initiative written by former Trump administration officials proposes a major change to Medicare, privatizing it. Privatizing means dismantling it as we know it. The plan is to push more seniors into privatized plans, which would mean fewer choices for Alaskans.
These plans are run by insurance companies who siphon off funds while promising Medicare recipients savings.
In fact, the insurers are exploiting Medicare Advantage loopholes by inflating risk scores, thus increasing cost.
The data behind these assertions is compelling.
This may sound geeky, but the bottom line is that these plans waste taxpayer dollars and in the end increase recipient co-payments. Medicare enrollment is underway. Be smart. Talk with your family.
Right now, there are no Advantage plans in Alaska. Why?
Because there is not enough money to be made. These Advantage plans take advantage of seniors. Project 2025 would make them nationwide.
Whether you are a Republican, Democratic or independent voter in this state matters not. This type of proposal should give you pause. Perhaps consider this when you vote.
— Dr. Tim Quigley Peterson
Juneau
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