General fitness, health and nutrition · Public discussion

More on the Drug Bill

Peanutjake · 2004-01-13T03:09:30+00:00

I receved this email from a friend in New Jersey PJ ----------------------------------------------------- For years, Democratic lawmakers have been working to make sure that seniors have access to prescription drugs and reasonable healthcare. Now, in an attempt to score political points, the Republican Congressional leadership is pushing through a bill that appears to offer a solution. Actually, the bill undermines the entire Medicare program, pushing people into the very HMOs which contribute heavily to Republican lawmakers and barring the government from negotiating for lower drug prices. Given the danger to seniors, one might expect that the millions-strong American Association of Retired People (AARP) to be on the case. But after huge contributions from pharmaceutical companies and HMOs, and pressure from Republican lawmakers, the AARP is selling out its membership and backing the bill. In response, 85 members of Congress (so far) have canceled their AARP memberships, or announced that they will never join (if they're not yet old enough to be eligible). [1] Today, we urge you to do the same. If the AARP won't stand up for the elderly when it comes to health care, what good is it? You can reach the AARP at: NJ Branch: 609-987-0744 National hotline: 1-800-424-3410 If you're a member, tell them you're quitting. If you're too young to be eligible, tell them you'll never join. You also may want to let your Representative and Senators know that you're keeping the AARP accountable. You could also tell them that you expect them to demand real health care reform -- not this industry-backed bill. You can reach your members of Congress at: Representative Donald M. Payne DC Phone: 202-225-3436 Senator Frank Lautenberg DC Phone: 202-224-3224 Senator Jon S. Corzine DC Phone: 202-224-4744 Please let us know how you feel about this -- we're collecting individual comments to share with the media, at: http://moveon.org/aarp.html?id=2136-2872706-bWrceocg.APKD4NthfLzuw The AARP has endorsed a bill that would make two fundamental changes in Medicare: 1. First, it would force people to make a stark choice: either pay sharply increased premiums to stay in traditional Medicare, where they can choose their doctor; or be forced out, into an HMO. Newt Gingrich, the former House Republican leader, said in 1995 that he wanted to let Medicare to "wither on the vine." This change would lead to that result, with cost incentives driving people out. (Not coincidentally, AARP CEO William Novelli recently wrote the forward to Gingrich's book. [2]) 2. Second, it offers a prescription drug benefit, but requires people who want this coverage to buy it from private insurance plans. This part of the bill also bars the government from doing the one thing it could do to actually reduce the cost of these drugs -- negotiate for lower prices, using the size of the Medicare program as leverage. Drug prices are soaring now, and unless they're brought under control, they will eventually bankrupt Medicare. AARP itself sells insurance and also sells prescription drugs, so the group stands to reap huge financial gains from this change. The bill has been opposed by a host of liberal groups [3] as well as by major conservative groups, including the Club for Growth, The Heritage Foundation, the American Conservative Union, The Cato Institute, and the National Taxpayers Union. It's also been assailed by virtually every one of the Democratic presidential candidates. [4] In endorsing this bill, the AARP has broken faith with its members. In a recent poll, 65% of AARP members said they're opposed to it. [5] The group has also violated its own written principles. In July, CEO William Novelli wrote to Congress stating the requirements for AARP's support of a Medicare bill. [6] Yet the bill AARP has just endorsed fails to meet nine separate requirements stated in that letter. [7] We need to hold the AARP responsible for selling out its members. If the organization sees sufficient backlash from its members and prospective members, it could still change course and effect the outcome of this legislation. Please call your local AARP branch today. Sincerely, --Carrie, Eli, James, Joan, Noah, Peter, Wes, and Zack The MoveOn.org Team November 20th, 2003 ----- [3] 85 Representatives wrote to Novelli, canceling their memberships: http://www.moveon.org/HouseAARPletter.pdf [2] From the foreword by Novelli to Gingrich's new book, "Saving Lives and Saving Dollars". [4] See http://www.moveon.org/medicare.html for a complete list of organizations. [5] See: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A54358-2003Nov17.html [6] Poll: a majority of AARP members oppose the Medicare bill: http://www.moveon.org/Medicaresurveypr.pdf [7] AARP July letter on minimum acceptable standards http://www.aarp.org/Articles/a2003-08-18- drugbenefitinmedicare.html [8] How AARP goes back on its word http://www.house.gov/schakowsky/Document_AARP_Priorities_11_17_03.html [9]http://www.aarp.org/leadership/Articles/a2002-12-18-aarpfactsheet.html

Started by Peanutjake · 13 January 2004 · Last activity 13 January 2004 · 49 posts · 1,411 views

← Back to General fitness, health and nutrition

Thread navigation

Jump through the discussion

Go to the original post, the replies on this page, or the latest preserved contribution.

01 / Original postMore on the Drug BillPeanutjake · 13 Jan 2004 02 / This pagePosts 1–20Page 1 of 3 · chronological order 03 / Latest replyPost #49Mike Gray · 13 Jan 2004

Thread details

What we know about this thread

Original section: General fitness, health and nutrition
Published: 13 January 2004
Last activity: 13 January 2004
Original author: Peanutjake
Posts: 49
Discussion status: Public discussion
Total views: 1,411
Views / 30 days: 0

The navigation and discussion metadata provide context. Posts remain in their original chronological order.

Original post
Peanutjake
Archived post

13 January 2004, 03:09 UTC #1

I receved this email from a friend in New Jersey PJ
-----------------------------------------------------
For years, Democratic lawmakers have been working to make sure that seniors have access to
prescription drugs and reasonable healthcare. Now, in an attempt to score political points, the
Republican Congressional leadership is pushing through a bill that appears to offer a solution.
Actually, the bill undermines the entire Medicare program, pushing people into the very HMOs which
contribute heavily to Republican lawmakers and barring the government from negotiating for lower
drug prices.
Given the danger to seniors, one might expect that the millions-strong American Association of
Retired People (AARP) to be on the case. But after huge contributions from pharmaceutical companies
and HMOs, and pressure from Republican lawmakers, the AARP is selling out its membership and
backing the bill.
In response, 85 members of Congress (so far) have canceled their AARP memberships, or announced that
they will never join (if they're not yet old enough to be eligible). [1] Today, we urge you to do
the same. If the AARP won't stand up for the elderly when it comes to health care, what good is it?
You can reach the AARP at:
NJ Branch: 609-987-0744 National hotline: 1-800-424-3410
If you're a member, tell them you're quitting.
If you're too young to be eligible, tell them you'll never join.
You also may want to let your Representative and Senators know that you're keeping the AARP
accountable. You could also tell them that you expect them to demand real health care reform -- not
this industry-backed bill.
You can reach your members of Congress at:
Representative Donald M. Payne DC Phone: 202-225-3436
Senator Frank Lautenberg DC Phone: 202-224-3224
Senator Jon S. Corzine DC Phone: 202-224-4744
Please let us know how you feel about this -- we're collecting individual comments to share with the
media, at:
moveon.orgaarp.html
The AARP has endorsed a bill that would make two fundamental changes in Medicare:
1. First, it would force people to make a stark choice: either pay sharply increased premiums to
stay in traditional Medicare, where they can choose their doctor; or be forced out, into an HMO.
Newt Gingrich, the former House Republican leader, said in 1995 that he wanted to let Medicare
to "wither on the vine." This change would lead to that result, with cost incentives driving
people out. (Not coincidentally, AARP CEO William Novelli recently wrote the forward to
Gingrich's book. [2])
2. Second, it offers a prescription drug benefit, but requires people
who want this coverage to buy it from private insurance plans.
This part of the bill also bars the government from doing the one thing it could do to actually
reduce the cost of these drugs -- negotiate for lower prices, using the size of the Medicare
program as leverage. Drug prices are soaring now, and unless they're brought under control, they
will eventually bankrupt Medicare.
AARP itself sells insurance and also sells prescription drugs, so the group stands to reap huge
financial gains from this change.
The bill has been opposed by a host of liberal groups [3] as well as by major conservative groups,
including the Club for Growth, The Heritage Foundation, the American Conservative Union, The Cato
Institute, and the National Taxpayers Union. It's also been assailed by virtually every one of the
Democratic presidential candidates. [4]
In endorsing this bill, the AARP has broken faith with its members. In a recent poll, 65% of AARP
members said they're opposed to it. [5] The group has also violated its own written principles. In
July, CEO William Novelli wrote to Congress stating the requirements for AARP's support of a
Medicare bill. [6] Yet the bill AARP has just endorsed fails to meet nine separate requirements
stated in that letter. [7]
We need to hold the AARP responsible for selling out its members. If the organization sees
sufficient backlash from its members and prospective members, it could still change course and
effect the outcome of this legislation. Please call your local AARP branch today.
Sincerely, --Carrie, Eli, James, Joan, Noah, Peter, Wes, and Zack The MoveOn.org Team November
20th, 2003
-----
[3] 85 Representatives wrote to Novelli, canceling their memberships:
moveon.orgHouseAARPletter.pdf [2] From the foreword by Novelli to Gingrich's new
book, "Saving Lives and Saving Dollars".
[4] See moveon.orgmedicare.html for a complete list of organizations.
[5] See: washingtonpost.comA54358 2003Nov17.html
[6] Poll: a majority of AARP members oppose the Medicare bill:
moveon.orgMedicaresurveypr.pdf
[7] AARP July letter on minimum acceptable standards aarp.orga2003 08 18
drugbenefitinmedicare.html
[8] How AARP goes back on its word
house.govDocument AARP Priorities 11 17 03.html
[9]aarp.orga2002 12 18 aarpfactsheet.html

Report
Don Stevens
Archived post

13 January 2004, 03:09 UTC #2

You answered the question in your first sentence! That the Democrates have worked for "YEARS" for
a RX bill.
If it takes that long to come up with a bill then they are real dumb!!! Plus they can't even agree
among themselves on a 'good' Bill
A bird in hand is worth two in the bush!!!!!! don
"Peanutjake" <[email hidden]> wrote in message -"]news:[email hidden]-
berlin.de...
Quoted message said:
I receved this email from a friend in New Jersey PJ
-----------------------------------------------------
For years, Democratic lawmakers have been working to make sure that seniors have access to
prescription drugs and reasonable healthcare. Now, in an attempt to score political points, the
Republican Congressional leadership is pushing through a bill that appears to offer a solution.
Actually, the bill undermines the entire Medicare program, pushing people into the very HMOs which
contribute heavily to Republican lawmakers and barring the government from negotiating for lower
drug prices.
Given the danger to seniors, one might expect that the millions-strong American Association of
Retired People (AARP) to be on the case. But after huge contributions from pharmaceutical
companies and HMOs, and pressure from Republican lawmakers, the AARP is selling out its membership
and backing the bill.
In response, 85 members of Congress (so far) have canceled their AARP memberships, or announced
that they will never join (if they're not yet old enough to be eligible). [1] Today, we urge you
to do the same. If the AARP won't stand up for the elderly when it comes to health care, what good
is it? You can reach the AARP at:
NJ Branch: 609-987-0744 National hotline: 1-800-424-3410
If you're a member, tell them you're quitting.
If you're too young to be eligible, tell them you'll never join.
You also may want to let your Representative and Senators know that you're keeping the AARP
accountable. You could also tell them that you expect them to demand real health care reform --
not this industry-backed bill.
You can reach your members of Congress at:
Representative Donald M. Payne DC Phone: 202-225-3436
Senator Frank Lautenberg DC Phone: 202-224-3224
Senator Jon S. Corzine DC Phone: 202-224-4744
Please let us know how you feel about this -- we're collecting individual comments to share with
the media, at:
moveon.orgaarp.html
The AARP has endorsed a bill that would make two fundamental changes in Medicare:
1. First, it would force people to make a stark choice: either pay sharply increased premiums
to stay in traditional Medicare, where they can choose their doctor; or be forced out, into
an HMO.
Newt Gingrich, the former House Republican leader, said in 1995 that he wanted to let Medicare
to "wither on the vine." This change would lead to that result, with cost incentives driving
people out. (Not coincidentally, AARP CEO William Novelli recently wrote the forward to
Gingrich's book. [2])
2. Second, it offers a prescription drug benefit, but requires people
who want this coverage to buy it from private insurance plans.
This part of the bill also bars the government from doing the one thing it could do to actually
reduce the cost of these drugs -- negotiate for lower prices, using the size of the Medicare
program as leverage. Drug prices are soaring now, and unless they're brought under control,
they will eventually bankrupt Medicare.
AARP itself sells insurance and also sells prescription drugs, so the group stands to reap huge
financial gains from this change.
The bill has been opposed by a host of liberal groups [3] as well as by major conservative groups,
including the Club for Growth, The Heritage Foundation, the American Conservative Union, The Cato
Institute, and the National Taxpayers Union. It's also been assailed by virtually every one of the
Democratic presidential candidates. [4]
In endorsing this bill, the AARP has broken faith with its members. In a recent poll, 65% of AARP
members said they're opposed to it. [5] The group has also violated its own written principles. In
July, CEO William Novelli wrote to Congress stating the requirements for AARP's support of a
Medicare bill. [6] Yet the bill AARP has just endorsed fails to meet nine separate requirements
stated in that letter. [7]
We need to hold the AARP responsible for selling out its members. If the organization sees
sufficient backlash from its members and prospective members, it could still change course and
effect the outcome of this legislation. Please call your local AARP branch today.
Sincerely, --Carrie, Eli, James, Joan, Noah, Peter, Wes, and Zack The MoveOn.org Team November
20th, 2003
-----
[1] 85 Representatives wrote to Novelli, canceling their memberships:
moveon.orgHouseAARPletter.pdf [2] From the foreword by Novelli to Gingrich's new
book, "Saving Lives and Saving Dollars".
[3] See moveon.orgmedicare.html for a complete list of organizations.
[4] See: washingtonpost.comA54358 2003Nov17.html
[5] Poll: a majority of AARP members oppose the Medicare bill:
moveon.orgMedicaresurveypr.pdf
[6] AARP July letter on minimum acceptable standards aarp.orga2003 08 18
drugbenefitinmedicare.html
[7] How AARP goes back on its word
house.govDocument AARP Priorities 11 17 03.html
[8]aarp.orga2002 12 18 aarpfactsheet.html

Report
Bj In Texas
Archived post

13 January 2004, 03:09 UTC #3

Peanutjake said:
I receved this email from a friend in New Jersey PJ
-----------------------------------------------------
For years, Democratic lawmakers have been working to make sure that seniors have access to
prescription drugs and reasonable healthcare.
Obviously if left to the Dems you would wait for many more years. At least you are getting
something.... BJ

Report
If You Can'T Sw
Archived post

13 January 2004, 03:09 UTC #4

More on the Drug Bill
In response, 85 members of Congress (so far) have cancelled their AARP memberships, or announced
that they will never join (if they're not yet old enough to be eligible). [1] Today, we urge you to
do the same. If the AARP won't stand up for the elderly when it comes to health care, what good is
it? You can reach the AARP at:
and members of congress need AARP for what reason? they have the best plan on earth for retirement!
paid for by who?
case
the case, minus a few cans!

Report
Dannie
Archived post

13 January 2004, 03:09 UTC #5

I'm from NJ & Lautenberg is a fill in for Torrecelli who resigned under scandal. He is a multi
millionaire & doesn't need SS as do many other millionaires. Corzine is another multi multi
millionaire who if he ever took SS would call it chump change. I'm a retired AARP member and I'll
take whatever the government gives in the way of medicine benefits. The Dems have had plenty of tim
e to do something aside from blaming the Republicans and it's now sour grapes. Ted Kennedy is still
trying to master swimming lessons. Dan
"Don Stevens" <[email hidden]> wrote in message "]news:[email hidden]...
Quoted message said:
You answered the question in your first sentence! That the Democrates have worked for "YEARS" for
a RX bill.
If it takes that long to come up with a bill then they are real dumb!!!

Plus
Quoted message said:
they can't even agree among themselves on a 'good' Bill
A bird in hand is worth two in the bush!!!!!! don
"Peanutjake" <[email hidden]> wrote in message -"]news:[email hidden]-
berlin.de...
Quoted message said:
I receved this email from a friend in New Jersey PJ
-----------------------------------------------------
For years, Democratic lawmakers have been working to make sure that seniors have access to
prescription drugs and reasonable healthcare. Now, in an attempt to score political points, the
Republican Congressional leadership is pushing through a bill that appears to offer a solution.
Actually, the bill undermines the entire Medicare program, pushing people into the very HMOs
which contribute heavily to Republican lawmakers and barring the government from negotiating for
lower drug prices.
Given the danger to seniors, one might expect that the millions-strong American Association of
Retired People (AARP) to be on the case. But after huge contributions from pharmaceutical
companies and HMOs, and pressure from Republican lawmakers, the AARP is selling out its
membership and backing the bill.
In response, 85 members of Congress (so far) have canceled their AARP memberships, or announced
that they will never join (if they're not yet old enough to be eligible). [1] Today, we urge you
to do the same. If the AARP won't stand up for the elderly when it comes to health care, what
good is it? You can reach the AARP at:
NJ Branch: 609-987-0744 National hotline: 1-800-424-3410
If you're a member, tell them you're quitting.
If you're too young to be eligible, tell them you'll never join.
You also may want to let your Representative and Senators know that you're keeping the AARP
accountable. You could also tell them that you expect them to demand real health care reform --
not this industry-backed bill.
You can reach your members of Congress at:
Representative Donald M. Payne DC Phone: 202-225-3436
Senator Frank Lautenberg DC Phone: 202-224-3224
Senator Jon S. Corzine DC Phone: 202-224-4744
Please let us know how you feel about this -- we're collecting individual comments to share with
the media, at:
moveon.orgaarp.html
The AARP has endorsed a bill that would make two fundamental changes in Medicare:
1. First, it would force people to make a stark choice: either pay sharply increased premiums to
stay in traditional Medicare, where they can choose their doctor; or be forced out, into an
HMO.
Newt Gingrich, the former House Republican leader, said in 1995 that he wanted to let
Medicare to "wither on the vine." This change would lead to that result, with cost incentives
driving people out. (Not coincidentally, AARP CEO William Novelli recently wrote the forward
to Gingrich's book. [2])
2. Second, it offers a prescription drug benefit, but requires people
who want this coverage to buy it from private insurance plans.
This part of the bill also bars the government from doing the one thing it could do to
actually reduce the cost of these drugs -- negotiate for lower prices, using the size of the
Medicare program as leverage. Drug prices are soaring now, and unless they're brought under
control, they will eventually bankrupt Medicare.
AARP itself sells insurance and also sells prescription drugs, so the group stands to reap
huge financial gains from this change.
The bill has been opposed by a host of liberal groups [3] as well as by major conservative
groups, including the Club for Growth, The Heritage Foundation, the American Conservative Union,
The Cato Institute, and the National Taxpayers Union. It's also been assailed by virtually every
one of the Democratic presidential candidates. [4]
In endorsing this bill, the AARP has broken faith with its members. In a recent poll, 65% of
AARP members said they're opposed to it. [5] The group has also violated its own written
principles. In July, CEO William Novelli wrote to Congress stating the requirements for AARP's
support of a Medicare bill. [6] Yet the bill AARP has just endorsed fails to meet nine separate
requirements stated in that letter. [7]
We need to hold the AARP responsible for selling out its members. If the organization sees
sufficient backlash from its members and prospective members, it could still change course and
effect the outcome of this legislation. Please call your local AARP branch today.
Sincerely, --Carrie, Eli, James, Joan, Noah, Peter, Wes, and Zack The MoveOn.org Team November
20th, 2003
-----
[1] 85 Representatives wrote to Novelli, canceling their memberships:
moveon.orgHouseAARPletter.pdf [2] From the foreword by Novelli to Gingrich's new
book, "Saving Lives and Saving Dollars".
[3] See moveon.orgmedicare.html for a complete list of organizations.
[4] See: washingtonpost.comA54358 2003Nov17.html
[5] Poll: a majority of AARP members oppose the Medicare bill:
moveon.orgMedicaresurveypr.pdf
[6] AARP July letter on minimum acceptable standards aarp.orga2003 08 18
drugbenefitinmedicare.html
[7] How AARP goes back on its word
house.govDocument AARP Priorities 11 17 03.html
[8]aarp.orga2002 12 18 aarpfactsheet.html

Report
Guy
Archived post

13 January 2004, 03:09 UTC #6

A Protest without a plan or goal is an exercise in futility. Find out who is your enemy and put some
money where your mouth is, Politicians must get reelected to do harm. Think, investigate, and select
the person to support. That is what the fat cats do to get what they want. Protests are mostly show
business. Even cheap show business
Guy
On Thu, 20 Nov 2003 19:55:51 -0500 (EST), [email hidden] (IF YOU CAN'T SWIM DON'T JUMP
IN) said:

More on the Drug Bill
In response, 85 members of Congress (so far) have cancelled their AARP memberships, or announced
that they will never join (if they're not yet old enough to be eligible). [1] Today, we urge you to
do the same. If the AARP won't stand up for the elderly when it comes to health care, what good is
it? You can reach the AARP at:
Quoted message said:
and members of congress need AARP for what reason? they have the best plan on earth for retirement!
paid for by who?
case
the case, minus a few cans!

Report
Sleepyman
Archived post

13 January 2004, 03:09 UTC #7

Guy said:

A Protest without a plan or goal is an exercise in futility. Find out who is your enemy and put
some money where your mouth is, Politicians must get reelected to do harm. Think, investigate, and
select the person to support. That is what the fat cats do to get what they want. Protests are
mostly show business. Even cheap show business
Guy
Protests Work! If he were still alive, you could ask Trickie Dickie. They are often the most
effective way to get a point across. How many people is this country think AARP is a true
representative of the Senior population, and their endorsement of this shameful bill represents the
view of the majority of people on Medicare? Way too many I would be willing to bet, considering the
amount of news coverage their endorsement got. They represent nobody but themselves. When the rich
boys throw us a bone, at least be nice enough to leave some meat on it. News coverage is the best
way to get a point across. In this case, the best way to get that coverage is to get out there. Plus
those who are going to vote on this piece of "legislation" need to know how you feel about it. Use
your Constitutional rights to free speech, and get on your US Senators, and Representatives too.
That is vital.
Sleepy
--------------------------------------------------
If you think nobody cares, try missing a couple of payments.
--------------------------------------------------

Report
Ray Bowler
Archived post

13 January 2004, 03:13 UTC #8

I> > For years, Democratic lawmakers have been working to make
Quoted message said:
Quoted message said:
sure that seniors have access to prescription drugs and reasonable healthcare.
Obviously if left to the Dems you would wait for many more years. At least you are getting
something.... BJ

The Senate Democrats and Republicans had a good bill passed then the House Republicans destroyed it.
The reason we haven't had a good bill in the past years is because of the insurance industry
lobbying expecially in the last 9 years of Republican control.
--
See ya,
--Ray B.
Live near Des Moines, IA, USA [email hidden]

Report
Guy
Archived post

13 January 2004, 03:13 UTC #9

On Sat, 22 Nov 2003 16:53:58 GMT, Ray Bowler <[email hidden]>
Quoted message said:
I> > For years, Democratic lawmakers have been working to make
Quoted message said:
Quoted message said:
sure that seniors have access to prescription drugs and reasonable healthcare.
Obviously if left to the Dems you would wait for many more years. At least you are getting
something.... BJ

The Senate Democrats and Republicans had a good bill passed then the House Republicans destroyed
it. The reason we haven't had a good bill in the past years is because of the insurance industry
lobbying expecially in the last 9 years of Republican control.
To be fair, the lobbyists operate on both sides of the aisle.
The present squabble is over who gets credit in the next election..
Only dreamers think we will win over the drug industry cartel.
Have not seen any cheap diamonds recently.
I have quit worrying about it. If I live too long I will be destitute.. But I will set by the road
and see nice cars go by. If yo think you are saving for the old age problems, think again, Some one
will find a way to take it. And tell you how lucky you are to have them "helping" you.
Guy

Report
Nospam
Archived post

13 January 2004, 03:17 UTC #10

This is a wonderful new bill that will give the elderly access to drugs they can't get now. For less
than one thousand a year they can have coverage and a card to get discounts. Up to three thousand
dollars they will get a return of 75% after that they are on there on. There are really no people
who would use $3000 a year in drugs. If so they should go to the charity hospitals and other free
sources for their care and medicantions and not become a drain on the economy of those who plan for
our futures. Mary Belle Bistoury's mother house sitting for two more days and setting it straight.
Peanutjake said:
I receved this email from a friend in New Jersey PJ
-----------------------------------------------------
For years, Democratic lawmakers have been working to make sure that seniors have access to
prescription drugs and reasonable healthcare. Now, in an attempt to score political points, the
Republican Congressional leadership is pushing through a bill that appears to offer a solution.
Actually, the bill undermines the entire Medicare program, pushing people into the very HMOs which
contribute heavily to Republican lawmakers and barring the government from negotiating for lower
drug prices.
Given the danger to seniors, one might expect that the millions-strong American Association of
Retired People (AARP) to be on the case. But after huge contributions from pharmaceutical
companies and HMOs, and pressure from Republican lawmakers, the AARP is selling out its membership
and backing the bill.
In response, 85 members of Congress (so far) have canceled their AARP memberships, or announced
that they will never join (if they're not yet old enough to be eligible). [1] Today, we urge you
to do the same. If the AARP won't stand up for the elderly when it comes to health care, what good
is it? You can reach the AARP at:
NJ Branch: 609-987-0744 National hotline: 1-800-424-3410
If you're a member, tell them you're quitting.
If you're too young to be eligible, tell them you'll never join.
You also may want to let your Representative and Senators know that you're keeping the AARP
accountable. You could also tell them that you expect them to demand real health care reform --
not this industry-backed bill.
You can reach your members of Congress at:
Representative Donald M. Payne DC Phone: 202-225-3436
Senator Frank Lautenberg DC Phone: 202-224-3224
Senator Jon S. Corzine DC Phone: 202-224-4744
Please let us know how you feel about this -- we're collecting individual comments to share with
the media, at:
moveon.orgaarp.html
The AARP has endorsed a bill that would make two fundamental changes in Medicare:
1. First, it would force people to make a stark choice: either pay sharply increased premiums
to stay in traditional Medicare, where they can choose their doctor; or be forced out, into
an HMO.
Newt Gingrich, the former House Republican leader, said in 1995 that he wanted to let Medicare
to "wither on the vine." This change would lead to that result, with cost incentives driving
people out. (Not coincidentally, AARP CEO William Novelli recently wrote the forward to
Gingrich's book. [2])
2. Second, it offers a prescription drug benefit, but requires people
who want this coverage to buy it from private insurance plans.
This part of the bill also bars the government from doing the one thing it could do to actually
reduce the cost of these drugs -- negotiate for lower prices, using the size of the Medicare
program as leverage. Drug prices are soaring now, and unless they're brought under control,
they will eventually bankrupt Medicare.
AARP itself sells insurance and also sells prescription drugs, so the group stands to reap huge
financial gains from this change.
The bill has been opposed by a host of liberal groups [3] as well as by major conservative groups,
including the Club for Growth, The Heritage Foundation, the American Conservative Union, The Cato
Institute, and the National Taxpayers Union. It's also been assailed by virtually every one of the
Democratic presidential candidates. [4]
In endorsing this bill, the AARP has broken faith with its members. In a recent poll, 65% of AARP
members said they're opposed to it. [5] The group has also violated its own written principles. In
July, CEO William Novelli wrote to Congress stating the requirements for AARP's support of a
Medicare bill. [6] Yet the bill AARP has just endorsed fails to meet nine separate requirements
stated in that letter. [7]
We need to hold the AARP responsible for selling out its members. If the organization sees
sufficient backlash from its members and prospective members, it could still change course and
effect the outcome of this legislation. Please call your local AARP branch today.
Sincerely, --Carrie, Eli, James, Joan, Noah, Peter, Wes, and Zack The MoveOn.org Team November
20th, 2003
-----
[1] 85 Representatives wrote to Novelli, canceling their memberships:
moveon.orgHouseAARPletter.pdf [2] From the foreword by Novelli to Gingrich's new
book, "Saving Lives and Saving Dollars".
[3] See moveon.orgmedicare.html for a complete list of organizations.
[4] See: washingtonpost.comA54358 2003Nov17.html
[5] Poll: a majority of AARP members oppose the Medicare bill:
moveon.orgMedicaresurveypr.pdf
[6] AARP July letter on minimum acceptable standards aarp.orga2003 08 18
drugbenefitinmedicare.html
[7] How AARP goes back on its word
house.govDocument AARP Priorities 11 17 03.html
[8]aarp.orga2002 12 18 aarpfactsheet.html

Report
Uraqt2
Archived post

13 January 2004, 03:18 UTC #11

I have news for you; if I am forced to pay the deductibles they say are in the bill I will have no
choice but to stop taking some of my medications for my diabetes and hypertension. This bill, like
most designed by Republicans, will only help people with money that don't really need it anyway.
--
Do not reply to the above email address. The address at the top is fictitious.
==============================================================================
Chuck
-ô¿ô-
~
email: [email hidden]
For psoriasis information go to: psoriasis.orgforum
nospam said:
This is a wonderful new bill that will give the elderly access to drugs
they can't get now. For less than one thousand a year they can have
coverage and a card to get discounts. Up to three thousand dollars they
will get a return of 75% after that they are on there on. There are
really no people who would use $3000 a year in drugs. If so they should
go to the charity hospitals and other free sources for their care and
medicantions and not become a drain on the economy of those who plan for
our futures.
Mary Belle
Bistoury's mother house sitting for two more days and setting it straight.

Report
Mack
Archived post

13 January 2004, 03:18 UTC #12

On Mon, 24 Nov 2003 18:36:15 GMT, nospam <[email hidden]>
Quoted message said:
This is a wonderful new bill that will give the elderly access to drugs they can't get now. For
less than one thousand a year they can have coverage and a card to get discounts. Up to three
thousand dollars they will get a return of 75% after that they are on there on. There are really no
people who would use $3000 a year in drugs. If so they should go to the charity hospitals and other
free sources for their care and medicantions and not become a drain on the economy of those who
plan for our futures. Mary Belle
thank you for showing how little you understand the issue.
Mack Type 1 since 1975 alt-support-diabetes.orgalt-support-diabetes.org insulin-pumpers.orginsulin-pumpers.org
In tribute to the United States of America and the State of Israel, two bastions of strength in a
world filled with strife and terrorism.

Report
Hi_therre
Archived post

13 January 2004, 03:18 UTC #13

On Mon, 24 Nov 2003 18:36:15 GMT, nospam <[email hidden]>
Quoted message said:
This is a wonderful new bill that will give the elderly access to drugs they can't get now. For
less than one thousand a year they can have coverage and a card to get discounts. Up to three
thousand dollars they will get a return of 75% after that they are on there on. There are really no
people who would use $3000 a year in drugs. If so they should go to the charity hospitals and other
free sources for their care and medicantions and not become a drain on the economy of those who
plan for our futures. Mary Belle Bistoury's mother house sitting for two more days and setting it
straight.

Man you are screwed up in the head.

Report
Bj In Texas
Archived post

13 January 2004, 03:18 UTC #14

Ray Bowler said:
Quoted message said:
Quoted message said:
For years, Democratic lawmakers have been working to make sure that seniors have access to
prescription drugs and reasonable healthcare.
Obviously if left to the Dems you would wait for many more years. At least you are getting
something.... BJ

The Senate Democrats and Republicans had a good bill passed then the House Republicans destroyed
it. The reason we haven't had a good bill in the past years is because of the insurance industry
lobbying expecially in the last 9 years of Republican control.
The Dems had control for 40+ years and nothing was done.. BJ

Report
Nospam
Archived post

13 January 2004, 03:18 UTC #15

Perhaps you haven't noticed but one has ever been promised a free ride. All these liberals want is
free access to everything that the rest of us have worked for and saved for. I have no intention of
supporting anyone else who reufuses to plan for their future. I also hope the soon privatise Social
Security so they can stop robbing my husbands income and the indome of the nine children. No one has
been promised anything...do you get that picture. Few years back no one had any of these
entitlements and Medicine was great. You can't plan you don't get a free ride. Mary Belle,
Bistoury's mother house sitting for two more days and setting it straight.
Mack said:
nospam said:
This is a wonderful new bill that will give the elderly access to drugs they can't get now. For
less than one thousand a year they can have coverage and a card to get discounts. Up to three
thousand dollars they will get a return of 75% after that they are on there on. There are really
no people who would use $3000 a year in drugs. If so they should go to the charity hospitals and
other free sources for their care and medicantions and not become a drain on the economy of those
who plan for our futures. Mary Belle
thank you for showing how little you understand the issue.
Mack Type 1 since 1975 alt-support-diabetes.orgalt-support-diabetes.org insulin-pumpers.orginsulin-pumpers.org
In tribute to the United States of America and the State of Israel, two bastions of strength in a
world filled with strife and terrorism.

Report
Bj
Archived post

13 January 2004, 03:18 UTC #16

"URAQT2" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
"]news:[email hidden]...
Quoted message said:
I have news for you; if I am forced to pay the deductibles they say are in

the bill I will have no choice but to stop taking some of my medications for my diabetes and
hypertension.
Quoted message said:
How are you paying for the meds now? And how would the bill change that? bj

Report
W. Baker
Archived post

13 January 2004, 03:18 UTC #17

In alt.support.diabetes BJ in Texas <[email hidden]> wrote:
: Ray Bowler wrote:
: >>> For years, Democratic lawmakers have been working to make sure that seniors have access to
: >>> prescription drugs and reasonable healthcare.
: >>
: >> Obviously if left to the Dems you would wait for many more years. At least you are getting
: >> something.... BJ
: >>
: > The Senate Democrats and Republicans had a good bill passed then the House Republicans destroyed
: > it. The reason we haven't had a good bill in the past years is because of the insurance industry
: > lobbying expecially in the last 9 years of Republican control.
: The Dems had control for 40+ years and nothing was done.. BJ
Well, they passed the original Medicare bill over the loud objections of the Republicans, and, if I
recall correctly, the American Medical Association. At that time meds were not a big part of medical
care, so the were ot included.
Wendy

Report
Herman Rubin
Archived post

13 January 2004, 03:18 UTC #18

In article said:
In alt.support.diabetes BJ in Texas <[email hidden]> wrote:
: Ray Bowler wrote:
: >>> For years, Democratic lawmakers have been working to make sure that seniors have access to
: >>> prescription drugs and reasonable healthcare.
Quoted message said:
: >> Obviously if left to the Dems you would wait for many more years. At least you are getting
: >> something.... BJ
Quoted message said:
: > The Senate Democrats and Republicans had a good bill passed then the House Republicans
: > destroyed it. The reason we haven't had a good bill in the past years is because of the
: > insurance industry lobbying expecially in the last 9 years of Republican control.
Quoted message said:
: The Dems had control for 40+ years and nothing was done.. BJ
Quoted message said:
Well, they passed the original Medicare bill over the loud objections of the Republicans, and, if I
recall correctly, the American Medical Association. At that time meds were not a big part of
medical care, so the were ot included.
At least in retrospect, Medicare has been a calamity. It, and the major increase in prepaid health
plans, mistakenly called "insurance", are large causes of rising medical costs. The claim that
Medicare has low overhead is false; it is true that the government has low overhead, but the amount
of paperwork and clerical work required is high. It is pure welfare as the amount received is not
related to what has been contributed. And part of the cost is due to the fact that much of the work
done is prepaid.
--
This address is for information only. I do not claim that these views are those of the Statistics
Department or of Purdue University. Herman Rubin, Department of Statistics, Purdue University
[email hidden] Phone: (765)494-6054 FAX: (765)494-0558

Report
Nospam
Archived post

13 January 2004, 03:18 UTC #19

What do you expect from a bunch of liberals. They only want to get bills passed for minorities. The
liberals hate white people and work only for the others. Mary Belle
BJ in Texas said:
Ray Bowler said:
Quoted message said:
>For years, Democratic lawmakers have been working to make sure that seniors have access to
>prescription drugs and reasonable healthcare.
Obviously if left to the Dems you would wait for many more years. At least you are getting
something.... BJ
The Senate Democrats and Republicans had a good bill passed then the House Republicans destroyed
it. The reason we haven't had a good bill in the past years is because of the insurance industry
lobbying expecially in the last 9 years of Republican control.
The Dems had control for 40+ years and nothing was done.. BJ

Report
Ronnie Ruff
Archived post

13 January 2004, 03:18 UTC #20

nospam said:
Perhaps you haven't noticed but one has ever been promised a free ride. All these liberals want is
free access to everything that the rest of us have worked for and saved for. I have no intention
of supporting anyone else who reufuses to plan for their future.
You mam are a liar. In this very group you say on Thanksgiving you will be giving food to the needy.
Why? They did not plan for their future.

Report

Active in the last 60 minutes

Active in this thread

0 users · 0 guests ·0 bots ·0 total

No signed-in users are active right now.

No known search crawlers active right now.

Jump through the discussion

What we know about this thread

Continue through CyclingForums

Active in this thread