On Tuesday, U.S. Senator Susan Collins met with members of the Maine AARP. The group thanked Senator Collins for her recent support of Senate legislation to amend Medicare requirements as they relate to physicians’ fees. The group was particularly thankful for the Senator’s support of provisions to improve Medicare preventative health care benefits and expand low-income Medicare subsidies.
President Bush vetoed the Senate legislation, but that veto was overridden by the House and Senator on Tuesday, July 15th.
“I was pleased to meet with the Maine members of AARP and was glad to hear from them regarding this important legislation,” said Senator Collins. “As a supporter of this crucial legislation I was extremely disappointed that the President vetoed the bill, but relieved that Congress voted to overturn this veto. This bill will block the deep cuts in Medicare physician payments that otherwise will go into effect, threatening to undermine access to needed health care for millions of Medicare patients.”
“The final bill also increases Medicare payments to rural physicians and hospitals, which will help to increase access to care in underserved areas. And it further strengthens Medicare by expanding coverage for important prevention benefits, increasing assistance for low-income seniors, and making mental health coverage more affordable.”
Photo (L to R): Nancy Kelleher, Elinor Goldblatt, Senator Collins, Nelson Megna