Members of the Minnesota Senior Federation-led Medicare Justice Coalition met with Sen. Norm Coleman to express our concerns about the long-standing geographical inequity problems with Medicare funding, pending 10 percent cuts to physicians, and complexities of Medicare Part D. The senator indicated that he shared our concerns. He stated that he would be drafting a dear colleague letter to Chairman Max Baucus (D-MT) and Ranking Member Chuck Grassley (R-IA), asking them to ensure that “any changes in funding to the Medicare Advantage program not disproportionately affect Medicare beneficiaries who reside in states, like Minnesota, that have traditionally provided high-quality, low-cost health care services.”

He further stated “Since all seniors contribute the same amount into the Medicare program, they deserve a similar array of product options at lower premiums regardless of their Zip code.”

In the course of the conversation he noted that the pending cut to Medicare physicians, slated to go into effect Jan. 1, would be devastating. He indicated he was sure Congress would fix the problem, but noted because no bill or budget fix had yet been drafted, the specific method of the fix remains to be seen.

As far as MnSF concerns about Medicare Part D, Coleman indicated that his staff would work with organizations like the Senior Federation to help people make the most appropriate selection of coverage during the upcoming Medicare open enrollment period, Nov. 15-Dec. 31.

In a postscript to our meeting, his staff has made arrangements to attend a number of the Senior Federation enrollment events to lend their assistance.