Adding to a broken system will not work. HCFA must work with Congress in reforming its own rules and regulations so prescription drug benefits can be offered and financed in a way not to place the entire Medicare system in financial jeopardy. Congress ought to consider giving every senior access to a prescription drug benefit as a part of Medicare. Congress must do everything it can to help those who can't afford the medicine they need, as the cost of prescription medicine is a real problem for some Montana seniors. I believe that long-term care in the United States is rapidly approaching a crisis.
Modern medicine works miracles by helping people lead longer, more full lives.
At the same time, unfortunately, most Americans are unprepared for the hardships of providing long-term care for themselves or a loved one. I believe that the federal government should encourage individuals to purchase long-term care insurance by extending refundable tax credits to all Americans. These tax credits will help low and middle income people afford the cost of long-term care insurance. I also believe that the government should help those who care for elderly family members in their homes. We must ensure that Montanans receive quality care at all times.