Washington, DC – Congresswoman Donna F. Edwards (D-MD) pushed back against Republican attacks today by stating that health care reform will actually significantly expand coverage and lower costs for seniors.

“Health reform will benefit our nation’s seniors by strengthening Medicare, closing the “donut hole” to lower seniors’ prescription drug costs, and improving the coordination and quality of care,” stated Congresswoman Edwards. “Reform will also expand home and community-based services to offer people the option to stay in their own homes and out of nursing centers.”

Each year, 3,700 beneficiaries in Maryland’s 4^th Congressional District enter the Part D donut hole and are forced to pay full price for prescription drugs. Under the Democrats health reform plan, these beneficiaries will receive a $250 rebate in 2010, 50% discounts on brand name drugs beginning in 2011, and complete closure of the donut hole within a decade. A typical beneficiary who enters the donut hole will see savings of over $700 in 2011 and over $3,000 by 2020.

“Health care reform builds on 44 years of strong democratic support for Medicare,” said Congresswoman Edwards. “When we pass this legislation, seniors can be assured that reform will reduce costs, improve their quality of care, and protect Medicare for theirs and future generations. Seniors have always counted on the staunch support of Medicare from Democrats, and they can do so once more when it comes to health care reform.”

In total, 71,000 Medicare beneficiaries in the 4^th Congressional District will experience improved coverage.

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