Since being signed into law, the Medicare and Medicaid programs have protected and saved the lives of seniors and people with disabilities for nearly six decades. In the spirit of the 59th anniversary of Medicare and Medicaid, here is a compilation of Medicare-related resources and articles we have shared with you in the past, plus some informative podcasts you can listen to!
Appealing Health Insurance Denials
Medical Bill Negotiating Service (a member-exclusive benefit!)
Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA) – a free, unbiased and confidential service that helps people with Medicare questions and options
RPEC On Air Episode 3 – Volunteer for SHIBA! – featuring SHIBA Program Manager Tim Smolen
How to become a SHIBA volunteer – get free training and education on all things Medicare and use your knowledge to help others to understand their Medicare options!
Social Security & Medicare Projected to Remain Solvent Longer than Previously Estimated
OIC Answers – a podcast from the Washington state Office of the Insurance Commissioner with several episodes about Medicare
Having these resources helps, but we must fight for a future where healthcare is recognized as a human right for all, not just top wage earners. There will always be an incentive to keep people sick and unhealthy so long as there are those who stand to profit from it. Protecting, expanding, and preventing the privatization of Medicare and supporting a federal government-sponsored universal health care program remain federal priorities for RPEC.
Want to get involved in the fight, but not sure where to start? Reach out to the Council Office or attend the new member webinar on July 26th to learn more about the variety of ways you can contribute to help fulfill RPEC’s mission to unite retired public employees for their mutual benefit and welfare.