“First, no one over age 55 will be affected by any proposed changes to Medicare. Second, just as every member of Congress does now, those under 55 will have the option — if they wish — to purchase health plans that reflect their tastes and preferences, rather than a single plan dictated by our masters in Washington. Third, based on their economic needs, the federal government will provide financial assistance to help them buy such coverage. The rich will get less help; the poor will get more. Fourth, any senior who finds this unattractive is welcome to remain in Medicare as we know it.”
-Deroy Murdock, 11-Aug-12 (Link)
HR, is there an element in this Ryan-Wyden plan that makes it either illegal or unprofitable for the insurance companies to cherry-pick the healthier seniors and leave the sicker ones for traditional Medicare? I basically DO like the plan but it really would help to know the answer to this question prior to being more fully behind it.
ReplyDeleteWill, I honestly don't know. I know the plan offers a choice so that an individual can choose to purchase coverage on their own, or choose traditional Medicare.
ReplyDeleteLet's say your scenario plays out. No insurance company offers to cover the individual. S/he can simply go into traditional Medicare. The more likely scenario is that coverage will be offered but at a cost that is too high for the individual. Same outcome: traditional Medicare.
It's not conservative to make it illegal, as you suggest. We don't like to force companies to take customers they may not want or can't serve and stay in business. That's a progressive thing to do.