For example, traditional Medicare lacks many essential benefits that older Americans and disabled people need, such as vision, dental, and hearing care, as well as long-term or home care. While Medicare Advantage offers some of these benefits, it has faced criticism for unfairly denying care and being overly costly. It has even been the target of federal fraud investigations.
Conservatives have proposed further privatization of Medicare by implementing "default enrollment" in Medicare Advantage. The president-elect, Donald Trump, promised "no cuts" to the program in the official Republican platform, but the details remain unclear.
For instance, in terms of healthcare access and outcomes, the US has the most expensive health system in the world. Despite the high prices, it performs poorly on metrics such as health equity, accessibility, and outcomes. Rising costs are forcing many older Americans to pay more out of pocket, which leads to delayed care, poorer health, and higher long-term spending.
Data from the Commonwealth Fund's international survey of older adults shows that almost a quarter of older adults in the US spent $2,000 or more on healthcare in the past year, compared to less than 5% in France and the Netherlands. Similarly, older adults in the US reported the highest levels of cost barriers to care, although less than 10% actually encountered such barriers. In contrast, one in five older adults in the US, Australia, and Canada reported skipping needed dental care, while in the Netherlands and Germany, the rate was less than 5%. Less than 5% of adults in all countries reported skipping needed mental health care due to cost.
It becomes evident that different countries have different approaches to healthcare for older adults. Some countries have managed to provide better access and affordability, while others still face challenges. Understanding these differences can help inform policy decisions and improve healthcare for older Americans.
Overall, this study emphasizes the importance of Medicare for older adults in the US but also highlights the need to address the challenge of affording needed care. By examining these issues in detail, we can work towards finding solutions to improve the healthcare situation for older Americans.
At around 6:45 a.m., Thompson was set to speak at the investor meeting when a shooter opened fire. The shooter fled on foot and later took an e-bike into Central Park. Despite the efforts of the New York Police Department, the shooter remains at large as of late morning, and no arrests have been made. Although officials suspect the attack was targeted, the motive remains unknown.
Thompson was rushed to a hospital but unfortunately, his life could not be saved. The Hilton, where the incident took place, is in a bustling area of Manhattan, close to tourist sites like the Museum of Modern Art and Rockefeller Center. On a weekday morning, it is often filled with tourists and office workers.
UnitedHealthcare is the insurance arm of the healthcare giant UnitedHealth Group Inc. Based in Minnetonka, Minnesota, the company was scheduled to have its annual meeting with investors in New York City to update Wall Street on its future direction and expectations. An early end to the conference was announced to attendees on Wednesday morning.
It is the largest provider of Medicare Advantage plans in the U.S. and manages health insurance coverage for employers and state-and federally funded Medicaid programs. The company has a significant presence and impact in the healthcare industry.
New York City officials, including Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch and Governor Kathy Hochul, have expressed their shock and condemnation. Mayor Eric Adams stated that police are reviewing evidence from the scene, including video, in an effort to apprehend the shooter.
Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz also tweeted, sending prayers to Brian's family and the UnitedHealthcare team. He described the news as horrifying and a terrible loss for the Minnesota business and healthcare community.
The block where the shooting took place was cordoned off with police tape, and a large number of police officers were present at the scene. Many security cameras in the vicinity may provide valuable clues for the investigation.
Thompson had served as CEO for over three years and had been with the company since 2004. His leadership and contributions will be remembered in the company and the industry.