We try to stay away from political discussions on this blog…there are enough disputed issues at the intersection of law and medicine!
However, I couldn’t resist passing along an article from “McKnight’s Long Term Care News and Assisted Living.” I rarely, almost never, agree with the positions taken by this pro-nursing home industry rag.
The article discusses President Obama’s April 13 comments regarding his plan to cut the nation’s deficit by $4 trillion in 12 years. I am all in favor of cutting the deficit and dramatic actions need to be taken now. But we need to keep our heads (hear that Tea Party members!)and appreciate that every cut does carry consequences. Many proponents of spending cuts argue vehemently for dramatic cuts to Medicaid and Medicare. Okay, but keep in mind that the Medicaid and Medicare programs are the source of about four-fifths (80%) of all payments to nursing homes.
My Question: What will happen to those 8 out of 10 nursing home residents if they lose their Medicare or Medicaid benefits?