American Morning
Lobbying for Your Health: 150,000 seniors in revolt
Editor's Note: Lobbyists have spent hundreds of millions of dollars trying to influence the health care debate in this country. By some counts, there were six health care lobbyists for every member of Congress. In part three of the American Morning original series, "Lobbying for Your Health," Carol Costello looks at the AARP's contentious role in the debate.
By Bob Ruff and Carol Costello
November 5, 2009. That's the day the AARP endorsed the House health care bill. With nearly 40 million members, it's not surprising that the president quickly came before cameras in the White House to thank the AARP for its endorsement.
That AARP endorsement wasn't universally applauded by all of the organization's millions of members. The organization admits it has lost 150,000 members since the endorsement but says that's been offset by more than 2-million new or renewed memberships.
Some, like Robert Tice, feel the AARP is out of touch with its members by focusing so much on selling insurance. He says he will let his AARP membership lapse without renewal because he doesn't like what they're up to.
"The letters don't mean American Association of Retired Persons," he told CNN's Carol Costello. "It just means AARP. It's just a name. ... The AARP is about insurance. People need to know that. AARP is not out there to help you."
In fact, the AARP brands several types of insurance, including health policies with United Healthcare. By endorsing so many insurance policies the organization brought in around $650 million dollars last year in premiums. That's almost three times what it took in from membership dues.
Republicans say the AARP's endorsement of the House health bill is more about supporting its insurance business than anything else. They point to the organization's acquiescence to billions of dollars in cuts to the Medicare Advantage Plans, which AARP and other insurers offer as private alternatives to Medicare that often includes extra medical coverage like dental and vision care.
According to the Congressional Budget Office, some suggested cuts in the program might make it so unattractive that millions of Americans could be forced out because the plan's benefits would shrink. It is also possible that some insurance companies would stop offering Medicare Advantage policies altogether because it would be far less profitable.
So, why would the AARP support cuts to Medicare Advantage? Rep. Phil Gingrey (R-GA) thinks he knows what the AARP is up to. Gingrey says the organization hopes that millions of seniors will move from Medicare Advantage to AARP's branded Medigap plan, which has far higher profit margins.
"The fewer people, seniors, that are on Medicare Advantage and back into Medicare fee for service (Medigap)," Gingrey says, "the more opportunity AARP has to get royalty from the sale of Medigap policies." The AARP, says Gingrey, is the market leader in selling Medigap policies.
Carol Costello asked the AARP if any of this is true. The AARP's director of legislative policy, David Certner, says "it's not an issue we have lobbied on at all."
Certner says his organization supported cuts to Medicare Advantage to "trim the fat" so Medicare itself survives. "We understand there are financial issues with Medicare, and we need to save money for the Medicare program."
He adds that the AARP has fought to make sure the health care bill closes the gap in Medicare drug coverage, known as the "donut hole," an important issue for many seniors. But Robert Tice isn't convinced that the AARP won't put making profits ahead of its members.
"The AARP has a moral responsibility," he says, "to be more clear that they are an insurance broker primarily, and that's where they make the majority of their money."
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I don't believe anyone is listening! Tried e-mailing our local politicians to no avail. Doesn't anyone care what we think? Just more politics......for special interest. Evidently AARP is in that group.......
"Stop asking for handouts, Obama is ruining entire generations making them lazy and dependent on others"
They were lazy and dependent already – Obama is just rewarding them for it.
AARP is a scam and full of left wing self serving individuals. I tore up my card and have mailed back every piece of mail to the organization. I will continue to send it back and could careless about their organization. People better wake up and realize all that AARP does is take your money to pay the people on the top.
I have been a member of AARP for many many years. I no longer
am a member – I told them to tear of my membership and I don't
want anything else to do with them. How dare they speak for me
and all the other members of AARP.
if it smells bad it is bad....and this smells bad...if you link a politician to insurance for people it is bad !!!!
The current health care bill will not reduce costs, improve service or insure all citizens but let's call this reform. The Mao Clinic just canceled coverage for Medicare patients. Give me something I don't want along with something I don't need – perfect. When can I start paying?
The AARP needs membership money for influence in government. The AARP is a leading contributor to the anti-gun groups and are very much anti-Second Amendment, and they get the money to donate to these groups through unsuspecting members, many of whom are firearm owners and possibly NRA members. No good can come from the AARP in any form that is why I refuse to join such an organization.
After reading only a few of these comments, I am amazed that so many people race to form their opinions without thinking and seeking correct information but listening to others who probably have less. Where do you think the financial backing comes from to pay for all the benefits that AARP gives its members? It also requires money to lobby congress and try to help obtain and pass the laws that would best benefit the Seniors of this country. Many of you apparently have no idea what is in the bills pending Congress, especially the Health Care bill. Do not just listen to the fear mongerers or ill informed but take it upon yourself to find out.
I have not renewed my membership because I cannot trust anything they say. There use of United Healthcare is dangerous and could be very detrimental to the financial well being of the memgers. They have a plan that offers zero monthlly charge if you enroll. This plan has coverage for outpatient coverages with a co-pqy of 20% of the cost. If an operation cost $15,000 an insured share would be $3,000.. Other companies that charge $14.00 per month would have the insured pay approximately $250.00. I have also previously insured my house with them for a price $400.00 more than I paid elsewhere. I believe that they are a camouflaged insurance company.
I cancelled my membership over this issue and received a refund on the prorated portion of paid dues. I have been responsible for medical and retirement programs for a company with 2500 US employees. The AARP is out of touch with the needs of average Americans on these issues. They no longer "walk the talk" on their initial charter to protect seniors...
AARP took in $650 million in premiums!! I'd say that's good fiscal management. I didn't stop paying taxes just because I disagree with some of the current administration;s policies and I'm not dumping AARP. In this world, you take the good with the bad and just make sure you are not the bad. It's time for a reality check. Sure some are going to benefit more than others. Isn't that what a democracy is all about? You have your voice, not necessarily your way!!
Dropping out of the AARP for this issue would be like not donating to the Muscular Dystrophy campaign just because you don't like Jerry Lewis. AARP does a LOT of good as far as I can tell.
To Timmy and the rest who oppose the 'socialist' health care plans.... I am paying quite a bit for a medicare program they say won't exist when I am ready to retire. In fact, as a high earner, I have probably paid more than most of you whiners already... So tell me, In a capitalistic society, why should I pay for a program that won;t benefit me? You cry about how you put in money while working the last 30 years and you are owed something... Guess what, in a capitalist society, businesses fail... Tough luck.
Now, these people are trying to save the entire system, not just keep it around until the majority of those currently receiving benefits die off. While I am sure that is the only group you retirees care about, I don;t happen to enjoy paying simply to make sure your taken care of with no hope to collect any of those benefits myself.
Now, that being said, I don't really have a problem trying to help cover health care for my fellow americans... The price of living in a civilized society is how I look at it. The problem is that you only want your own needs met. Protect medicare, but to hell with those who can't afford insurance. If I had to choose, I would much rather my dollars go to cover children and those who are struggling to feed thier families than retirees only concerned with themselves.
Let's face it, EVERYBODY in this country is looking to line their pockets! It's the American way! We'll never learn. Some day we'll figure it out but not in my lifetime.
Relax....we can only take so much.....the good will come and destroy the bad,,,,,,keep an investigative eye on Obama and his group....they are working on our weaknesses now ...will get worse before its gets better....things will get better.
I really don't understand those people who are convinced that "going without Medical Insurance is part of the American Dream.” How immature can you be! How irresponsible! How depended you are and would be when going without medical insurance.... Just think! Use your brain! See the BIG picture.... on the short AND long term...
I received a note forwarded from one of these fox news seniors. It contained almost all of the fox news talking points to discredit AARP's support of the health bill. Like the sheep these people are they only take in what they hear on the TV and do not bother to read or analyse for themselves.
I have to admit I've been chucking the AARP mail in the trash up until now, but if all these nitwits are dumping their memberships solely for reasons of protest, then I will do likewise and sign up for reasons of support.
I have refused to join AARP because of there 'sell-out'. They no longer represent retired Americans, just like the government no longer represents its citizens.
This man is right. The AARP is an insurance company pretending to be a organization that represents the interests and needs elderly people. I will let my membership lapse. They are all about selling insurance and lining their pockets like every other insurance co.
Two points since my last posting. Yes 10 million Americans without healthcare will get it. What about the 150 million of us that have health care now? I pay $2400 a yr and my company covers the rest which is about 5 times more that I contribute. In 2007 my daughter and I had 4 surgeries costing approximately $500 K. My out of pocket thank god was capped at $5 K. If we get some social health care for the 10 million without coverage it will only be a matter of time before companies that currently provide medical care like mine drop it to save money and force most of us 150 million with current coverage onto the federal plan. In the end, we all end up on a federal heath insurance program that will bankrupt the country. Also in working with Canadians for most of my career (god bless them too, one of the USA’s few remaining allies), they end up in the USA for care. A friend in Ottawa had the choice of waiting two years for his wife to get a needed hip replacement or pay $60 K to cross the boarder and get it done. We’ll be there someday if we don’t get our head out of the sand.
TImmy, when was the last time you spent 9k to fill your gas tank?
A quick ER visit that lasted 14 hours, cost me that in the last year.
I am 57 years old and initially joined AARP when they sent me their obligatory invitation at age 50. I resigned the program just a year later and would have nothing to do with them.
AARP is nothing more than a 'for profit' political organization or PAC masquerading as an advocacy group. Their numerous corporate alliances, i.e. profit centers, are no different than a TV Evangelist. Wake up!!
The guy in the picture must be a genius to figure out the AARP is a scam directed at taking money from seniors. What a revelation.
Can we all at least agree maybe to control some costs.
– Smokers should definitely pay more towards healthcare costs
– Obese people should pay more in healthcare costs
– Those who do not get regular checkups should also pay more
I thik simple steps like these can really help. As someone who doesnt smoke and keeps in shape I dont think I should pay for someone who doesnt take care of themselves in a blatant fashion.
typical . Seniors like their government run Medicare, but only for the 65 and older, but "PLEASE" pull the ladder up behind you. "you got yours" screw everyone else. The american way
The benefits AARP provides are important to me, and although I understand that they have more than just my interests at heart, they provide essential services to all of its members. For that reason, I feel that this article should have maybe been approached from a different angle - the one from where the majority of its members stand. Of course, I also understand that CNN is trying to make something out of nothing here. A net gain of 1/2 million members and CNN makes it about the 150,000 who quit - lousy journalism!
I think pulling the extra funds that have been taken from Medicare to fatten the privately run advantage plans , is a good idea. I belonged to one of those plans for a year or so then went eagerly back to Medicare. They (the ad. plans) claim to cover more things for less money but fail to mention the restrictions placed on the receiver of those benefits. I did not feel I had the right to go to or change ph\yscians–must stay within a certain g roup. The doctors had to see so many patients that time alloted to each patient was kept to a minimum, all referrals had to be within the group, etc. I couldn't wait to return to Medicare and I feel I've saved money in the long run.
I was much more upset with AARP when they supported the Republican sponsored pharmacy plan., especially because they danced with the pharmacieutical companies by not allowing the government to work with them on reducing the cost of the drugs as the VA has done successfully...and I won't even go into the "doughbnut hole" on this one....what a boondoggle that is.
Anyway, I support the health care bill though think it should have included a public option. Its appalling that millions of people do not get health care and the US is so far down o n the list of countries in health and mortality rates. We should be ashamed!
There will always be naysayers who oppose change. There is no way the elderly will lose under these reforms and this is just another scare tactic like the "death panels" that were said to be part of the bill. The Republicans will always try to stall or stop any social program no matter how beneficial it is to the citizens because Republican prostiticians always favor the monied special interests. Remember when Boehner passed out checks from the tobacco companies on the floor of the House? I do.
So many angry Americans! I can understand that they are angry. I was also a very angry American for the eight years that Bush led our nation into bankruptcy and disdain throughout the world. We see quite a few angry Americans on camera most days on our news as they plan their tea parties, trash our President and the Democrats who are working hard to get us out of the many messes that the Repubglicans left behind. The huge public display of "angry Americans" are almost entirely Republicans who want more than anything to turn the tide of public opinion agains our Presaident and all Democrats so they have a better chance to get Republicans elected. We saw what the Republicans are capable of when they ran the U.S. Conress and the presidency. As a long-time AARP member, I am proud that they came out for Health Reform and hope that they stand steadfast against the relatively angry few who are determined to make as much hollow noise as possible. It is sad that so many people are willing to sacrifice what is best for our Country and ourselves to satisfy their narrow minded political outlook.
I disenrolled in AARP due to their support of healthcare bill. As a Denial Management Nurse who has worked in the healthcare industry for more than 20 years, I see daily what healthcare costs, what insurance companies do, what works and what does not. What the healthcare bill proposes to do is the same thing for the public option and healthcare that is not working now. They are offering nothing new.
I have went without healthcare at time due to changing jobs and paid for COBRA or went without until my new insurance coverage started. Why should I have to pay more in taxes or insurance premiums to pay for people who will not work, or save to pay for health coverage??? Our taxes will go up due to having to pay for all this and more. It is a joke that too many Americans are believing. Politicians who are supporting this do not even know what they are trying to pass and this is going to affect all of us, our children for ever. I should not have to take a reduction in my future Medicare benefits or pay more for other people who have not planned their lives well. If they cut Medicare 40% as they say, that reduction in monies paid to hospitals, doctors, etc is going to have to come from somewhere and it will come from us in the form of higher out of pocket expenses for medical care.
Its amazing how many ill informed people there are in this chat. I love how so many can attest to how much better our healthcare system is than in oter countries. Im sure the vast vast majority of you all have done no research on this and are just regurgitating right wing lines.
Some facts that you can interpret as you want:
– Life expectancy is longer in Canada, and its infant mortality rate is lower than that of the U.S.,
– the average life expectancy for Canadians was 80.34 years compared with 78.6 years for residents of the U.S.
-the U.S. spends more per capita than any other nation in the world, but is the only wealthy industrialized country in the world that lacks some form of universal health care
-In the World Health Organization's ratings of health care system performance among 191 member nations published in 2000, Canada ranked 30th and the U.S. 37th, while the overall health of Canadians was ranked 35th and Americans 72nd
AARP is nothing more than a marketing organization. Why would they defer their interests ahead of their members?
I have carred an AARP membership card for hotel/motel discounts. I've always felt that AARP allowed "favored" insurance companies to "cherry pick" it's membership, but I've tolerated that for discounts. No more. They are way out of touch with my views on health care insurance. I will let my membership expire without renewing it.
AARP is a terrible organization. I worked for them for almost 8 years, and I can state first-hand that the organization is made up of overpaid fatcats who have made a fine art out of taking money from people without offering anything of value in return. HOWEVER, healthcare reform is needed in this country. Most of the things that teabaggers use to scare people already exist. Death panels? Don't get a serious illness on most HMOs or you'll see a REAL death panel! Paying for deadbeats? Who do you think is paying for all of the people with no insurance and no money who show up at the emergency room? People who have insurance, that's who! The current system is NOT working. People who lose their jobs cannot afford healthcare. People do not start small businesses because they cannot get, or afford, individual policies. People who have jobs cannot afford premiums and deductibles. People who get sick get dropped by insurance companies when they have been paying their premiums. Think it can't happen to you? Think AGAIN! But even if it never does and you are healthy until you are 95, where's your compassion? All of these lies are being spread by insurance and pharmaceutical companies, through Republican lawmakers who are getting HUGE kickbacks to support their interests over their constituents, and these teabaggers are gullible enough to be the mouthpiece of all of this corporate self-interest and corruption. And some lawmakers are actually trying to look out for YOU, but like the scorpion on the back of the frog - you just can't help but sting the ones who are trying to help you. Even if it means you drown as a result.
I've been a member of AARP for many years, but when it runs out this time, I will not be renewing. AARP used to be for the seniors, but the story is true: AARP is now just out for itself – forget the seniors! Bye bye, AARP!
I, and many of my friends who just turned 50, are NOT joining AARP because of this. I have not cancelled my elderly mother's membership, since it would be too late to get her on another policy at age 87. As people die off, AARP's ranks will shrink, and they will not be replaced by the newest "seniors!"
AARP is not non-profit. Where do you think the money for all that advertising comes from and why do they need it? FOR PROFIT. Healthcare is on the backs of seniors. Mayo Clinic in Arizona has already stopped accepting Medicare patients. Those in their late 50's and early 60's will be hit hardest as by the time it all kicks in many other facilities will not accept Medicare and those coming into Medicare will be left with very poor healthcare for the remainder of their lives. Only those seniors with money to buy better insurance will be at an advantage. AARP has never really been for seniors.
Let's see – 40 million members of AARP and 150,000 disgruntled members who have been going to too many tea parties and listening to Beck and other conspiracy theorist. I would say AARP has been pretty successful in representing its members.
AARP is simply a liberal lobby org. now, nothing more. I'm a senior, they don't represent me.
The conflict of interest in AARP's dealing with the health care issue is outrageous. Where do most of AARP's funds come from? Sale os insurance. Who gets paid high salaries and consulting fees because of insurance revenues? AARP management and consultants. Even if it weren't for this obvious prejudice by AARP decision makers, they are also just flat wrong on the issues. Socializing America is wrong. Running a country based on a welfare culture is wrong.
My AARP membership expires next month - I will NOT renew due to AARP's position on healthcare.
Bravo AARP – we desperately need health care reform including a public option so everyone has access. Why do we care more about money than people? Just read some of the horror stories about how quickly a catastrophic illness can make you one of the working poor. Why should anyone be afraid and angry about change that benefits the good of all? Oh yes...I forgot...the money, but guess what...we're paying for it anyway thanks to the insurance industry. Wake up America
I was suckered into trusting AARP's claim that it offered it's members the cheapest auto insurance, until I discovered that it was not at all the cheapest (I saved about a hundred dollars a year by going with Progressive). I stopped being a member after that.
I don't know why anyone's surprised by this. The AARP has just as much to be concerned about in this healthcare debate as any of the insurance companies. As far as everyone chewing the Republicans out, give it a break. No one's against health care reform; people are just divided over how to go about that reform. The Democrats have a majority in the House and Senate so if the bill is having trouble then the Republicans really shouldn't be that big of a problem. The insurance companies aren't the only evil lobby in on this i.e. the trial lawyers. They contributed heavily to the Democrats and it explains why there is no mention of tort reform. Why is nobody talking about letting insurance compete across state lines? If some competition moved in prices would go down, that's pretty common sense. There are legitimate concerns with this bill and people who oppose are not evil, racist, rednecks, who just want people to die. For one how does this bill add a whole lot of people (it is supposed to cover pretty much everyone without insurance right?) without adding any new doctors. Rationing of some sort will have to move in over time. And a public option would probably be the worst thing that could happen for competition. Think about it, the government doesn't have to make a profit (look at our debt) so they can undercut any of the insurance agencies, and for many employers it would be cheaper to simply drop them off on the government plan than provide coverage. Eventually the govt. would be the only thing left, and I don't want that personally. If this bill is so great, why would taxes start immediately, but you won't see any benefits for several years. I think everyone should have access to healthcare but there are better ways to do it, and demonizing everyone who opposes you makes you the name-calling fearmonger doesn't it? I'm not astroturf or for one party or another, I can't even vote yet for crying out loud! It just bugs me to see something this important get so distorted, and to be quite honest I'm sick of politicians in general dumping off debt and problems on my generation.
so let me get this straight, timmy. you want big guv involved in gas prices because it effects YOU. what a typical republican – if it benefits you, it's the american dream. but if it benefits anyone else, then it's socialism. just another blowhard that thinks no one on earth works as hard as they do. what about the millions who work and can't afford health insurance. "let them eat cake", right? i can one-up you timmy. iwork 50 hours a week and my health insurance is paid 100% by my employer. and i still support healthcare reform – you know why? because it isn't all about me, and contrary to what you think – it isn't all about you either. it's about our great country that people like you and bush just about destroyed.
Everybody knows AARP became an insurance brokerage a few years back. Then it stopped being a senior citizen advocacy group. It can't be both, it's impossible. As an insurance agent they have to be kept at arm's length. Subscribers become "product" stop being members. Now, if you are looking for insurance it is in your best interest to let them quote because they do have some good prices. But beware and know exactly what they are offering for the money and DO NOT get fooled into thinking anything they tell you is gospel. They try to play on their past glory to make you think they are looking out for their members first and foremost.
AARP gave a nice quote for my insuarance and wanted me to take membership before I buy insurance. I took a 5 year membership and guess what I received a quote in mail which was much higher than what was discussed. I called them back and they have no clue why it went up. Now I just ignore them!!
For anyone who thinks the United States has the best health care, look up statistics on the CIA website. We are so far down the poll for infant mortality rates and longevity it's embarrassing. Canada is way above us. Many other countries are, too. Anyone who thinks the insurance companies are doing it better either have very good insurance and no chance of losing it or have never been sick. Shame on you.
I knew AARP could not be trusted years back when they supported the last Medicare legislative change that created a monster with "doughnut" hole and gigantic confusion on "A-Z" drug and insurance plans that a simpleton could see as a means to fool the seniors. Fool them they did.
Of course AARP members don't like it, they already get 'free' health care so don't have to worry about how to pay their medical bills like the rest of the country. Why would they support health care reform when they already have all of their medical needs paid for by the rest of the tax payers?
I as well as other AARP members received a letter from AARP asking me to sign a form and send it to my Senator in voting for the health care reform bill. I called AARP and ask them where is the bill your asking me to sign and approve? I was told !oh it is like 2200 pages long, I said so what? your asking people seniors to sign a letter to have this Bill aprroved and they have NO idea what there signing?? The asnwer was yes. I said who the hell gave you the right to make a vote on my behalf without me even reading the bill you ask me to support. I gave you NO such permission. I know people are dropping out, but the better way is to use what benifits like free legal advice and use it all up and hurt them where they want to hurt us. ( in the pocket ) These people are scamers at the top of the chain. AARP doesn't do a thing for me nor any seniors. They are praying on the seniors to fill there pockets. Everyone should use up what they have and drop out. These people are tied in with Obama and his scam crews. American Needs to vote every person in office OUT come next election and show them the people run THIS COUNTRY not the politicians. It is time the American people take back America.
Amazing how a Black person took over the AARP right after Obama was elected, Talk about one hand washing the other.....
While it is true that AARP sells insurance and, yes, they do benefit from such programs, what is wrong with that? AARP still holds true to its founding principle, which is "to enhance the quality of life for all as we age, leading positive social change and delivering value to members through information, advocacy and service". So if AARP sells insurance (hint: service) and makes a profit, yet still advocates for its members to get the best HCR policy possible, what is wrong with that?
I personally believe that AARP is holding true to its founding principle and I will remain a member. However, I also am smart enough to also realize that there is no free lunch. I need to make sure that I have alternative HC coverage since "Uncle Sam's " plan by itself will not be enough. Rest assured that with any HCR plan, the insurance companies of America will find a way to squeeze more out of its customer while giving as little as is possible; remember, they are not in business to protect or serve Americans, they are in business solely for profit, period!
If you want more, go out there and get it. That is what America is all about. Sure we paid into a simplistic system our entire working lives and we expect to get back something. However in today's tumultuous world, we must recognize that SS, Medicare, or Medicaid, was never meant to be our retirement /pension plans, they we intended to simply make sure we were not penniless and totally exposed when we retire.
If you want to have greater HC coverage, go back to work part-time, buy a supplemental plan or do without. The HCR plan being hacked in debate today is not the be all-end all, nor is your AARP membership.
As a cancer surviror, I realized that if I want to ensure that my wife and I are safe in our golden years, I need to do what I have to do in order to make sure that our well being is assured. That means I need to combine Medicare with a supplemental medical plan, factor in our savings, and do everything to take care of our health.
Get smart America. If you worry about HCR, do what you have to do to make sure you are protected. Stop criticizing AARP, they are not the enemy. If you want someone to criticize, look at most of Corporate America. Remember, it wasn't AARP that ended pensions or left millions in despair, that was corrupt leadership at many of the corporations you worked for your entire working life...
Why are we so concerned with AARP?? AARP or not, we direly need Health Care Reform!! Didn't so many people fight against Medicare and Social Security...why aren't we fighting against them anymore? As a matter of fact we want for Medicare and Social Security to be alive for us and for the next generations to come! Health Care Reform is going through the same phase of rejection pushed by political interests who don't care about our country but their own pockets!
Timmy, I can tell by your grammatical and spelling errors that you are a compassionate, well educated, well informed American.
In fact you're quite typical of many of the problems that plague our country today. With regard to health care reform, doesn't your Bible speak of having compassion for your fellow man?
You claim that Obama is destroying this country? Did you forget what George Bush, Dick Cheney and the Republican Party did over the last 8 years?. Obama only inherited the mess that the Bush Administration left behind!
Have you forget that Bush and Cheney led us into an unnecessary war on the basis of out right lies?
Just the money spent on the Iraqi war is enough to provide all American’s with health care.
You mention oil and gas prices, why not contact the Bush family who have extensive ties to the Saudi Royal family and ask them if they can reduce the price of oil just for you..?
Finally, please do us all a favor….READ YOUR HISTORY and get an education…
I dropped AARP for many of the reasons sited above. I didn't feel they were looking out for my interests, but rather their own bottom line. I belong to MOAA (Military Officers Assoc.) which is far more aligned with my views on health care. They do an excellent job of dealing with Congress on issues relating to Military retirees (read all retirees as an end result.)
If insurance, being access to healthcare, was so cheap and easy, like residential water access. Malpractice awards are unnecessary. Even in the most blatent of medical mishaps, they get medical treatment to correct the mistake or service the problem. Unfit doctors do need to be removed from the profession, but that doesn't mean its necessary to have a civil law system that sends the entire industry's expenses soaring outrageously out of control (and those expenses get passed back to you, the consumer, in higher premiums and charges for services).
MALPRACTICE IS THE PROBLEM.
From what I can see the seniors who have a problem with healthcare reform have no clue what its about or how its going to affect them..they are just regurgitating what the right wingers are feeding them. Just like the old guy at the town hall who hilariously said he doesnt want the government to interfere with his medicare.
All of a sudden to this small majority who supposedly have left the AARP is a sham organization. If the AARP was against the reform Im sure those same people wouldnt care.
Whats ironic is that you are concerned about them and insurace companies making money..but you have no problem with the pharma companies who dont want the reform for their own selfish reasons.
HAHAHHAA Mary in Toronto just said Millions will DIE without health care reform.... HAHHAHAHHAHAHHAHAHHAHAH Save the dramatics.. you watch too much CNN.. OOPs!
Surprise, surprise. You all need to wake up and see this for what it is – the footings for a bailout of the two largest ponzi schemes ever created: Medicare and Social Security. Please google "Ponzi Scheme" and then google the structure of Medicare and Social Security. You will find out they are exactly the same, and as such, their outcome will always be the same. Get the footings in now for National Healthcare, so within 20 years most, if not all, are on it. You can now eliminate Medicare and lower Social Security benefits under the guise of "No longer having the largest expense for Seniors, medical care". And the end result will be the same as well, except orders of magnitude larger. The people who still have a long working career as well as the people yet born will wear the burden of this house of cards tumbling down. Good Luck!
AARP or private insurance company with Wall Street Lobbyed Republicans.. which are more evil?.... I will take my chances with AARP.
Yes health care is not entitlement, and should be earned and purchased. But none of us live alone at a farm in Kansas. Chances are, if your gardener is sick or your less fortunate neighbors are sick, you will also get sick.... It is a Public Disease Control Issue, which requires Gov't action. If it is up to republicans and private insurance company, people will die left and right...:(
Great. More stories about grumpy, greedy old people. I'm old!! GIMME, GIMME, GIMME!!! Truth is, this country is facing some dire times and the deficit we have now reflects this. Oh and for all you who want to blame the Obama administration, remember that much of this was set in motion under Bush. With all that we're facing now (Afghan war, Iraq, soon-to-be increasing oil prices, aging baby-boomers) we all have to make sacrifices. Old people are so selfish. They need to realize that everyone has to give a little...
150K out of 40m is less than 1/2 of 1% – and this "fringe" group deserves an entire biased-sounding story on CNN? How about some major stories on WHY health insurance companies are spending millions of our premium dollars to keep things unchanged? Or how much money members of Congress have received from this industry to fight real reform. Or how about several major exposes on how and why health care covers everyone in every other major industrialized country in the world except the U.S. at less cost and with much better health outcomes for the population (hint: health insurance is NOT for profit in those countries, although it is still private and not government-run in many cases – another fear-mongering bit of misinformation from the right). Only disinformation or lack of information could explain why there is even a debate in the U.S. about the need for reform. It's shameful for the wealthiest country in the world to put profits of private companies above the legitimate needs of its entire population. Capitalism works for many areas of business, but NOT for EVERY area – time to scale back greed a bit and remember that societies are about values as well.
For all of you who feel that those WITH should share with the WITHOUTs...Do you own your own home? Do you share it? Do you take your hard earned money and go down to the shelters and hand it out? Until you do, I suggest that you are only trying to inflame anger against those of us who have truly WORKED for what we have. If we hand it all back out...who will help them next time? You won't have our pockets to empty again.
AARP may not realize it but their endorsement of the Healthcare Bill will cost them in the long run. Like many others I will not renew my membership. I did not realize that a small discount at hotels and car rentals was being offered by what seems to be an insurance lobby. I found out first hand that they lie in their ads about life insurance, so they are probably lying about how deep they are in the healthcare game too.
The insurance and health industry is much larger than most people think and AARP while doing some good would naturally support increasing profits. They are a profit company after all. Having been a Republican, Christian Conservative and white, I still voted for the man who will serve us best. With as many things going wrong and or broken when he took office and a World of people either not liking us or hating us enough to kill us, he needs support from Americans. Regulation is an ugly thing but necessary, just as important as speed limits, though some would argue. The dems have not nationalized our health or insurance, but they are beginning change that will threaten the profits that the health and insurance industry want to keep. Speed kills, unattended sickness kills and profit without good health care also kills.....Do those that whine so much really want even more suffering and death? Will the AARP really abandon thier members? Probably not, but at least they stand warned.
I no longer belong to AARP. While I have no use for the Republicans and consider myself an independent nothing AARP offers (sells) has any value to me. Their travel "discounts" are a joke, car rental is expensive, and the constant barrage of insurance offerings from Hartford is sick. Then there is the annual blowout in some major city. Whatever happen to doing a job without all the distractions?
My fellow seniors, you need to open your eyes here. Let's cut down the emotion, and be a little more rational. Dont forget that seniors strongly opposed Medicare – "I'll pay tons of taxes and never see beneifts". And it was opposed by Drs and the AMA – "We'll drown in paperwork and never see patiernts".
To all who think the government is just out to steal your money, and "interfer" in your health, I dont see any of you giving back your Medicare. Why dont you just back out of it ?? Let's stop the hypocrisy.
Do you really want to reduce your medical expenses ? Really ?? If so, then stop demanding an antibiotic or another test every time you see the Dr. Give up your cigarettes (that'll test who really wants to get healthy and save costs). Lose some weight, and get your padded behinds out of your chair and exercise.
This(my) new generation of seniors is the most unhealthy, the most over weight, the most inactive of all. This is the generation creating massive in raises in health costs. And until you address your lifestyle, quit complaiing about costs, taxes, and others who "need to earn what they get".
I'm also one of those over than 150,000 who quit this corrupt and self-serving organization. AARP has become a shill for the radical/liberal obama administration .
I have long been suspect of AARP. They are a marketing agency. If you don't believe me, let me tell you they started sending junk mail to me when I turned 40. After many phone calls and written requests, I FINALLY got them stopped, but then moved and it's starting all over again. I will not EVER EVER join AARP.
My husband and I also quit AARP over this same issue – glad to see people are speaking up, getting involved and not sitting back!
I bought a subscription into AARP for one year, and it was the worst experience I have ever had, so never again. It was like buying into solicitation hell. Everyone that had a product, insurance, magazine, gadget, or promotion, made me their target. I am sure AARP would end up with some percent of any sale to me from any of these predators. I have better things to do with my life than to end up as easy money for AARP.
How many of you believe that our US government is corrupt,.. even in the slightest bit? Do you really think that the politicians have YOUR best interests at heart? Same for AARP. Same for insurance companies. Same for everything!!! Why do you keep expecting beauraucrats to save you? Why do you keep looking at my wallet as your great equalizer and savior! My family is poor, we have gone out and WORKED for the little things we do have. We are proud of what we have earned because it was EARNED! Go out and do for yourself,... THAT is what capitalism is all about!
It's unfortunate that it all comes down to money. In one of the below comments, someone indicated "GOP fear-mongering and lies." I would recommend that all READ what the Senate is going to do to all of us and our economy. It's in writing and if there are lies, it's in the bill. Please note that they have "excluded" themselves and other groups from participating. I personally have a problem with being ordered to buy anything, especially since I do not have the funds. Our civil rights are being violated and I encourage everyone to band together for the largest class action suit the government has ever encountered. In addition, I would not sit there quietly and let these lawmakers get away with fraud.
Altho I am still a member presently, I do not like the direction AARP is going. They should NOT be in the insurance business. As far as healthcare reform is concerned, what is being pushed is NOT reform. You folks who believe it is are living in la-la land. The majority of people who can not afford healthcare now, won't be able to when forced. Therefore, the rest of us will be paying for them. Also, costs will continue to climb because there is no reason for them not to. And hey, has anyone read the article on the secret little add-on tucked into the healthcare bill? Something about long term care insurance – which everyone will be included in unless you know about it to opt out. They say it will cost another 160-240 a month in premiums. This is not reform. It is greed lifted to a higher socialistic level.
I just joined AARP because of their (our!) support for healthcare reform. I was also inpressed by their ads suppporting reform during the last presidential campaign.
I am a member of AARP – unfortunately I'm paid up for three more years – but still might quit as I think AARP is a scam. I have never – and will never – purchase their insurances. I've heard too many negative stories about the insurance coverage. Actually, there is very little advantage tin being a member – travel is not any cheaper than going thru online travel agencies – rental cars the same. However, the sell out on the health care isssue is what has turned me against them. I hope they lose so many members that they cease to exist. The greed in this country is going to be the end of us all.
AMEN – and about time. Around 15 years ago my mother was terrified by the mailing she would get from AARP stating that she was about to lose her Social Security unless she supported a specific initiative. She was 85 years old and I still resent how much they scared her. Personally I am weary of them hawking their insurance plans. I like the articles and statistics and now that I'm 66 I like attention paid to my age group. But not enough to put up with their agressive marketing.
Well, it's about time! I have been trying to make people understand the true purpose of AARP for years! Finally seniors are starting to realize that AARP could give a rip about them. It is a socialist, if not communist, organization operating under the guise of a non-profit, while generating millions of dollars from the sale of products and lists of members names to other companies. Did you notice how much your junk mail increased after you became a member?
Sorry didn't get to finish my comment lol...
HEALTHCARE IS EXPENSIVE, thats the problem. Making it more expensive by subsidizing it won't solve anything. In fact it will make the problem worse. The solution lies within the problem... WHY? Why is it so expensive? Thats simple.... two words: MALPRACTICE LAWSUITS. The only way gov't can make healthcare cheaper is to eliminate the malpractice process. No one should get $100 million cause of anything frankly. Nothing, no one, is worth the outragous sums paid out in malipractice awards. And worse, 99 times out of a 100, the winner of the award was simply a victim of FATE. Not every patient can be saved, not every surgery is successful or even goes as planned. The idea you have the right to sue someone who is trying to save your life is Ludicrious.
The thieving masses who have lawyer'ed their way into cash awards they didn't deserve cause the person trying to help them didn't help them enough to Their satisfaction have ruined this system. They're the villians here.
If I were a doctor, I'd quit. Let you all sue each other for all that bad home remedy advice you'd be given each other since there are no doctors left willing to get sued trying to help you.
Solution: Pass a law limitting a persons ability to sue for malpractice and limit awards to actual damages or future incurred costs to $100k.
Problem solved.
When AARP named Harry Belfonte person of the Year some time ago that say's it all.
People should have learned about AARP when they named Harry Belonfontie as a person of the year several years ago. AARP is day news for all seniors -especially since the support the Health Care program.
AARP should be called "BadNews"
leroy
Only an idiot could make a story about 1/3 of one percent of memebrs being unhappy about something.
That means that 99.67 percent are OK with it. But focus on the third of a percent, because they make the most noise.
If you are one third of a percent on an issue you are WRONG; simple as that.
I'm not involved with the health care issues and AARP simply because it's too much for me to understand. I stand behind the idea though, that the AARP has become more of an insurance sales outlet, without any benefits whatsoever passed on to the AARP Member. Having purchased auto insurance through their recommended agent, I was very disappointed to find out that the service was poor and the rates were substantially higher than the marketplace. After a small incident ($5000) it took over a month to get my car repaired due to the run around I got from the insurance company. Then the following year, they raised my premium by $500. I obviously changed providers who gave me additional coverage for $900 less than the AARP sponsored provider. At the time of the service difficulty, I sent a letter to AARP expressing my frustration, which of course went unanswered. I am still a member, although I don't really know why. I tend to think that there are others like me.
I agree and I canceled my membership.
You know, I wrote a book over a year ago, specifically for Senior Citizens (my parents are AARP members) called "Don't Spend a Dime" (Apress) that showed readers how they could save thousands by using open source and cloud-based computer software... I sent AARP a copy, sent the editor in chief a letter, had a few senior citizen reviewers I know contact AARP about the book... not a response. Nothing.
My publisher and I were so sure this would be something that seniors would love and that AARP would be interested. But I never even got a polite "Thanks for the book" reply... I know nothing about how AARP works, but this left a bad taste in my mouth about the organization.
The complainers and "blamers" are just that...complainers. Disagreement for the sake of disagreement...God love 'em...but, they are a pain in the neck.
I quit the AARP. They only want profit. Obama's healthcare bill is not for the good of Americans. I don't like politics, but how are the every day Americans suppose to live. Obama wants control and has sold the American people out. Our taxes are going up and healthcare premiums are going up. Healthcare will go down for seniors. The prescriptions will go up and some prescriptions we will not be able to get anymore. Obama has made deals with drug companies and insurance companies.
Count me in too. I am outraged by the fact this purported seniors organization, has thrown its constituency under the bus with the backing of the heinous, wreckless and dangerous health care plan. AARP has not only shown contempt to its members for the sake of politics and insurance sales, but when I called to ask them why, I might just as well spoken to a parrott. Check out the AMERICAN SENIORS ASSOCIATION in Alpharetta, Georgia. I am now a member and will continue being so even after my AARP membership expires.
I turned fifty around the time the AARP endorsed President Bush's Medicare initiative that I thought was a bad deal for seniors. I also thought that the AARP's endorsement helped to reelect Bush. So when I got my inevitable solicitation from them to join, I declined and told them why. I still refuse to join despite whatever benefits they offer. I believe the present Healthcare bill is bad and I am not surprised that they again endorsed it.
You can cound me in the group that feels the ARRP has lost touch with reality.
Terry Brooks
Evansville, IN
I will not be renewing my AARP membership for similar reasons. I feel as if they are talking out of the side of their mouths. At one time, they did represent the senior population however I no longer feel that is the case. The senior citizens of this country no longer have a person or group that really cares about the concerns of the older Americans. We are all living longer and everyone needs to know that they will be in our shoes one day!!! People do not stay in their 20's and 30's forever.
Must be Iam missing sompin here,, I get my meds thur aarp and it costs me nothing..only the yearly membership fee and all my meds are paid and no monthly payment...
My wife and I both mailed back our membership cards. The only thing I ever got from them was insurance ads and a magazine loaded with insurance ads.
Thus guy is exactly right. AARP is nothing but a big money, big insurance group that has had their fingers in the pot for a long time. They stand to really clean up under this Health Care snafu. Who's money will they be taking? OURS! To top it off Obama, Pelosi and Reid announced they will do the final negotiating through the backdoor to avoid the American people watching or listening to what they are up to.
150K out of 40 million isn't even 1 percent; it's a rounding error. This represents the lunatic fringe in this country. the birthers, the seceders, the nut jobs who call themselves teabggers. Old (and mostly fat) dumb white folks who cannot believe we have a president of color.
The angry rednecks and crackers can be found anywher you look for peopl living in trailers and collecting their ss checks while bithcing about the government. Let just one of these clowns give up Medicare; just one
I dropped my AARP membership last year. They are like the fox looking after the chickens. Anyone that stays with AARP is a sucker!
Before AARP endorsed healthcare reform, the GOP couldn't say enough good about AARP and the seniors they represent. I'm a member and would have left if AARP hadn't endorsed reform......
I have left as well .. sent the AARP a note, but no reply .. surprise .. surprise. I thought they were to represent their base .. did they ever ask their base of support ?? Seems like their only interest is themselves.
All of you people who are talking "smack" about the AARP will not be complaining later on this year when perscription costs go down significantly because our new health care bill now covers the donut hole. You people complaining in this article are sniveling Republicans who are attacking the AARP for supporting President Obama. All of you baby Boomers who are now entering retirement within the Republican category could care less about the strain your increased population would bring to the current inadequate funding for medicare coverage to American citizens. You're all a sorry bunch of conservative folks who want to retire and selfishly bankrupt the current system with the increasing enrollees within you're demographic. The AARP defends cheaper more affordable prices for retired persons....and any Bozo who assumes the status quo right now holds Insurance companies accountable is speaking for Conservatives and not mainstream America for retired persons.............
150,000? Is that all? I would have hoped that many more of these malcontents who stand in the way of progress would leave and stop wasting everyones time with their whining and complaining. Maybe they can use their AARP membership money to join a Tea Party.