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Will the Real AARP Stand Up?

The Sarasota Herald Tribune, 9/27/09

Abstract:

Many seniors wonder when the real AARP will finally stand up on health reform! What was originally founded as a senior advocacy group has morphed into a marketing company to seniors. AARP has repeatedly refused to take sides on this issue and lately seems to be pushing the latest administration proposal.

Maybe this is because of concern about its franchise and diminishing membership. The Wall Street Journal recently reported that AARP is experiencing a net loss of 20,000 members a month, and on Thursday it reported that Congressional Budget Office director Douglas Elmendorf said cuts to Medicare Advantage “could lead many plans to limit the benefits they offer, raise their premiums, or withdraw from the program.”

In all fairness, there is no one specific health care reform proposal now on the table. However, members should expect AARP to set out a specific set of requirements that represents their wishes! The current lack of a position is not what one would expect from any advocacy group.

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