Health policy
Midterm results renew debate over Medicare for All
Democrats’ control creates room for a renewed push, but it does not guarantee support for Medicare for All, KFF Health News reported.
The Democrats’ midterm wins have renewed debate over Medicare for All, with Sen. Bernie Sanders urging the party to act when it takes control of the Senate in January, The Hill reported. Sanders said the proposal is supported by 66 percent of Americans. He called for an immediate first step that would lower Medicare eligibility from 65 to 55, add dental, vision and hearing coverage, and guarantee health coverage for children from birth through age 19. He also called for reversing Medicaid cuts and restoring enhanced Affordable Care Act subsidies.
KFF Health News reported that victories by candidates who campaigned on some form of Medicare for All do not guarantee that the policy will advance. A recent KFF poll found support faltered when respondents heard arguments that the plan could lead to higher taxes or delays in treatment. Health policy experts cited by KFF Health News said Democrats could instead pursue narrower measures, including restoring subsidies or curbing insurers’ use of prior authorization. The Hill reported that major changes are unlikely while President Trump is in office.
