Action Alert: Funding That Helps Medicare Beneficiaries Access Cost-Savings Programs is at Risk!

For the past 16 years, the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act (MIPPA) has provided funding to state and local organizations to support outreach and enrollment efforts aimed at connecting individuals to programs that assist with Medicare costs. Congress has extended this funding 12 times with bipartisan support. Without another extension, MIPPA funding will expire on December 31, 2024.

MIPPA funding supports organizations such as the PA LINK to Aging and Disability Resources, Area Agencies on Aging, PA MEDI, and Benefit Enrollment Centers in their efforts to assist Medicare beneficiaries in navigating the complex benefits programs designed to help cover Medicare costs. These programs include the Medicare Savings Programs, which help people afford their monthly Medicare Part B premiums, and Extra Help, which lowers people's prescription drug costs. These programs help save older adults and individuals with disabilities thousands of dollars each year and significantly enhance their quality of life. However, many people may be unaware of these resources or may require assistance to apply for or stay enrolled in these programs.

Over the past two years, MIPPA funding has enabled community organizations to reach 9.3 million Medicare beneficiaries nationwide, providing them with vital information about potential benefits to reduce their Medicare costs. With more than 10,000 Americans becoming eligible for Medicare each day, MIPPA funding is crucial for ensuring that these organizations have the staffing and resources necessary to meet the increasing demand for services. For more information about MIPPA-supported programs at the national level, please visit the National Council on Aging’s MIPPA Resource Center.

Those who wish to express their opinions on the extension of MIPPA funding or share their experiences with Medicare costs and/or navigating the programs that help with these costs can reach out to their representatives in Congress.