HHS Official in the Office of Consumer Support Talks with Seniors About Reform

As part of the statewide week of action happening to celebrate and defend reform during the six-month anniversary of the law's passage, PHAN in Western PA hosted a great discussion on the many benefits for Pennsylvania seniors under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act at the Shenango Valley Senior Community Center in Hermitage, Mercer County.

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We were very lucky and excited to have a very special guest--Karen Pollitz, Deputy Director of the Office of Consumer Support which is a new office within the Office of Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. In addition to letting seniors know about important improvements to Medicare, like new free preventive care benefits, closing of the donut hole (and immediate help with prescription drug costs for those currently in the coverage gap), and new cost-saving measures cracking down on waste, fraud and abuse, Karen spoke about what her office is doing to help states craft and implement important new insurance regulations and consumer protections.

We had a great time and took a lot of great questions. Video of Karen's remarks will be posted in the next couple days, so be sure to check back! Also, if you'd like to schedule an event like this in your community, let us know! Contact Erin at 412-512-9225 or egill@pahealthaccess.org to schedule an event in your area.