Seniors Speak Out CMS Statement

January 23, 2025 - The nonpartisan senior healthcare advocacy group issued the following statement in response to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) announcement for an additional 15 drugs selected for Medicare Drug Price Negotiations under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA):

“As the new administration and the 119th Congress consider next steps for Medicare – Seniors Speak Out stands ready to work with our newly elected leaders to protect and strengthen the program.  

“For more than two decades, our organization has highlighted community voices, commissioned research studies about Medicare satisfaction and educated stakeholders on programmatic developments.  

“Medicare Part D, which has long provided affordable coverage and high satisfaction rates for older Americans, proves that market-based approaches work. However, the IRA threatens this success, with an overwhelming 82 percent of seniors concerned by its unintended consequences, including limiting their access to newer prescription drugs and reducing choice with treatment options.

“Seniors Speak Out urges policymakers to consider the unintended consequences of this approach and work towards solutions that prioritize seniors’ health and preserve medical innovation.”