SAC MIN 1997-11-13 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Senor Affairs Commission Page 2 Minutes of Thursday, November 13, 1997 Chairperson Walsh arrived at 3:26pm and took over the gavel from Commissioner Lloyd. Chairperson Walsh asked about where services have been reduced and where the greatest gaps were in Medicare. Ms. Tracy explained that there are three major areas of gaps: 1 .) Lack of prescription drug coverage without MediCal or HMO participation; 2.) Service denials; where there is no progress in therapy and shorter hospital stays; 3.) Home health will not cover 24 hour care; it will be split to Part A (100% coverage) and Part B (80% coverage); medical plan of action will be required. Chairperson Walsh said he sees the cost going up and less service (e.g. patients paying more for less). Ms. Tracy reported on what will be new in 1998 in the Medicare Program: 1 .) No increase in Part B ($43.88/month) 2.) Phased in shift from home care from Plan A to Plan B after 100 days 3.) More prevention services will be covered 4.) Medicare will have a Part C (new in 1998) which will cover: -Managed care plans -Private fee for services -Medical Savings Accounts (1999) In response to questions from the Commissioners, Ms. Tracy indicated that there was a need for input on home health and prescription services. She stated she would get back to the Commission with information on which Committee's are dealing with these issues and key contact people in California. Ms. Tracy spoke about the need for changes as follows: 1 .) $238 billion annually in fraud and abuse. She has received a grant to provide Senior Counselors Against Medicare Swindlers (SCAMS). She said there is a need for volunteers to become counselors particularly in North San Mateo County. 2.) Commissioner Newell spoke regarding managed care. He was concerned over the sales pitches from HMO's to seniors and that many seniors do not understand the actual terms of their coverage. 3.) Dr. Willey spoke about the quality of services being an issue; e.g. using technicians vs. nurses, etc.; general downgrading of care. The HICAP presentation on November7, 1997 with all HMO's present was a worthwhile Senior Center activity. ITEM 2 — WORKPLAN UPDATES -Economic Development Luncheon Commissioner Harrison reported the luncheon will be held on Tuesday, November 18 at 2030 Restaurant and 30 persons have made reservations to attend. A press release was distributed and Chairperson Walsh has made contacts with local churches. The next potential luncheon speaker is Pam