June 28, 2021

Schumer Backs Plan to Expand Medicare, Add Dental, Vision, and Hearing Coverage

Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer (NY) said he backs a proposal by Sen. Bernie Sanders (VT) to include dental, vision, and hearing coverage in Medicare on Sunday. Schumer made the argument for expanding Medicare coverage during a press conference, citing the “more serious medical problems” that a gap in coverage causes. Schumer mentioned a 2020 Harvard Medical School study showing that one in every five Americans over 65 has untreated tooth decay as a reason why the additional benefits are needed.

A new budget reconciliation bill being developed by Budget Committee chair Sanders is expected to include Medicare expansion. It would only require 50 votes in the Senate, and approval by the House, to be sent to the White House.

“We need to expand Medicare to include dental, vision and hearing treatments and services and also bring down drug prices,” said Robert Roach, Jr., President of the Alliance. “Quality, affordable health care is essential for a secure retirement.”