[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 43 (Thursday, March 18, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E501]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   INTRODUCTION OF LEGISLATION REGARDING THE MEDICARE+CHOICE PROGRAM

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. BARBARA CUBIN

                               of wyoming

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 18, 1999

  Mrs. CUBIN. Mr. Speaker, today I am introducing a Concurrent 
Resolution to ensure that Medicare beneficiaries will continue to have 
access to the types of medical care they need. Regrettably, the 
Medicare+Choice regulations do not ensure that Medicare beneficiaries 
participating in the Medicare+Choice Program receive coverage for 
chiropractic services like they do under traditional Medicare.
  Medicare beneficiaries have access to chiropractic services through 
Medicare Part B. When the Medicare+Choice Program was created, Congress 
stated its intention that all services covered under Medicare Parts A 
and B would be included in the program. It is unfortunate that the such 
services might not be available under the new program.
  The Medicare+Choice program allows Medicare beneficiaries to 
participate in a managed care system. For many people, such a system 
will better meet their needs. It was also the intention of Congress, 
while expanding health care choices, to find cost-effective means of 
providing care.
  I urge my colleagues in the House to join me in rectifying this 
problem by supporting this bill.

                          ____________________