October 2022

Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Senator Michael Bennet (D-CO), Rep. Dina Titus (D-NV-01), Rep. Susie Lee (D-NV-03), U.S. Rep. Melanie Stansbury (D-NM-01), U.S. Rep. Tom O’Halleran (D-NV-01), U.S. Rep. Ruben Gallego (D-AZ-07), U.S. Rep. Melanie Stansbury (D-NM-01), State Sen. Brittany Pettersen (D-CO-22), State Rep. Monica Duran (D-CO-24), Headlined “Lower Costs, Better Care” Bus Tour Events

On the third week of Protect Our Care’s 12,000-mile “Lower Costs, Better Care” bus tour, “Care Force One” made stops in four states to celebrate the Inflation Reduction Act’s measures to drive down health care costs and to let Americans know how and when they can access these new benefits. During each stop, national and local elected officials, health care advocates and storytellers discussed how the bill could save families thousands of dollars a year on health care. The groundbreaking legislation works to reduce racial inequities in health care, improve care for seniors, strengthen families, and save lives. Next week, the tour continues in Virginia, North Carolina, Georgia, and Florida. 

Watch All Bus Tour Stops Here

RENO, NV:

Protect Our Care was joined by Oscar Delgado, CEO of Community Health Alliance Katie Charlson, Nevada Health Link, and Laura Packard, cancer survivor and health care advocate, for a press conference at Community Health Alliance’s Sparks Health Center. 

Coverage

• KOLO (ABC): Protect Our Care Nationwide Bus Tour in Reno, Nevada
• KOLO (ABC): Healthcare Officials and Advocates Join Protect Our Care’s Lower Premiums, Better Health Care Bus Tour 
• KTVN-TV (Channel 2): Health Care Officials, Advocates Headline “Lower Costs, Better Care” Bus Tour Stop in Reno

Watch the event here.

LAS VEGAS, NV:

Protect Our Care was joined by Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Rep. Dina Titus (D-NV-01), Rep. Susie Lee (D-NV-03), Michelle Maese, President of SEIU Local 1107, Yarleny Roa-Dugan, Labor and Delivery Nurse, Steven Horner, Health Care Advocate, Erin Wicker Campbell, Health Care Advocate, and Laura Packard, cancer survivor and health care advocate, for a press conference at SEIU Local 110. 

Coverage

• KTNV-LV (ABC): Protect Our Care Bus Tour to Stop in Las Vegas Today
• KLAS-LV (CBS): Sen. Rosen and Rep. Lee Promote Health Care Legislation at POC Bus Event in Vegas
• KLAS-LV (CBS): Sen. Rosen and Rep. Lee Talk Improving Access to Health Care at POC Bus Event in Las Vegas
• KNPR (Radio): Protect Our Care Bus Tour Stops in Las Vegas to Celebrate Lowering of Health Care Costs 
• KNPR (Radio): Protect Our Care Nationwide Bus Tour in Las Vegas, Nevada
• KNPR (Vegas): Tour to celebrate federal action on health care costs stops in Las Vegas

Watch the event here.

FLAGSTAFF, AZ:

Protect Our Care was joined by Rep. Tom O’Halleran (D-NV-01), Rep. Elect Mae Peshlakai (D-NV-06), and Laura Packard, cancer survivor and health care advocate, for a press conference at North Country Community Health Center.

Watch the event here.

PHOENIX, AZ:

Protect Our Care was joined by U.S. Rep. Ruben Gallego (D-AZ-07), Jevin Hodge, Carmen Heredia CEO for Valle del Sol Health Center, Dr. Karupanna, and Laura Packard, cancer survivor and health care advocate, for a press conference at Central Phoenix Valle del Sol Community Health Center.

Watch the event here.

TUCSON, AZ:

Protect Our Care was joined by Former Arizona State Senator Kirsten Engel, Melissa Garcia, Chief External Affairs Officer for Planned Parenthood Advocates of Arizona, Carol Brown, healthcare advocate, and Laura Packard, cancer survivor and health care advocate, for a press conference at Planned Parenthood Southern Arizona Regional Health Center.

Watch the event here.

ALBUQUERQUE, NM:

Protect Our Care was joined by U.S. Rep. Melanie Stansbury (D-NM-01), Barbara Webber, Executive Director of Health Action New Mexico, Laura Packard, cancer survivor and health care advocate for a press conference at Albuquerque’s Civic Plaza.

Watch the event here.

DENVER, CO:

Protect Our Care was joined by Senator Michael Bennet (D-CO), State Senator Julie Gonzales (D-CO), Mannat Singh, Executive Director of the Colorado Consumer Health Initiative, and Laura Packard, cancer survivor and health care advocate, for a press conference at The Colorado State Capitol Building.

Watch the event here.

LAKEWOOD, CO:

Protect Our Care was joined by State Sen. Brittany Pettersen (D-CO-22), State Rep. Monica Duran (D-CO-24), Kyle Piccola, Healthier Colorado, Gail deVore, patient advocate, and Laura Packard, cancer survivor and health care advocate, for a press conference at Carmody Recreation Center.

Watch the event here.

FOR PLANNING PURPOSES
DATE: Wednesday, October 19th, 2022
Contact: Erin McCann Ciani
303-746-2365

***MEDIA ADVISORY: Friday, October 21 at 10:30 AM MDT***

Care Force One Rolls into Denver as Part of Nationwide “Lower Cost, Better Care” Tour

DENVER, CO — On Friday, U.S. Senator Michael Bennet (D-CO) will join State Senator Julie Gonzales, The Colorado Consumer Health Initiative, and health care advocates as part of Protect Our Care’s nationwide bus tour to celebrate the Inflation Reduction Act’s measures to drive down health care costs for millions of working families and seniors. 

At today’s event, speakers will discuss how the bill lowers premiums for 13 million Americans, gives Medicare the power to negotiate for lower drug prices, lowers prescription drug prices for seniors, and delivers relief to people with disabilities, people of color, and rural Americans. 

WHO:
Senator Michael Bennet (D-CO)
State Senator Julie Gonzales
Mannat Singh, Executive Director of the Colorado Consumer Health Initiative
National and Colorado Health Care Storytellers

WHAT: Protect Our Care Colorado “Lower Cost, Better Care” Bus Tour Press Conference

WHERE: Care Force One, The Colorado State Capitol Building, 200 East Colfax, Denver, CO

**Event will take place on the east side of the building on Grant Street**

WHEN: Friday, October 21st, 2022 at 10:30 AM

Senator Bennet has been fighting to lower the costs and increase access to health care for Coloradans throughout his time in the Senate.  Some of his most recent accomplishments include:

• Requiring Medicare to negotiate drugs prices;
• Extending health insurance premium support for three years for over 150,000 Coloradans;
• Capping prescription drug and insulin costs for seniors;
• Ending surprise medical billing for patients;
• Expanding health care eligibility to over 3.5 million toxic-exposed veterans;
• Securing investments in our public health infrastructure, including $3 million to grow Colorado’s public health workforce;
• Ensuring patient access to innovating opioid addiction treatments and securing nearly $21 million to fight the opioid crisis;
• Improving coordination and access to care for children with medically complex conditions enrolled in Medicaid;
• Expanding Medicaid coverage for mothers to 12 months postpartum;
• Securing investments to expand access to mental and behavioral health; and
• Creating the 9-8-8 National Suicide Hotline.

The bus, called Care Force One, will travel 12,000 miles across the country, with more than 40 events in 21 states. Protect Our Care’s national bus tour is promoting the new benefits available to the American people thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act. For more information on the Protect Our Care “Lower Cost, Better Care” Bus Tour visit  https://www.protectourcare.org/bus-tour/ 

FOR PLANNING PURPOSES
Contact: Jessie Hunt | 505.918.5826 | [email protected]

***MEDIA ADVISORY FOR THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20 AT 10 AM MT***

 Care Force One Rolls into Albuquerque on 10/20 as Part of Nationwide “Lower Cost, Better Care” Tour

Albuquerque, NM — On Thursday, Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury will join health care advocates and local residents as part of Protect Our Care’s nationwide bus tour to celebrate the Inflation Reduction Act’s measures to drive down health care costs for millions of working families and seniors. At Thursday’s event, speakers will discuss how the bill lowers premiums for 13 million Americans, gives Medicare the power to negotiate for lower drug prices, lowers prescription drug prices for seniors, delivers relief to people with disabilities, people of color, and rural Americans, and let New Mexicans know how and when they can access these new benefits. The event will take place in front of Care Force One at Civic Plaza at 10 am.

WHO: 
Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury
Barbara Webber, Executive Director of Health Action New Mexico
Laura Packard, cancer survivor and health care advocate

WHAT: Protect Our Care New Mexico “Lower Cost, Better Care” Bus Tour Press Conference

WHERE: Care Force One, Civic Plaza, 1 Civic Plaza, Albuquerque, NM 87102

WHEN: Thursday, October 20 at 10 am MT

The bus, called Care Force One, will travel 12,000 miles across the country, with more than 40 events in 21 states. Protect Our Care’s national bus tour is promoting the new benefits available to the American people thanks to the work of President Biden, Congresswoman Stansbury, and dozens of Democratic lawmakers who championed the Inflation Reduction Act. During each event, Protect Our Care will also call out Republicans like Congresswoman Yvette Herrell for rejecting measures to improve care, lower costs, and address racial inequities in health care for the American people.

For more information on the Protect Our Care “Lower Cost, Better Care” Bus Tour visit  https://www.protectourcare.org/bus-tour/ 

Valle del Sol Community Health Center Joins Protect Our Care on Nationwide Bus Tour to Celebrate The Inflation Reduction Act’s Historic Measures to Drive Down Health Care Costs for Arizonans

WATCH THE EVENT HERE

PHOENIX, AZ — Yesterday, Protect Our Care’s Care Force One arrived in Phoenix to highlight how the Inflation Reduction Act’s measures will lower premiums and prescription drug costs for millions of Americans. The groundbreaking legislation works to reduce racial inequities in health care, improve care for seniors, strengthen families, and save lives. During the event, Congressman Ruben Gallego explained how the bill lowers premiums for 13 million Americans, gives Medicare the power to negotiate for lower drug prices, lowers prescription drug prices for seniors, and delivers relief to people with disabilities, people of color, and rural Americans. 

“The Inflation Reduction Act is a historic win for Arizona,” said Rep. Gallego. “Passing this bill means cheaper prescription drugs and money saved on health insurance. I’m proud to have kept our promise to pass bold solutions to improve Arizonans’ lives.”

“The Affordable Care Act saved my life,” said Laura Packard. “Five years ago I walked into the doctor’s office with a nagging cough and walked out with a stage four cancer diagnosis — but I was lucky. I had good insurance through the ACA that paid for the chemotherapy and radiation that I needed. Now, the Inflation Reduction Act has made health insurance more affordable for millions of Americans like me. Through this landmark legislation, President Biden and Democrats in Congress capped premiums at 8.5 percent of our income and lowered prescription drug costs, paving the way for more affordable health care for years to come.” 

This afternoon, the “Lower Costs, Better Care” tour will continue in Tucson, where Protect Our Care will be joined by Planned Parenthood Arizona. For more information, please visit protectourcare.org/bus-tour/.

You can watch the event here.

Protect Our Care’s Care Force One will make stops in: 
Bangor, Maine on Monday, October 3, 2022
Dover/Manchester, New Hampshire on Monday, October 3, 2022
Concord, New Hampshire on Tuesday, October 4, 2022
Hartford, Connecticut on Tuesday, October 4, 2022
Allentown, Pennsylvania on Wednesday, October 5, 2022
Scranton, Pennsylvania on Wednesday, October 5, 2022
Burlington County, New Jersey on Thursday, October 6, 2022
New Brunswick, New Jersey on Thursday, October 6, 2022
Harrisburg/Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on Friday, October 7, 2022
Morgantown, West Virginia on Friday, October 7, 2022
Cincinnati, Ohio on Monday, October 10, 2022
Cleveland, Ohio on Monday, October 10, 2022
Flint, Michigan on Tuesday, October 11, 2022
Lansing, Michigan on Tuesday, October 11, 2022
Milwaukee, Wisconsin on Wednesday, October 12, 2022
Green Bay, Wisconsin on Wednesday, October 12, 2022
La Crosse/Eau Claire, Wisconsin on Thursday, October 13, 2022
St. Paul, Minnesota on Thursday, October 13, 2022
Des Moines, Iowa on Friday, October 14, 2022
Kansas City, Missouri on Friday, October 14, 2022
Reno, Nevada on Monday, October 17, 2022
Las Vegas, Nevada on Tuesday, October 18, 2022
Flagstaff, Arizona on Tuesday, October 18, 2022
Phoenix, Arizona on Wednesday, October 19, 2022
Tucson, Arizona on Wednesday, October 19, 2022
Albuquerque, New Mexico on Thursday, October 20, 2022
Pueblo / Colorado Springs, Colorado on Thursday, October 20, 2022
Denver, Colorado on Friday, October 21, 2022
Richmond, Virginia on Monday, October 24, 2022
Greensboro, North Carolina on Monday, October 24, 2022
Charlotte, North Carolina on Tuesday, October 25, 2022
Augusta, Georgia on Tuesday, October 25, 2022
Atlanta, Georgia on Wednesday, October 26, 2022
Savannah, Georgia on Wednesday, October 26, 2022
Orlando, Florida on Thursday, October 27, 2022
Tampa, Florida on Thursday, October 27, 2022
Miami, Florida on Friday, October 28, 2022

###

FOR PLANNING PURPOSES
Contact: Morgan Finkelstein, [email protected], 602-361-4394

***MEDIA ADVISORY FOR WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19 AT 10:30AM***

Care Force One Rolls into Phoenix on Wednesday, October 19 as Part of Nationwide “Lower Cost, Better Care” Tour

PHOENIX, AZ — Today, Congressman Ruben Gallego will join health care advocates and local residents as part of Protect Our Care’s nationwide bus tour to celebrate the Inflation Reduction Act’s measures to drive down health care costs for millions of working families and seniors. During the event, speakers will discuss how the bill lowers premiums for 13 million Americans, gives Medicare the power to negotiate for lower drug prices, lowers prescription drug prices for seniors, delivers relief to people with disabilities, people of color, and rural Americans and let Arizonans know how and when they can access these new benefits. The event will take place in front of Care Force One at Valle del Sol Community Health Center’s central Phoenix location on Wednesday, October 19 at 10:30AM.

WHO: 
Congressman Ruben Gallego (D-AZ-07)
Jevin Hodge, Chair of the Booker T. Washington Child Development Center
Carmen Heredia
Dr. Karupanna
Laura Packard

WHAT: Protect Our Care Arizona “Lower Cost, Better Care” Bus Tour Press Conference

WHERE: Care Force One, Valle del Sol Community Health Center Central Phoenix Location, 3807 N. 7th St., Phoenix, AZ 85014

WHEN: Wednesday, October 19 at 10:30AM MST

The bus, called Care Force One, will travel 12,000 miles across the country, with more than 40 events in 21 states. Protect Our Care’s national bus tour is promoting the new benefits available to the American people thanks to the work of President Biden, Congressman Ruben Gallego, and dozens of Democratic lawmakers who championed the Inflation Reduction Act. During each event, Protect Our Care will also call out Republicans like Congressman David Schweikert for rejecting measures to improve care, lower costs, and address racial inequities in health care for the American people.

For more information on the Protect Our Care “Lower Cost, Better Care” Bus Tour visit  https://www.protectourcare.org/bus-tour/ 

Senator Rosen, Reps. Titus and Lee Join Protect Our Care on Nationwide Bus Tour to Celebrate The Inflation Reduction Act’s Historic Measures to Drive Down Health Care Costs for Nevadans

WATCH THE EVENT HERE

LAS VEGAS, NV — Yesterday, Protect Our Care’s Care Force One arrived in Las Vegas to highlight how the Inflation Reduction Act’s measures will lower premiums and prescription drug costs for millions of Americans. The groundbreaking legislation works to reduce racial inequities in health care, improve care for seniors, strengthen families, and save lives. During the event, Senator Rosen, Congresswoman Titus, and Congresswoman Lee explained how the bill gives Medicare the power to negotiate for lower drug prices, lowers prescription drug prices for seniors, and lowers health insurance premiums for 12 million Americans. 

“For far too long, hardworking seniors have been forced to make the impossible choice between paying for their prescription medications or putting food on the table,” said Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV). “That is why I was proud to help pass the Inflation Reduction Act to lower the costs of prescription drugs for Nevada seniors and keep health care premiums low for families across Nevada.”

“The historic Inflation Reduction Act will lower costs and improve health care for thousands of Nevadans on Medicare,” said Congresswoman Dina Titus (NV-01). “People should never have to choose between buying needed medicines and putting food on the table. The same medicines are sold for much less in other countries; and insulin can be produced for only $10 a dose while my constituents are charged up to ten times more. As we vote to lower prices, the Republicans continue to side with Big Pharma and protect their mega-profits.”

“Democrats kept our promise and delivered, once again, to help millions of Americans afford health care and prescription drugs with the Inflation Reduction Act,” said Congresswoman Susie Lee (NV-03). “For decades, politicians have been talking about lowering prescription drug prices. This Congress finally delivered, but not one Republican stood with us in passing this cost-saving and life-saving legislation. In fact, because of the Inflation Reduction Act, an average middle-class family of four in Nevada will save over $4,000 a year on health care premiums. I’m so proud to have voted for this legislation that is going to save Nevadans and make health care more accessible and affordable.”

“I’m a labor and delivery nurse at one of the hospitals here in Las Vegas and I have seen how not having health insurance negatively impacts the patients I see,” said Yarleny Roa-Dugan, a registered nurse. “Without health insurance, many of the women I see have serious health concerns that could have been addressed during regular doctor visits and prenatal care. By extending the tax credits that make health insurance affordable for many Nevadans, the Inflation Reduction Act makes sure patients like mine are able to receive the care they need to have healthier pregnancies.” 

“The Inflation Reduction Act is a game changer for my parents and me,” said Erin Wicker Campbell, a health care advocate. “Because tax credits are available to make health insurance purchased on Nevada’s exchange more affordable, I can seriously consider turning my small business side hustle into my full-time gig. It also caps the amount of money my parents spend on their medications each year. Our family is able to breathe easier because of the Inflation Reduction Act and I want to say thank you to Nevada’s senators and southern Nevada representatives for bringing down health care costs for families like mine.”  

“I’m an Army veteran, retired educator, and former President of my union. I had to retire due to my disability, but recently I’ve come back to the profession to help substitute teach in order to keep up with rising drug costs for my wife and I,” said Steve Horner, health care advocate. “One inhaler for my COPD costs almost $200 per month. And due to my wife’s asthma, we share an inhaler to avoid paying too much out-of-pocket, thanks to insurance not covering the specific medicine we need. However, thanks to Nevada’s congressional members including Senator Jacky Rosen, Congresswoman Dina Titus, and Congresswoman Susie Lee, we are finally seeing that help is on the way, especially for Nevada’s seniors, with the Inflation Reduction Act. It is a huge and historic step in the right direction, and we owe our thanks to our delegation members who voted for the IRA for delivering. We must do everything possible to lower drug costs now and hold Big Pharma accountable for gouging patients on their life-saving medication.”

“The Affordable Care Act saved my life,” said Laura Packard. “Five years ago I walked into the doctor’s office with a nagging cough and walked out with a stage four cancer diagnosis — but I was lucky. I had good insurance through the ACA that paid for the chemotherapy and radiation that I needed. Now, the Inflation Reduction Act has made health insurance more affordable for millions of Americans like me. Through this landmark legislation, President Biden and Democrats in Congress capped premiums at 8.5 percent of our income and lowered prescription drug costs, paving the way for more affordable health care for years to come.” 

Today, the “Lower Costs, Better Care” tour will continue in Arizona. For more information, please visit protectourcare.org/bus-tour/.

You can watch the event in Las Vegas here.

Protect Our Care’s Care Force One will make stops in: 
Bangor, Maine on Monday, October 3, 2022
Dover/Manchester, New Hampshire on Monday, October 3, 2022
Concord, New Hampshire on Tuesday, October 4, 2022
Hartford, Connecticut on Tuesday, October 4, 2022
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on Wednesday, October 5, 2022
Scranton, Pennsylvania on Wednesday, October 5, 2022
Burlington County, New Jersey on Thursday, October 6, 2022
New Brunswick, New Jersey on Thursday, October 6, 2022
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on Friday, October 7, 2022
Morgantown, West Virginia on Friday, October 7, 2022
Columbus, Ohio on Monday, October 10, 2022
Cleveland, Ohio on Monday, October 10, 2022
Flint, Michigan on Tuesday, October 11, 2022
Lansing, Michigan on Tuesday, October 11, 2022
Milwaukee, Wisconsin on Wednesday, October 12, 2022
Green Bay, Wisconsin on Wednesday, October 12, 2022
Eau Claire, Wisconsin on Thursday, October 13, 2022
St. Paul, Minnesota on Thursday, October 13, 2022
Des Moines, Iowa on Friday, October 14, 2022
Kansas City, Missouri on Friday, October 14, 2022
Reno, Nevada on Monday, October 17, 2022
Las Vegas, Nevada on Tuesday, October 18, 2022
Flagstaff, Arizona on Tuesday, October 18, 2022
Phoenix, Arizona on Wednesday, October 19, 2022
Tucson, Arizona on Wednesday, October 19, 2022
Albuquerque, New Mexico on Thursday, October 20, 2022
Denver, Colorado on Friday, October 21, 2022
Lakewood, Colorado on Friday, October 21, 2022
Richmond, Virginia on Monday, October 24, 2022
Raleigh, North Carolina on Monday, October 24, 2022
Charlotte, North Carolina on Tuesday, October 25, 2022
Augusta, Georgia on Tuesday, October 25, 2022
Atlanta, Georgia on Wednesday, October 26, 2022
Savannah, Georgia on Wednesday, October 26, 2022
Orlando, Florida on Thursday, October 27, 2022
Tampa, Florida on Thursday, October 27, 2022
Ft. Lauderdale, Florida on Friday, October 28, 2022

***MEDIA ADVISORY FOR TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2022***

Care Force One Rolls into Nevada and Arizona on Tuesday to Celebrate the Inflation Reduction Act’s Health Care Measures

Watch All Bus Tour Stops Live Here.

On day 12 of Protect Our Care’s “Lower Costs, Better Care” bus tour, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and U.S. Representatives Dina Titus (D-NV-01), Susie Lee (D-NV-03) and Tom O’Halleran (AZ-01) will join health care advocates and Protect Our Care for events in Las Vegas, NV, and Flagstaff, AZ, celebrating the Inflation Reduction Act’s measures to drive down health care costs. During the events, speakers will discuss how the bill lowers premiums for 13 million Americans, reins in prescription drug prices, and takes important steps to improve health equity.

The “Lower Costs, Better Care” five-week tour will thank lawmakers who fought tirelessly to pass this historic bill and call out Republicans in Congress for rejecting measures to lower costs for millions of working families and seniors and addressing deep inequities in our health care system. Lawmakers have long worked to lower health costs and rein in high drug prices — but President Biden and Democrats in Congress actually got the job done— with help on the way in just a matter of months. Read more about the Inflation Reduction Act’s health care provisions here. 

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA:

WHO:
U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
U.S. Representative Dina Titus (D-NV-01) 
U.S. Representative Susie Lee (D-NV-03)
Michelle Maese– President of SEIU 1107
Yarleny Roa-Dugan, Registered Labor and Delivery Nurse  
Steven Horner, veteran and health care advocate 
Erin Wicker Campbell, small business owner and health care advocate
Laura Packard, cancer survivor and health care advocate

WHERE: SEIU: 2250 S Rancho Dr STE 165, Las Vegas, NV 89102

WHEN: Tuesday, October 18, 2022 at 10:30 AM PT

FLAGSTAFF, ARIZONA: 

WHO:
U.S. Representative Tom O’Halleran (AZ-01) 
Laura Packard, cancer survivor and health care advocate

WHERE: North County Community Health Center, 2920 N Fourth St, Flagstaff, AZ 86004

WHEN: Tuesday, October 18, 2022 at 4:00 PM MST

Thanks to President Biden and Democrats, Seniors Will Save Big on Their Medicare Coverage

Watch Highlights From President Biden’s Speech Here.

Over the weekend, President Biden hit the West Coast to celebrate new savings as seniors begin to shop for Medicare plans during open enrollment. The events come as the administration begins rolling out a new policy that allows patients to purchase hearing aids over the counter. Starting next year, seniors will get more for less — with many saving thousands of dollars a year on health care.

As Medicare beneficiaries review plans, they will see lower premiums and brand new benefits thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act’s measures to drive down drug costs. This new legislation ensures that no Medicare beneficiary will pay more than $2,000 a year for prescription drugs, and insulin costs will be capped at $35 per month. Additionally, in the years ahead, Medicare beneficiaries will see lower drug prices across the board thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act’s provisions to give Medicare the power to negotiate and stop Big Pharma’s price hikes on medications.

Last week, President Biden also announced a new executive order directing the Department of Health and Human Services to explore new actions it can take to lower prescription drug costs for middle-class families. 

COVERAGE

President Biden Celebrates Lower Drug Prices for Seniors

The New York Times: Biden Goes Out West on a Three State Tour Promoting Lowering Drug Prices. “President Biden on Friday tried to reassure Americans stung by high inflation that his administration was working to keep health care costs down, promising a community college audience in Southern California that he was committed to doing even more. Mr. Biden argued that Republicans would drive prices higher if they gained power. He noted their opposition to his efforts to allow Medicare to negotiate drug prices, which he said would force prices down for medication for millions of seniors. And he said Democrats had pushed through price caps on critical drugs like insulin. ‘If Republicans in Congress have their way, it’s going to mean the power we just gave Medicare to negotiate lower prescription drug prices and other costs over time goes away — gone,’ Mr. Biden said, standing in front of signs that said ‘Lowering Costs for American Families.’ ‘Two-thousand-dollar cap on prescription drugs goes away — gone. The $35 month cap on insulin for Medicare is gone.’” [The New York Times, 10/14/22]

The Oregonian: In Portland, President Biden Highlights Provisions in the Inflation Reduction Act Fighting Big Pharma. “President Joe Biden touted Democrats as American families’ champion against Big Pharma on Saturday at the East Portland Community Center. Biden spoke about how the Inflation Reduction Act will lower drug costs for seniors on the first day of open enrollment for Medicare. The bill Biden signed in August seeks to lower energy and healthcare costs for families who have been hit by the most rapid consumer price increases in four decades. The president sang the praises of Oregon’s senior U.S. senator, Ron Wyden, who chairs the powerful Senate Finance Committee and has been an ongoing champion of curtailing pharmaceutical companies. The president highlighted some key provisions of the Inflation Reduction Act that will begin next year, including capping insulin copays at $35 and requiring drug companies to pay rebates to Medicare if they raise prices faster than inflation.” [The Oregonian, 10/14/22]

Los Angeles Times: President Biden and Representative Porter Rail Against Big Pharma. “President Biden and Rep. Katie Porter sought to focus voters’ attention on Democrats’ work to lower the cost of prescription drugs during an event in Orange County on Friday afternoon. Porter, the first Democrat ever to represent her district, has been an effective fundraiser as she seeks a third term, having boosted her national profile with several performances in committee hearings that went viral, including some in which she blasts pharmaceutical executives for price gouging. Biden praised Porter for her toughness and credited her with helping pass the Inflation Reduction Act. Biden has been eager to emphasize all that he and Democrats have accomplished legislatively since he took office less than two years ago: a massive pandemic relief package; bipartisan laws to overhaul infrastructure, boost American microchip manufacturing and improve healthcare for veterans exposed to toxic chemicals on the battlefield; and the Inflation Reduction Act.” [Los Angeles Times, 10/14/22]

Medicare Recipients Will Pay Less Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act

Fox 28 Spokane: Open Enrollment For Medicare Underway, New Adjustments To Plans And Website. “The Biden-Harris Administration has made expanding access to health insurance and lowering health care costs for America’s families a top priority. Just last month the Biden-Harris Administration announced that people with Medicare will see lower average premiums for Medicare Part B, Medicare Advantage, and Medicare Part D prescription drug plans in 2023. “This year, more than ever, it is vital that people with Medicare review and compare their options to find the coverage that best meets their needs,” said HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra.” [Fox 28 Spokane, 10/15/22]

Bloomberg Law: Medicare Open Enrollment For 2023 Begins Oct. 15, HHS Says. The Biden-Harris Administration said Friday that Medicare open enrollment for 2023 begins Oct. 15 and will remain open through Dec. 7… Medicare beneficiaries can review their coverage, including drug and health plan options, on Medicare.gov. The Biden Administration has made expanding access to health insurance and lowering health care costs for America’s families a top priority, HHS said. President Biden signed the Inflation Reduction Act into law in August, which provided Medicare enrollees with lower costs for insulin and vaccines beginning in 2023, HHS said.” [Bloomberg Law, 10/14/22]

The Philadelphia Inquirer: Medicare Open Enrollment Started On Oct. 15. Here’s What’s New For 2023. “Lower premiums, insulin price caps, free shingles vaccines: There are some noteworthy changes to Medicare for 2023, and the annual open enrollment period is a good time to check them out. Even if you’re content with your coverage, Medicare’s annual open enrollment — Oct. 15 through Dec. 7 — is an opportunity to take stock of your health needs and make sure you’re enrolled in a plan that is the best fit. Whether you have original Medicare with a drug plan or Medicare Advantage, plan details change every year. And your health needs may be different now than they were a year ago.” [The Philadelphia Inquirer, 10/14/22]

Patients Can Now Purchase Hearing Aids Over the Counter

CNN: A ‘Game-Changer’ For Millions Of Americans: You Can Now Buy Hearing Aids Over The Counter. “This means that there could be a lot more people out there that have untreated hearing loss that could finally have access to these sorts of hearing aids. People have been talking about trying to cover dental and vision and hearing for a long time. Dental and vision are still out there, but hearing loss is something that people have focused on because it is so untreated.” [CNN, 10/17/22]

The Hill: White House Marks Rollout Of Over-The-Counter Hearing Aids At Retailers Nationwide. “The White House on Monday marked the rollout of hearing aids sold at retailers like Walgreens, CVS and Walmart following steps from the Biden administration to allow them to be sold over the counter. On Monday, Walgreens started selling hearing aids in stores and online for $799 a pair, CVS started selling them online at different price points and Walmart started selling them at more than 1,000 Vision Centers in the retailer’s stores and 474 Sam’s Club locations, ranging from $199 to $999 per pair.” [The Hill, 10/17/22]

Reuters: Lower-Cost US Hearing Aids Go On Sale Today. “Major U.S. retailers will begin selling lower-cost hearing aids without a prescription or medical exam under final Biden administration rules that take effect Monday. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in August approved the sale of over-the-counter hearing aids, allowing millions of Americans to buy hearing aids without seeing an audiologist and potentially saving individuals thousands of dollars. The rules apply to hearing aids for people with mild to moderate hearing loss. The aids will be available directly from stores or online without medical exams, a prescription or audiologist fitting adjustment.” [Reuters, 10/17/22]

President Biden Signs Drug Pricing Executive Order to Lower Costs for Families

Politico: Biden Pushes HHS To Do More On Drug Pricing. “President Joe Biden plans to sign an executive order asking HHS to explore new ways to lower drug costs, according to the White House. HHS will use its Innovation Center, created under the Affordable Care Act, to work toward lower drug prices. The White House highlighted the center’s authority to try new ways of paying for Medicare services. The agency will have 90 days to report its plans to use the center for lowering drug prices.” [Politico, 10/14/22]

Fierce Healthcare: New Biden Order Wants CMMI To Test Payment Models That Tackle High Drug Prices. “President Biden is calling for new payment and delivery models that will lower drug prices in a new executive order. The order released Friday calls on the Department of Health and Human Services to craft a report outlining the payment models that will test how to improve access to innovative drugs and lower costs for those in Medicare and Medicaid. While the order doesn’t grant any new authorities to HHS, it underscores the administration’s next steps in lowering drug prices.” [Fierce Healthcare, 10/14/22]

Endpoints News: President Biden Offers Another Push On Drug Price Savings Via Executive Order. “Building off his recently-signed legislation allowing Medicare to start negotiating prices in some limited circumstances for the most expensive pharmaceuticals, President Joe Biden today will sign an Executive Order directing HHS to consider what more it can do to drive down prescription drug costs. Under the order, HHS will have three months to submit a formal report outlining how to use its “Innovation Center,” created by Obamacare, and other existing authorities to lower drug costs and promote access to innovative drugs for Medicare beneficiaries.” [Endpoints News, 10/14/22]

U.S. Senators Michael Bennet (D-CO) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV), U.S. Representatives Ruben Gallego (D-AZ-07), Tom O’Halleran (AZ-01), Susie Lee (D-NV-03), and Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) Will Headline “Lower Costs, Better Care” Events in Four States

 

Watch All Bus Tour Stops Live Here.

Washington, DC — On the third week of Protect Our Care’s 12,000-mile “Lower Costs, Better Care” bus tour, “Care Force One” will make stops in four states to celebrate the Inflation Reduction Act’s measures to drive down health care costs and to let Americans know how and when they can access these new benefits. During each stop, national and local elected officials, health care advocates and storytellers will educate Americans about how the bill could save them thousands of dollars a year on health care. 

The “Lower Costs, Better Care” five-week tour will thank lawmakers who fought tirelessly to pass this historic bill and call out Republican lawmakers for rejecting measures to lower costs for millions of working families and seniors and addressing deep inequities in our health care system. Lawmakers have long worked to lower health costs and rein in high drug prices — but President Biden and Democrats in Congress actually got the job done— with help on the way in just a matter of months. Read more about the Inflation Reduction Act’s health care provisions here. 

MONDAY

RENO, NEVADA: 
WHO:
Oscar Delgado, Community Health Alliance CEO
Katie Charlson, Nevada Health Link
Laura Packard, cancer survivor and health care advocate
WHERE: Community Health Alliance: Plaza 800, 2244 Oddie Blvd, Sparks, NV 89431

WHEN: Monday, October 17, 2022 at 10:00 AM PT

TUESDAY

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA:
WHO:
U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
U.S. Representative Susie Lee (D-NV-03)
Michelle Maese– President of SEIU 1107
Yarleny Roa-Dugan, Registered Labor and Delivery Nurse  
Steven Horner, veteran and health care advocate 
Erin Wicker Campbell, small business owner and health care advocate
Laura Packard, cancer survivor and health care advocate

WHERE: SEIU: 2250 S Rancho Dr STE 165, Las Vegas, NV 89102

WHEN: Tuesday, October 18, 2022 at 10:30 AM PT

FLAGSTAFF, ARIZONA: 
WHO:
U.S. Representative Tom O’Halleran (AZ-01) 
Laura Packard, cancer survivor and health care advocate

WHERE: North County Community Health Center, 2920 N Fourth St, Flagstaff, AZ 86004

WHEN: Tuesday, October 18, 2022 at 4:00 PM MST

WEDNESDAY

PHOENIX, ARIZONA: 
WHO:
U.S. Representative Ruben Gallego (D-AZ-07)
Carmen Heredia, Executive Director at Valle del Sol
Dr. Suganya Karuppana, Chief Medical Officer at Valle del Sol
Jevin Hodge, President, Booker T. Washington Child Development Center
Laura Packard, cancer survivor and health care advocate

WHERE: Valle del Sol CHC: 3807 N 7th St, Central Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ, 85014

WHEN: Wednesday, October 19, 2022 at 10:30 AM MST

TUCSON, ARIZONA: 
WHO:
Former state senator Kirsten Engel (10th district)
Carol Brown, storyteller 
Laura Packard, cancer survivor and health care advocate 
Melissa Garcia, Chief of External Affairs, Tucson Planned Parenthood

WHERE: Tucson Planned Parenthood, 2255 N Wyatt Dr, Tucson, AZ 85712

WHEN: Wednesday, October 19, 2022 at 2:30 PM MST

THURSDAY

ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO: 
WHO:
U.S. Representative Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) 
Laura Packard, cancer survivor and health care advocate 

WHERE: Civic Plaza

WHEN: Thursday, October 20, 2022 at 10 AM MDT

FRIDAY

DENVER, COLORADO: 
WHO:
U.S. Senator Michael Bennet (D-CO) 
Laura Packard, cancer survivor and health care advocate

WHERE: State Capitol

WHEN: Friday, October 21, 2022 at 10:30 AM MDT

Protect Our Care’s Care Force One will make stops in: 

Bangor, Maine on Monday, October 3, 2022
Portsmouth, New Hampshire on Monday, October 3, 2022
Concord, New Hampshire on Tuesday, October 4, 2022
Hartford, Connecticut on Tuesday, October 4, 2022
Scranton, Pennsylvania on Wednesday, October 5, 2022
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on Wednesday, October 5, 2022
New Brunswick, New Jersey on Thursday, October 6, 2022
Marlton, New Jersey on Thursday, October 6, 2022
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on Friday, October 7, 2022
Morgantown, West Virginia on Friday, October 7, 2022
Columbus, Ohio on Monday, October 10, 2022
Cleveland, Ohio on Monday, October 10, 2022
Flint, Michigan on Tuesday, October 11, 2022
Lansing, Michigan on Tuesday, October 11, 2022
Milwaukee, Wisconsin on Wednesday, October 12, 2022
Green Bay, Wisconsin on Wednesday, October 12, 2022
Eau Claire, Wisconsin on Thursday, October 13, 2022
St. Paul, Minnesota on Thursday, October 13, 2022
Des Moines, Iowa on Friday, October 14, 2022
Kansas City, Kansas on Friday, October 14, 2022
Reno, Nevada on Monday, October 17, 2022
Las Vegas, Nevada on Tuesday, October 18, 2022
Flagstaff, Arizona on Tuesday, October 18, 2022
Phoenix, Arizona on Wednesday, October 19, 2022
Tucson, Arizona on Wednesday, October 19, 2022
Albuquerque, New Mexico on Thursday, October 20, 2022
Boulder/Fort Collins, Colorado on Thursday, October 20, 2022
Denver, Colorado on Friday, October 21, 2022
Richmond, Virginia on Monday, October 24, 2022
Raleigh, North Carolina on Monday, October 24, 2022
Charlotte, North Carolina on Tuesday, October 25, 2022
Augusta, Georgia on Tuesday, October 25, 2022
Atlanta, Georgia on Wednesday, October 26, 2022
Savannah, Georgia on Wednesday, October 26, 2022
Orlando, Florida on Thursday, October 27, 2022
Tampa, Florida on Thursday, October 27, 2022
Miami, Florida on Friday, October 28, 2022
TBA: October 31-November 4, 2022

For more information on the Protect Our Care “Lower Costs, Better Care” Bus Tour visit  https://www.protectourcare.org/bus-tour/ 

Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Sen. Tina Smith (D-MN), Governor Tony Evers (D-WI), Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist (D-MI), Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes (D-WI), WI Attorney General Josh Kaul, Rep. Shontel Brown (D-OH-11), Rep. Angie Craig (D-MN-02), Rep. Dean Phillips (D-MN-03), and Rep. Sharice Davids (D-KS-03) Headlined “Lower Costs, Better Care” Bus Tour Events

 

On the second week of Protect Our Care’s 12,000-mile “Lower Costs, Better Care” bus tour, “Care Force One” made stops in six states to celebrate the Inflation Reduction Act’s measures to drive down health care costs and to let Americans know how and when they can access these new benefits. During each stop, national and local elected officials, health care advocates and storytellers discussed  how the bill could save families thousands of dollars a year on health care. The groundbreaking legislation works to reduce racial inequities in health care, improve care for seniors, strengthen families, and save lives. Next week, the tour continues in Nevada, Arizona, New Mexico, and Colorado. 

Watch All Bus Tour Stops Here

COLUMBUS, OH:

Protect Our Care was joined by Franklin County Commissioner Erica Crawley, Desiree Tims, President & CEO of Innovation Ohio, Norm Wernet, the Ohio President of the Alliance for Retired Americans, and Laura Packard, cancer survivor and health care advocate, for a press conference outside of Columbus City Hall.

Watch the event here.

CLEVELAND, OH:

Protect Our Care was joined by Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Rep. Shontel Brown (D-OH-11), Steve Lieber, a Cleveland senior, former organized labor leader and retiree, and Laura Packard, cancer survivor and health care advocate, for a press conference at Willard Park.

Watch the event here.

FLINT, MI:

Protect Our Care was joined by Michigan Rep. John Cherry, Linda Hamacher, Genesee County senior citizen and President Emeritus of the Genesee Health Plan, Dr. Lawrence Reynolds, interim President/CEO of the Greater Flint Health Coalition, and Laura Packard, health care advocate, stage 4 cancer survivor, for a press conference at Flint Farmers’ Market

Coverage:

• WJRT (ABC): Protect Our Care Bus Tour Stops in Flint

Watch the event here.

LANSING, MI:

Protect Our Care was joined by Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist, Dr. Farhan Bhatti, CEO and Medical Director of Care Free Medical, Eric Schneidewind, Delta Township resident and senior on Medicare, and Laura Packard, health care advocate, stage 4 cancer survivor, for a press conference at Michigan State Capitol.

Coverage:

• WILX (NBC): Protect Our Care Bus Tour Stops in Lansing
• WLAJ (ABC): Speakers Tout IRA Benefits at Protect Our Care Bus Tour
• WLNS (CBS): Speakers Tout IRA Benefits at Protect Our Care Bus Tour

Watch the event here.

MILWAUKEE, WI:

Protect Our Care was joined by U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin, Wisconsin Lieutenant Governor Mandela Barnes, Attorney General Josh Kaul, Milwaukee area resident David Marstellar, a senior on Medicare, and Laura Packard, health care advocate, stage 4 cancer survivor, for a press conference.

Coverage:

• WisPolitics: Protect our Care: Lt. Gov. Barnes, A.G. Kaul, Sen. Baldwin headline “Lower Costs, Better Care” bus tour stop in Milwaukee

Watch the event here.

GREEN BAY, WI:

Protect Our Care was joined by Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers, Dr. Kristin Lyerly, MD/MPH, Vik V., NE Wisconsin Resident, and Laura Packard, health care advocate, stage 4 cancer survivor, for a press conference.

Coverage:

• UpNorthNews: HEALTHCARE: Statewide Democrats Show Support For ‘Lower Costs, Better Care’
• WisPolitics: Governor Tony Evers headlines “Lower Costs, Better Care” bus tour stop in Green Bay

Watch the event here.

EAU CLAIRE, WI: 

Protect Our Care was joined by State Senator Brad Pfaff, State Representative Sara Rodriguez,  local educator Julia B., and Laura Packard, health care advocate, stage 4 cancer survivor for a press conference.

Coverage:

• WEAU (NBC): Health Care Bus Tour Hits Eau Claire 

Watch the event here.

ST. PAUL, MN:

Protect Our Care was joined by Senator Tina Smith, U.S. Rep. Angie Craig, U.S. Rep. Dean Phillips, MNsure CEO Nate Clark, Ken McInnis, a senior who will save on prescription drug costs for a press conference at Minnesota State Capitol.

Coverage:

• KSTP (ABC): Inflation Reduction Act and Health Care
• WCCO Talk Radio: Nationwide Bus Tour Swings Through Twin Cities
• WCCO Talk Radio: Local Health Care Leaders and Politicians Celebrate Inflation Reduction Act

Watch the event here.

DES MOINES, IA:

Protect Our Care was joined by Iowa Rep. Bruce Hunter, Laura Packard, Health Care Voter and Patient Advocate, Sue Dinsdale, Executive Director, Iowa Citizen Action Network, and Matt Sinovic, Executive Director, Progress Iowa, for a press conference at Iowa State Capitol.

Watch the event here.

KANSAS CITY, KS:

Protect Our Care was joined by U.S. Representative Sharice Davis (D-KS-03), Sharon Trapp Hendrix, KS Alliance for Retired Americans’ Donna Lehane, and Little Lobbyists’ Becki Uccello for a press conference at Rosedale Park.

Watch the event here.