Michelle Obama addressed an audience of women and senior advocates Friday, Nov. 13 about the challenges women and seniors face because they often make less money and pay higher premiums than their male counterparts.
“My husband believes that Medicare is a sacred part of America’s social safety net and it’s a safety net that he will protect — he will protect — with health insurance reform,” said Mrs. Obama, a former hospital executive. “America has a responsibility to give all seniors the golden years they deserve.” (from the Associated Press)
The First Lady pointed out inequalities women can face under their insurance coverage:
“Because women make less than 80 cents for every dollar their male coworkers make, it’s more difficult for them to pay their premiums — especially when studies show that they’re paying far more than men for the same coverage,” she said. (from ABC News)
Three seniors took the podium, telling their stories about their struggles with insurance and Medicare especially. Medicare has been a huge issue within the debate of health care reform, especially when the current health plans being considered could call for up to $500 billion cuts to the program, reports Politico.
“America has a responsibility to give all seniors the golden years they deserve,” she said. “That’s exactly what health insurance reform is going to help us do in this country….Let’s get to work.”
