medicare

House GOP budget plan calls for major cuts to benefits, paving way for tax overhaul bill

By Andrew Taylor, Associated Press

House Republicans on Tuesday unveiled a 10-year budget blueprint that would dramatically increase military spending while putting the GOP on record favoring Medicare cuts opposed by President Donald Trump.

The Trump administration says a new plan will cut drug prices. It’s not that simple

By Erin Mershon, STAT

When the Trump administration unveiled a new Medicare proposal this week to cut payments to hospitals as part of a drug reimbursement program, Health and Human Services Secretary Tom Price called the plan a “significant step toward fulfilling President Trump’s…

Social Security trust fund will be depleted in 17 years, according to trustees report

By Philip Moeller

The annual trustee reports on Social Security and Medicare, released today, have become a doomsday clock for senior benefits.

Seeking a ‘better than bingo’ solution for loneliness in older age

By Philip Moeller

While few would question the need for making long-term financial retirement plans, there is relatively little formal emphasis on making long-term plans for combating loneliness and staying involved in multiple social activities.

Medicare’s lack of dental, hearing and vision coverage can put seniors in a bind

By Philip Moeller

"This is what we need to survive, not something we want, like a toaster oven," explains a reader.

I like using holistic doctors. Do I really need Medicare Part B?

By Philip Moeller

You can defer this moment of truth or perhaps avoid it altogether by taking fantastic care of yourself. But forgoing health insurance is fine until you get sick.

My husband and I are both on disability. Would getting divorced help us financially?

By Philip Moeller

A reader and her husband fall short of qualifying for assistance programs because they are both on disability. Should they split up to get more help?…

Help! I lost my job and just turned 65. What do I do about health insurance?

By Philip Moeller

In the haze that can accompany such surprises, don't just simply take COBRA and assume you're done with health insurance concerns, Philip Moeller advises.

What’s the best place to retire? Keep these factors in mind before settling down

By Philip Moeller

Location will become a more significant variable in later-life decisions. Here are several factors to consider when deciding where to settle down for your retirement years.

What do you need to know about successful aging and retirement?

By Philip Moeller

Medicare and Social Security are of critical importance in enabling older Americans to age in good physical and financial health. To support these broader goals, “Ask Phil” is expanding its mission to include your other questions about successful aging.