During the confirmation hearings for Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the nominee to lead the Department of Health and Human Services, there were notable inaccuracies in his descriptions of the different parts of Medicare. When asked by Democratic Sen. Maggie Hassan to explain the components of Medicare, Kennedy provided incorrect information.
On the second day of his confirmation hearings before the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions, Kennedy mistakenly stated that Medicare Part A is primarily for primary care or physicians. Senator Hassan corrected him, clarifying that Part A actually covers inpatient hospital care.
Regarding Medicare Part B, Kennedy mentioned that it covers outpatient care and home health services. While Part B does cover some home health services for certain enrollees, it primarily focuses on outpatient care.
Furthermore, Kennedy described Medicare Part C as offering a comprehensive range of services, including Parts A, B, C, and D. In reality, Medicare Part C is commonly known as Medicare Advantage, where private insurers provide coverage for services under Parts A and B, along with Part D prescription drug coverage.
Senator Hassan expressed concerns about Kennedy's understanding of the Medicare program, stating, 'You want us to confirm you to be in charge of Medicare, but it appears that you don’t know the basics of this program.' Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester also echoed these concerns, highlighting the need for accurate knowledge of Medicare.
During his previous hearing before the Senate Finance Committee, Kennedy also made errors in describing both Medicare and Medicaid. Medicare currently serves approximately 68 million senior citizens and individuals with disabilities, emphasizing the importance of a clear understanding of the program's components.
