During his Senate Finance Committee confirmation hearing, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. faced criticism for misstating key aspects of how Medicare and Medicaid operate, two crucial public health programs that collectively cover over 150 million Americans.
One of the key points of contention arose during an exchange with Republican Sen. Bill Cassidy of Louisiana, a doctor who leads the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions. Kennedy's statements on potential reforms to Medicare and Medicaid raised concerns about his understanding of these programs.
Regarding Medicare, Kennedy incorrectly stated that the program operates solely on a 'fee for service' basis, funded by employer taxes. In reality, over half of Medicare enrollees are in Medicare Advantage plans managed by private insurers, with multiple funding sources including enrollee premiums and government support.
On the topic of Medicaid, Kennedy claimed that it is fully funded by the federal government and does not follow a fee-for-service model. However, Medicaid is a joint federal-state program, with most enrollees in managed care plans and some still under fee-for-service payment structures.
Additionally, Kennedy's assertion that premiums and deductibles in Medicaid are universally high was challenged. Only a few states, such as Iowa and Georgia with a federal waiver, charge premiums to certain enrollees. Most states impose nominal copays for specific services like prescription drugs and hospital care.
It is important to note that the federal government sets limits on the premiums and cost-sharing that states can impose on Medicaid enrollees, ensuring access to essential healthcare services.
As Kennedy seeks confirmation as the Health and Human Services Secretary, his understanding of these critical healthcare programs will be under scrutiny, especially given the significant impact they have on millions of Americans.
