As a kid, I remember watching my dad receive his dialysis treatments at home. Kidney disease runs in my family, and tragically it has taken not only my dad’s life, but many others in my family before their time. I received my own kidney disease diagnosis almost 20 years ago. Medical costs are rising and continue to rise for kidney patients, and it is a challenge to overcome the obstacles of what insurance does not cover.
However, Medicare doesn’t always cover the cost of care for kidney disease patients under the age of 65, and many people can’t afford to pay out-of-pocket prices when that happens. Luckily, the Jack Reynolds Memorial Medigap Expansion Act would fix that. This bipartisan bill would expand Medigap coverage to kidney patients under 65 to make sure everyone gets the care they need. That’s why I’m hoping our elected officials sign on to this bill.
A kidney disease diagnosis is already stressful enough, and no patient should have to choose between paying for groceries or the medications they need to stay alive. Our elected leaders in Washington need to fight for the people they represent, which is why they must pass the Jack Reynolds Memorial Medigap Expansion Act.
Gene Blankenship, Gore, Oklahoma
