The Center for Medicare Advocacy (the Center) urges support for S. 3101, the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act.  "This bill is good for beneficiaries all around.  It ensures access to medical care by preventing the Medicare fee cut for doctors set to become effective on July 1, it makes significant improvements in Medicare by reducing cost-sharing for mental health services, and it makes it easier for Medicare to pay for preventive services," said Judith Stein, Executive Director.

The Center asks the Senate to be cautious when looking at other bills that attempt to address the physician Medicare payment issue.  "The best-known alternative bill does not provide coverage and cost-sharing improvements.  Nor does it improve access to programs that help low-income Medicare beneficiaries pay for their Part B premium and their prescription drug coverage," Ms. Stein continues. "It would be a shame in these difficult financial times for the Senate to ignore the needs of the people for whom the Medicare program was established - older people and people with disabilities."

Judith Stein is available for comment.