Head Start, Medicare Advantage: Objections

Head Start works

The recent column by Bob Beckel and Cal Thomas, "Common Ground: Washington's Groundhog Day," is completely off base when it comes to Head Start.

Each and every day, Head Start programs are tackling the complex and unique needs of our nation's poorest children and building two-generational foundations that will place entire families on a path toward self-sufficiency. Head Start does more than introduce children to the ABCs and 123s. It equips families with parenting tools, ensures children have nutritious meals, and provides health and dental screenings.

Today's Head Start children graduate from high school at higher rates, are more likely to attend college and contribute to their communities. And that, my friends, is far from standing in the way of progress.

Sandra Gutierrez, director, Abriendo Puertas/Opening Doors; Los Angeles

Medicare Advantage cuts

The article "Reports, experts dispute Medicare Advantage ads" ignores the higher costs, reduced benefits and fewer choices millions of seniors have already experienced as a result of cuts to Medicare Advantage. It also fails to acknowledge the bipartisan agreement in Congress and among health care stakeholders that the new proposed cuts will harm beneficiaries in the program.

More than 270 members of Congress from both parties sent letters saying the new cuts "will jeopardize beneficiary access to the high quality care these plans provide," and that payment levels should be maintained to "allow MA beneficiaries to be protected from disruptive changes in 2015." In addition, a broad array of organizations have sent letters urging the agency to use its regulatory discretion to protect seniors from additional cuts to their health care coverage.

Karen Ignagni, president and CEO, America's Health Insurance Plans; Washington, D.C.