Tucson, AZ – Congressman Raúl M. Grijalva will host a town hall regarding the health and welfare of Arizona’s senior citizens on Wednesday, July 1.

Americans spend more on health care every year—an estimated $2.6 trillion in 2009, or around $8,300 per person.

And those between the ages of 50-64 are amongst the highest rates of uninsured. For those in the same age range, they have higher rates of rejection from insurers, pay higher premiums and receive the least benefits. The transition into Medicare provides limited health access, for example a lack of opportunity to allow long-term care which has been proven to be higher quality and less cost.

“We face an enormous challenge as the baby boomer generation reaches their senior years,” said Grijalva. “We need legislation that guarantees healthcare coverage that is affordable, high-quality, accessible and which lowers costs for all consumers, regardless of age. In addition, we need to ensure that seniors have high quality medical care and other human services integrated in the setting most appropriate for maintaining their independence and quality of life.”

WHAT:

Congressman Grijalva Senior Health and Welfare Town Hall

WHEN:

Wednesday, July 1, 2009
10:30 am

WHERE:

St. Mary’s Hospital
6th floor, Heritage Room
1601 W Saint Mary’s Rd
Tucson, AZ 85714

Congressman Grijalva will be joined by Jim Murphy of Pima Council On Aging, Carolyn Trowbridge of Quality of Life and Care Alliance, Wendy Cevallos of the Attorney General’s office, Dr. Mindy Fain of UA College of Public Health Center for Aging, Robin Landers of the City of Tucson Senior Center Representative, and Deborah Totten from Carondolet Health Network.

There will be a Q &A session after the panel discussion.