Gov. Walker: Saving SeniorCare

The state has partnered with the Wisconsin Broadcasters Association to produce and distribute brief radio address once a week.  Audio files and a written transcript of this radio address can be accessed on http://www.wi-broadcasters.org and http://walker.wi.gov/section.asp?linkid=1761&locid=177.  To download an mp3 file you can visit http://walker.wi.gov/section.asp?linkid=1761&locid=177, right click the radio address link and click “save link as.”

Here is the transcript from this Thursday’s radio address, which is titled Saving SeniorCare:

Hi this is Scott Walker.

My parents retired years ago and now live at our home in Wauwatosa. My father was a small town minister and my mother ran a thrift shop for many years.

These days, my mom loves to babysit my two nieces, bake chocolate chip cookies and take pictures of family and friends. My dad likes to read mystery novels and watch just about any football, baseball or basketball game.

Like so many other senior citizens in our state, they are retired, but they still find plenty to do with family and friends. And they continue to have a positive impact on their community.

Often, when I make decisions for the state, I think of my parents – Llew and Pat Walker.

It is important to look out for our seniors here in Wisconsin.

And even though our state faced an enormous budget deficit this year, we actually increased funding for Medicaid by $1.2 billion. These are funds that support programs for our seniors and for needy families and children.

In addition, I just directed the Wisconsin Department of Health Services to apply for a waiver from the federal government so we can continue with our SeniorCare prescription drug program in Wisconsin.

As you may know, SeniorCare is for Wisconsin residents who are 65 or older and who meet the eligibility criteria. With a $30 annual enrollment fee, copayments ranging from $5 to $15, and no gaps in coverage, SeniorCare provides more comprehensive and less expensive coverage than Medicare Part D.  SeniorCare produces a great value for seniors and taxpayers alike.    

I’m optimistic that the federal government will grant this waiver and allow Wisconsin to continue SeniorCare.

This is good news for seniors like my parents and it means that they can worry about the more important things in life…like how to spoil the grandkids.