Seniors’ Long-Term Care

Re: “Seniors, You’re on Your Own” (June 3), which reported on one of the most vexing issues to confront the nation: How will the growing number of retirees pay for their long-term care in an environment where Medicare and Medicaid are increasingly underfunded by the federal government?

The American Health Care Assn. has reached two initial conclusions. First, while Congress continues to endorse and support the growth of the long-term care insurance market, it must begin doing so in a way that provides assistance to the poor. This assistance must not just take the form of accessing insurance, but must also help in maintaining that insurance. We believe changes in the tax code can accomplish this important objective. Second, we believe a public/private program should be created to help all Americans prepare for their long-term care needs. This should entail combining changes in the tax code with a restructuring of public long-term care financing and, significantly, coordinating care at the federal level.

DR. CHARLES H. ROADMAN II

President and CEO

American Health Care Assn.

Washington, D.C.