John Hope Bryant: “As we discuss this addition of prescription drugs to senior citizens, we cannot talk about it in isolation. I think we…”

“As we discuss this addition of prescription drugs to senior citizens, we cannot talk about it in isolation. I think we have to place it in the context of Medicare as we talk about this. One of the first things that comes to my mind and I hear about from my constituents in Tennessee is what I think is the doctors' maxim, First, do no harm. As we examine these prescription drug proposals, we should make sure that whatever plan we adopt does no harm. That is, it should not jeopardize any of the current coverage of Medicare in what they receive, beneficiaries receive, nor should it jeopardize the retirement security of any American. I think, secondly, as we talk about this issue we have to remember the dignity and rights of Medicare beneficiaries as we protect them. Just because an American reaches the age of 65 does not mean that they should be treated like second-class citizens, and any effort that we make to add this prescription drug benefit should ensure that seniors gain the right to all the benefits that they are entitled to before they reach 65, as well as after 65.”