All of the serious Democratic candidates for president rightfully point out the need for access to meaningful universal health care coverage for all Americans.
The candidates also commendably reject pre-existing health conditions as barriers to universal coverage.
Apparently missing from the proposals, however, is a call for strengthening existing traditional Medicare coverage. For example, seniors often need hearing aids which cost approximately $6,000, but are not covered by Medicare.
The same is true of dental care, including implants, which can range from $5,000 to $25,000. Also not covered are long-term insurance policies which cost approximately $2,500 per person annually.
Democrats should consider advocating adding coverage for these items to existing Medicare. Not only would this be fair, but it would also be politically astute as many seniors tend to be pro-Republican despite the history of Republican opposition to Medicare.
Robert R. Salman
Marlboro
