TSCL continues to support re-importation of drugs more than general importation of drugs made in other countries. And, while we also support imported medicines made in other countries, we strongly insist that the drugs be certified to be sure they are pure and contain only the ingredients they are supposed to have. .If you have been around someone who has COVID-19, you do not need to stay away from others or get tested unless you have symptoms. .TSCL believes that while the proposal may be a sensible first step, it doesn't go far enough. Before individuals can enroll in Medicare Advantage or Part D plans, they must be enrolled in Medicare Part B and have a Medicare number. How illegal immigrants obtain that number, and whether they are properly enrolled in Medicare Part B, are two key questions. "To prevent ineligible people from receiving benefits, the responsibility lies with the 'gatekeeper' and that's the federal government," says TSCL's Executive Director, Shannon Benton. "The Social Security Administration and Medicare need to do more to prevent illegal immigrants from getting Medicare numbers to begin with," Benton says. "In addition, both Medicare and private health and drug plans need up-to-date and accurate verification systems in place to determine whether beneficiaries are legally present when they receive services," she adds. .To learn more about benefits, Notch Babies or a family member helping on their behalf can get personalized assistance to screen and apply for benefits. If you have accesses to the internet use the BenefitsCheckUp screening tool by visiting www.benefitscheckup.org. If you don't have computer access call the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1166. .Should lawmakers fail to reach an agreement before midnight on Friday, April 28th, a federal government shutdown will occur. TSCL hopes that Congress will avert a shutdown since Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries would see negative impacts if one were to occur. We will be monitoring the negotiations closely in the coming hours and days and will post progress updates on Twitter. .Let your Representative know what you think! Ask him or her to co-sponsor, H.R. 2745, the No Social Security for Illegal Immigrants Act. Send an email here. .How Much Should You Spend on Vet Care for Your Pets? .These benefits are far from generous. Compared to other industrialized nations, we have one of the most paltry social insurance systems in the world. Seniors have an average Social Security benefit of only ,328 a month. This is not enough to keep someone in the middle class. .Set up a healthcare worksheet with your basic expenses. That can include Medicare premiums for Part B (deducted from your Social Security), Medicare supplement premiums and Part D premiums OR Medicare Advantage premiums. You also need to include deductibles, out-of-pocket co-pays or co-insurance. In addition, include the costs for premiums or out-of-pocket costs for services that Medicare does not cover, including dental, vision and audio. Include the cost of glasses and hearing aids and batteries if you use them.