[THIS IS THE PERIODIC BRIEFING FROM THE WHITE HOUSE TO ITS OFFICIALS AND OTHER SUPPORTERS OF ITS HEALTH-REFORM PROGRAM. IT PROVIDES AN INSIDE LOOK AT HOW THE ADMINISTRATION IS PROMOTING ITS PLAN. THIS ITEM WILL ALWAYS HAVE THE SAME SUBJECT LINE (WITH DIFFERENT DATES) SO YOU CAN EASILY SKIP IT IF YOU DO NOT WISH TO READ IT. -- Steve Freedkin , LIST.HEALTHPLAN Administrator (*not* a government official)] The White House Health Care Reform Today December 8, 1993 * Health Security is the bottom line-- the President has made very clear that he will sign no bill that doesn't meet the goal of universal coverage. We believe the best approach to universal coverage is to build on the existing, employer-based system-- one in which 9 out of 10 people with private insurance get coverage through the workplace. The President wants to fix what's broken, but leave in place what works well. That's why we believe in employer responsibility for health care. In keeping with highlighting issues of concern this week with older Americans, here are highlights on retiree issues: People who retire early will no longer have to live in fear of losing their health benefits. The plan guarantees all Americans -- including seniors -- health care security, and enhances the benefits older Americans have today. Retirees, like working Americans, will be responsible for no more than 20% of the average cost of health premiums. * Retired people between the ages of 55 and 65 who have worked for at least 10 years but are not yet eligible for Medicare will only pay the 10% individual share. * Early retirees also may get assistance for their share of the premium, if their former employers have contractual obligations or chose to pay for retiree health benefits. Retirees with incomes near the poverty level will receive assistance from the federal government to assist with these costs. * Since all early retirees would be in the regional alliances, they would be guaranteed the same comprehensive benefits package as everyone else. In addition, Medicare savings will be invested in new benefits for older Americans, including coverage for prescription drugs and a new community based long-term care program. * To set the record straight, the American Medical Association invited the President to speak to their House of Delegates meeting in New Orleans. Due to a long scheduled meeting with the Prime Minister of Spain, the President was unable to attend. The AMA was offered the opportunity to hear from the First Lady or Senior Policy Advisor Ira Magaziner. They declined.