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Trump administration ends Medicare drug subsidy, raising seniors' prescription costs

Good morning. The Trump administration is ending a Medicare drug subsidy program that helped low‑income seniors pay for prescription medicines. Officials say the change could increase out‑of‑pocket costs for many beneficiaries who rely on the assistance, potentially forcing them to choose between medications and other necessities. Advocates warn that the move may widen gaps in drug affordability for older adults on fixed incomes.

Simultaneously, Humana announced it will exit more Medicare Advantage plans in 2027, which could leave many seniors without their current coverage options. Sentara also said it will end some Medicaid and Medicare plans, adding to concerns about insurer withdrawals. In addition, state attorneys general reported a nursing home crackdown that has grown to $111 million in fraud allegations, and regulators ordered a Hialeah assisted living facility to close after finding multiple violations, highlighting safety and oversight challenges. Meanwhile, advocates marked Medicare’s 61st birthday but cautioned that recent legislative changes threaten the program’s stability.