Congressman Adam Smith believes that we need a long-term solution to our health care problems.  Currently, there is a decline in access to doctors, hospitals, nurses and home health care for seniors on Medicare in Washington state and prescription drug costs are rising dramatically, while generics are not getting into the marketplace quickly.  

The reality is that we have a ‘perfect storm’ brewing: health care inflation is rising quickly, and, as the baby boomers retire, we will face simultaneously the influx of seniors into the program and dramatically rising health care costs.  Fundamental reforms are needed that focus on healthy outcomes, gives seniors health care options, provides coverage for prescription drugs, and ensures the program is viable for future generations.  

Members of the media are invited to attend both the Firs Retirement Community meeting and the visit to Valley Medical Center.  For further information on the meetings or to speak with Smith during the day, please contact Katharine Lister at (202) 226-8454.

1:00p.m. – 2:00p.m.  
Address to the Firs Retirement Community about health care, prescription drugs, Medicaid, Medicare and reimbursement rates and Smith’s MediFair Bill.
Where: Firs Retirement Community 
426 Lilly Road NE, Olympia

5:00p.m. – 6:00p.m.  
Visit with Valley Medical Center to discuss a variety of health care issues with representatives from Washington State Hospital Association, SEIU and Washington Citizen Action. 
Where: Valley Medical Center, Renton