Let’s adequately fund current programs first

In the May 6 editorial “Let’s start out with long-term care for all”

(p. 24), the author notes, “With 10% of the population suffering from disabilities and half the baby boom generation entering retirement without significant assets, coming up with a national plan that works is long overdue.”

Before expanding the role of the federal government, shouldn’t we first ensure that existing programs (and obligations) are funded over the foreseeable future (say 25 years, or ideally 75 years)? Let’s consider the current shortfalls in both Medicare and Social Security.

The Medicare trust fund is now projected to be exhausted in 2026, Social Security disability in 2032 and retirement in 2035. Once the trust funds are depleted, benefits get cut.

While it’s fun to promise new benefits without specifying how they will be funded (or even how they would function), the reality is that whoever is president in a few years will have to address current Medicare and Social Security. I suggest this magazine start covering this tsunami before it’s too late, perhaps by questioning all presidential candidates about how they intend to manage current federal obligations.

Jim Price Principal Progressive Healthcare Roswell, Ga.