Older Americans value their Medicare coverage and, because of that, they have always been willing to pay the yearly increase. However, forcing people on Medicare to pay excessive premiums because Congress has failed to fix a flawed physician payment system is just not fair. Congress passed legislation last December that stopped a scheduled 10 percent payment cut to physicians payment increase through June 30.

People with Medicare pay their Part B premiums, which above doubled since the year 2000. They also pay out-of-pocket costs at the hospital and doctor's office and for many supplemental and prescription drug insurance premiums, which all have increased long-term care costs, whether at home or in a nursing home.

It is time for Congress to take action and fix a system that is clearly broken. It cannot keep shifting the costs of a broken health care system onto the backs of older Americans. Tell our Kansas senators Pat Roberts and Sam Brownback that raising Medicare premiums is not the answer. AARP has set up a toll-free number, (800) 867-3150, for you to call and make your voice heard. Please join me in doing so.

Eleanor Tangeman

213 East 32nd