The FDA is particularly concerned that these deceptive and misleading products might cause Americans to delay or stop appropriate medical treatment, leading to serious and life-threatening harm. It's likely that the products do not do what they claim, and the ingredients in them could cause adverse effects and could interact with, and potentially interfere with, essential medications. ."Reducing the cost of prescription drugs is essential for both Medicare beneficiaries and Medicare's finances," says Mary Johnson, a Medicare policy analyst for The Senior Citizens League (TSCL). The average monthly Social Security retiree benefit is just ,552, while spending on prescription drugs is the fastest growing cost that most retirees face in retirement," she says. Over time, drug costs take a growing portion of Social Security income, because prices are rising several times faster than annual cost of living adjustments (COLAs). .Fifth, one new cosponsor – Representative Steve Cohen (TN-9) – signed on to the Nursing Home CARE Act (H.R. 4704), bringing the total up to twenty-five. If adopted, H.R. 4704 would protect Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries by more quickly codifying emergency preparedness rules for nursing home facilities that receive funding from the federal government. .The Consumer Price Index for Elderly Consumers (CPI-E) Act — Congressman John Garamendi (CA-3) introduced the bipartisan CPI-E Act in the 115th Congress, and in TSCL's December meeting with his office, he committed to re-introducing the bill once again in 201If adopted, his bill would enhance Social Security benefits by basing cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) on an inflation index specifically for seniors. Under current law, COLAs are based on the way young, urban workers spend their money. .Once again, the question among some is whether it is allergies or Covid or something else. .With it looking increasingly likely that Social Security beneficiaries will receive the highest COLA in seven years —about 3.3% in 2019 — proponents of "chaining" the COLA are likely to try to argue that the COLA under current law overpays recipients. Proponents of using the chained consumer price index to calculate the COLA claim that the chained consumer price index (CPI) is more "accurate" in calculating the COLA because it takes into account how people substitute other items when prices change. .Medicare open enrollment: It pays to get it right .Speaker of the House Paul Ryan announced earlier this year that he wants to overhaul entitlement spending. TSCL is concerned that, after the elections, Congress could address rising deficits by moving legislation that would cut Social Security benefits. .Medicare Advantage plans offer comprehensive hospitalization, doctor, and outpatient services through selected network providers, and most also include coverage of prescription drugs. Typically, premiums for Medicare Advantage plans can be 60% less than premiums for a Medigap supplement and a prescription drug plan. Many also offer extra benefits that are not covered by Medicare, like vision or dental benefits.