President George Bush proposed a two part strategy with initial implemented drug coverage to low-income beneficiaries coupled with a White House task force to develop a plan to reform Medicare (Health Policy, 2001). Under this plan beneficiaries with income 135% below the national poverty guidelines would be eligible for full prescription drug coverage and a sliding scale would be provided for those under 175% (Health Policy 2001).

The most controversial aspect of these proposals was whether or not Medicare should remain a public insurance that is managed by the federal government. Supporters felt that this program should continue existing programs in scope and nature while opponents claim that a program of this sort should exist in the private market. Proposals suggested that a national standard for drug benefits should be established with all beneficiaries being eligible for standard benefits and increased benefits being given to those who incur catastrophic expenses....
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