WASHINGTON, DC – The Connecticut House delegation today applauded the appointment of Judith Stein, founder and executive director of the Center for Medicare Advocacy in Willimantic, to the Bipartisan Long-Term Care Commission. Created earlier this year as part of the American Tax Relief Act, the commission is responsible for developing a plan to establish, implement, and finance a comprehensive set of long-term care services for seniors and people with disabilities. Last month, Reps. Joe Courtney, Rosa DeLauro, John Larson, Jim Himes and Elizabeth Esty wrote to House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi urging her to appoint Stein to the commission.

Focused on legal representation of the elderly since beginning her legal career in 1975, Judith Stein was the Co-Director of Legal Assistance to Medicare Patients (LAMP), where she managed the first Medicare advocacy program in the country. She has extensive experience in developing and administering Medicare advocacy projects, representing Medicare beneficiaries, producing educational materials, teaching and consulting. She has been lead or co-counsel in numerous federal class action and individual cases challenging improper Medicare policies and denials.

"I cannot think of a single person better equipped than Judy Stein to serve on this commission as it addresses the issues facing seniors and our aging Baby Boomer population," said Congressman Courtney. "Over the past 25 years, Judy has transformed the Center for Medicare Advocacy from a local voice into a national leader on Medicare and Medicaid policy. I am extremely pleased that her years of experience and expertise will be put to good use as the commission tackles big challenges ahead."

"There is no greater champion for seniors than Judy Stein, who has worked tirelessly on behalf of the people of Connecticut and all Americans to ensure they have access to the health care they need and deserve." said DeLauro. "The unparalleled experience she will bring to the Commission is imperative as this important panel works to fulfill its mission, and should bring comfort to American families knowing that they have someone who truly understands and will represent their needs."

"With over 30 years of experience working with Medicare beneficiaries, Judith Stein will be an invaluable asset to the Long-Term Care Commission," said Congressman Larson. "The wealth of knowledge and understanding she brings to the table are unparalleled, and will no doubt benefit this commission in their work to strengthen our nation's long-term care systems."

"Seniors and families across the country will have an impressive advocate in Judy Stein as she joins the Long-Term Care Commission," Himes said. "Her advocacy and expertise have served us well at the Center for Medicare Advocacy, and we're lucky to have her working on our behalf as we address the challenges associated with reforming and protecting the programs that serve our aging population."

"With her decades of experience as an advocate for elderly Americans and Medicare beneficiaries, Judy Stein will provide a critical voice for seniors, people with disabilities, and all Americans with long-term care needs," said Congresswoman Esty. "I feel certain that our country will benefit from Judy's knowledge, experience, and leadership on long-term care issues, and I'm grateful for her willingness to serve."

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