Federal Taxes

Medicare and Social Security: What Do You Think?

Though it sounds like we spend a lot of our tax dollars on Medicare, there are many countries with a universal healthcare system; a system which provides health care for all citizens, not just those over 65 as Medicare provides. Proponents of universal healthcare systems claim that healthcare is a right for all people, and that ensuring the health of citizens benefits the economy. Opponents say that it is extremely costly and lowers the quality of care.

You've decided to run for one of the two senate positions in your state, and one of your first public events is a debate with your opponent. You already know that you're going to be asked if you support funding for Social Security and Medicare at their current level of benefits, so you must prepare your response. If you support current funding levels, how will these programs be fully funded? If you support reducing current funding levels, what will happen to seniors who have not saved for retirement or can’t pay their medical bills?

Once you have finished outlining the details of your speech, create a podcast using the audio recording information found in the Developmental Module. Be sure to review the Health Care Podcast Rubric before you begin to determine how your assignment will be evaluated. When your podcast is complete, submit it to the dropbox.