Medicare is no entitlement

I can't understand the constant use of the word "entitlement" when it comes to Medicare. It is no more of an entitlement than that of a person who buys private health insurance.

In 1965 when Medicare started, we started having a portion of every paycheck deducted for Medicare (I was 23 at that time) and over the next 42 years the deductions continued. The amount of the deduction continued to rise every year as my income rose.

Then when turning 65 and enrolling in Medicare Part B, I started paying a monthly premium that again is adjusted upward by the amount I earn, along with an additional supplement insurance policy I have to buy that pays any amounts that Medicare approves but does not pay for the difference between the full charge and what Medicare pays. Medicare only allows for 12 physical therapy sessions per year. So if I need more, I must pay for them on my own.

Also, I must pay an additional premium for my Part D prescription coverage. This prescription coverage has some drugs that are not covered.

Don't even get me started on Social Security.

JOE HENDERSON

Modesto