Joe Biden

House Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-VA) outlined this week a list of Medicare and Medicaid changes, including cuts to healthcare providers, which could save $353 billion over the next 10 years. Cantor's proposals are the result of ongoing deficit reduction negotiations led by Vice President Joe Biden.

Obama administration officials say that trimming payments to nursing homes and other providers would substantially reduce future Medicare and Medicaid outlays. But officials are insisting that Republicans accept tax hikes as a condition for such spending cuts.

Vice President Joe Biden and Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius reassured seniors Thursday that there will be a 50% discount for those who fall into the Medicare Part D "doughnut hole" beginning next year.

The White House reaffirmed its support for the Community Living Assistance Services and Supports (CLASS) Act on Wednesday during a town-hall style meeting. Vice President Joe Biden and Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius hosted the event.