Trump issues executive order to modernize Medicare while visiting The Villages

THE VILLAGES, Fla. — President Donald Trump visited The Villages on Thursday afternoon to discuss his plans to strengthen Medicare.

Trump issued an executive order designed to modernize Medicare by opening up avenues for more medical telehealth services, which is care delivered by phone or other digital platforms.

He said this would cut costs by directly lowering the number of expensive emergency rooms visits by patient. In turn, officials said the lower cost would help with the program's finances.

"It is about getting better when you're sick," Trump said. "It's about improving your well-being and getting the treatment you need."

He said under his order, there will be more plan choices in 2020 than in 2018.

Trump said the overall goal is to reduce the cost of premiums and deductibles for overall doctors visits.

"We are going to protect Medicare for you, for everyone in The Villages, for every senior across this magnificent land," he said. "You are going to be protected."​​​​​​​

The visit comes during a tense time in Washington, D.C. Trump is facing an impeachment inquiry was launched after a whistleblower contacted members of Congress with concerns about a phone call Trump made in July to the president of Ukraine.

Watch Trump's full speech below:

Watch Air Force One arrive at Ocala International Airport below:

Watch Air Force One depart from Ocala International Airport below:

​​​​​​​

DOWNLOAD: Free WFTV News & Weather Apps

Not near a TV? Click here to watch WFTV newscasts live

Watch Live: Doppler 9 HD 

Cox Media Group