Ferkaluk: Stand up for Arizona seniors and support Medicare Advantage

Mary Ferkaluk

Submitted photo

Like many Americans, Arizona seniors are being squeezed by high prices from the grocery store to the gas pump.

Meanwhile, the cost of health care just keeps going up. That’s why Medicare Advantage is so important: This program keeps health care affordable for seniors.

I’m concerned by reports that Medicare Advantage plans could look different this fall, with higher premiums, fewer benefits or both. Washington bureaucrats have been targeting Medicare Advantage for cuts and piling on new regulations. It’s seniors like me who will pay the price.

I chose Medicare Advantage for my Medicare coverage because it fits in with my budget. I pay one low monthly premium, which also includes benefits like dental and vision. Medicare Advantage makes it easy to put my health first.

Medicare enrollment begins soon, and seniors will be choosing their plans for next year. We need our representatives to stand up for Medicare Advantage and protect seniors from more changes to the program — especially Rep. David Schweikert, who sits on the Ways and Means Committee.

Seniors shouldn’t be collateral damage in Washington’s games. Our health care should be a priority. 

Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at AzOpinions@iniusa.org.