LETTER TO THE EDITOR - Seniors: Vote to protect Medicare
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
In this year's election, seniors like me are not taking a backseat.
We make up one of the largest voter blocs in Wisconsin, and we’re ready to wield our voting power to elect leaders who address our concerns. While the cost of living continues to climb as we navigate retirement, we’re looking for lawmakers prepared to commit to our needs.
Across Wisconsin, our elderly population is growing at unprecedented rates, and retirement housing and caregiver staff may not be able to keep pace. This uncertainty leaves many of us worried about what our health infrastructure will look like as we all grow older.
Along with our booming populam tion, inflation and higher living costs are already stretching many seniors too thin. Hospital visits and prescription drug expenses are rising as I enter an age where I need access to reliable health care more than ever.
One program that adequately addresses the financial concerns of aging is Medicare Advantage. My Medicare Advantage plan provides more comprehensive coverage and lower premiums than traditional Medicare.
With affordable rates and caps on out-of-pocket costs along with extensive supplemental benefits, I can afford the essential health care I need. Most other plans for retirees are becoming too expensive or have limited coverage options. But with my program, I don’t have to second-guess my coverage.
I'm just one story of 33 million seniors and people with disabilities who use Medicare Advantage. Despite overwhelming support from a majority of enrollees, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has continuously reduced funding for the program.
Reductions to the program’s funding undermine the financial security and coverage options for seniors like me — seniors who need this program to access health care.
As we look to the next wave of leaders across all levels, we are watching closely for those willing to fight for our livelihoods. Protecting Medicare Advantage and other programs that enhance affordable care will undoubtedly attract our support. And as an influential power at the polls, seniors are not a demographic to push to the sidelines - we're turning out to vote in full force.
Nancy Stencil Rib Mountain
