Times are difficult for everyone right now, but if Congress has their way, they’ll get even worse for the millions of seniors who have found that coordinated healthcare through Medicare Advantage Drug Plans (MAPDs) is the smartest, most cost-effective, and “healthiest” alternative to traditional Medicare.

What’s Happening?

Talks about Medicare reform have been going on for some time. Finally it looks as if some thing may actually happen. However, Congress is considering drastic changes to America’s Medicare system, which could increase out-of-pocket costs, decrease the quality of care for million of seniors, put America’s most frail population at risk, our seniors.    

Without input from seniors, physicians, MAPD members, Congress is at a disadvantage to truly understand what is working and what isn’t where Medicare is concerned.  According to Donald Crane, President and CEO of California Association of Physician Groups (CAPG), “Reform may be needed, but we mustn’t throw the baby out with the bath water as they look to overhaul our nation’s antiquated Medicare system.”

Seniors on Medicare Advantage plans get so much more than what traditional Medicare offers.  MAPDs provide affordable, comprehensive healthcare with superior benefits that focus on getting and keeping seniors well such as:

• Annual wellness and age related preventive screenings, some of which are not covered or are limited by traditional Medicare
• Lower out-of –pocket costs
• A broad range of additional services that are not covered by traditional Medicare, such as  vision, hearing, fitness, mental health, and dental care
• Increased prescription coverage
• Comprehensive disease management for the chronically ill

Current Medicare reform talks put at risk the dollars funding Medicare and the coordinated care system offered by Medicare Advantage plans.  

Who’s Most Vulnerable?

If Medicare Advantage plans are reduced, seniors on low/fixed-incomes and those with significant medical needs will be hit the hardest.  But in the long run, all seniors will suffer.

What Can You Do?

CAPG, many physicians, and concerned citizens are taking a proactive interest in the healthcare options for the current growing senior population and what medical benefits will be available to future seniors.

Let your voice be heard!  Please send a message to your congressional representative to protect and expand coordinated healthcare for all seniors.