Defend Medicare Advantage: A Lifeline for Seniors and Veterans

As the November elections draw near, the issue of affordable health care for seniors is gaining traction among Arizona lawmakers. For older Arizonans, this isn’t merely a topic for discussion; it’s a pressing concern influencing their daily lives and financial stability.

Veterans in Arizona share similar challenges. Many, including myself, depend on Medicare Advantage plans alongside the VA for their health care needs. Recent research indicates that over 35% of U.S. veterans utilize Medicare Advantage, attracted by its extensive coverage.

These plans encompass not just routine medical care but also include dental, vision, and hearing services, often absent from traditional Medicare. Additionally, they facilitate a wide array of preventative care and even access to fitness programs.

For veterans residing in rural areas of Arizona, getting medical attention can pose significant difficulties, especially when close to VA facilities. Medicare Advantage addresses this by offering coverage for both in-person and telehealth consultations, making health care more accessible.

Although other political issues may often dominate the headlines, healthcare remains a critical concern for voters. According to a Pew Research poll conducted this spring, health care affordability ranks as the third most important issue among all voters, second only to inflation and political gridlock.

This concern is particularly pronounced among seniors living on fixed incomes. The Medicare Advantage program offers plans with low monthly premiums and caps on out-of-pocket expenses, which is a significant relief for many.

Medicare Advantage enjoys bipartisan support. I would like to acknowledge Congressman Ruben Gallego for his ongoing advocacy for Arizona seniors, emphasizing the critical need for affordable health care options.

As we approach the ballot box, Arizonans over the age of 50 will be particularly attentive to which candidates prioritize health care affordability and choice. In the previous election, this demographic accounted for more than half of the votes cast.

It is crucial for Arizona’s elected officials to recognize that Medicare Advantage represents more than budgetary figures; it serves as a vital resource for nearly 700,000 residents, including veterans like me.

David Lucier, a combat veteran and Green Beret, resides in Tempe.