Letter: Support Medicare Advantage

February 22, 2022

Originally published in the Caledonian Record

It seems to me that we often take the little things for granted. For example, I never realized how lucky I was to be able to hear clearly until I became hard of hearing several years ago. All my life, I had relied on my hearing to chat with my friends and loved ones, hear the news, and listen to music. Then, suddenly, that capacity was gone. I wasn’t sure how I was going to interact with others and go about my life.

Recently, however, my doctor has informed me that I might be able to get cochlear implants, which could drastically improve my hearing. Unfortunately, this surgery is quite expensive. Without insurance, it can cost anywhere from $30,000 to $50,000! Thankfully, my Medicare Advantage plan should cover most of the cost, making the procedure much more affordable. I can’t wait to have my life back.

My Medicare Advantage benefits extend far beyond making my cochlear implants more accessible, though. Thanks to my coverage, I have reasonable caps on out-of-pocket expenses; a single, streamlined plan for prescription medications, doctors’ visits, and vision; and affordable premiums. At the end of the day, the coverage works perfectly for me.

I urge New Hampshire’s representatives not to take Medicare Advantage for granted. Thousands of granite staters rely on Medicare Advantage to get the care they need. Please continue to help seniors like me get the care they count on and vote to protect our coverage.

John O’Brien

Whitefield, N. H.