Letter: Medicare Advantage programs

Originally published in the Piscataquis Observer

As a semi-retired health care provider with over 40 years of experience, my health and health care are a priority.  Unfortunately for many older Mainer’s and seniors across the country, quality health care is becoming too expensive for the household budget.

After researching all of the available plans for retirement, I enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan. This keeps my costs low while giving me access to care and benefits usually associated with expensive plans. Medicare Advantage plans have an average monthly premium of $19. Medicare Advantage is, in my opinion, the most affordable and comprehensive health care program available to senior citizens.

In addition to fixed, low monthly premiums my plan caps out-of-pocket expenses so unexpected health care needs will not cost more than the capped amount. Even with major surgery, Medicare Advantage allows me to focus on my health and recovery rather than expenses and bills. These plans have helped and are helping many Mainers from all walks of life to be worry-free regarding health care costs and be able to seek medical care when needed, not when it can be afforded. It also relieves the stress and worry of the costs, allowing seniors to better enjoy retirement and family.

I would like to thank U.S. Sen. King and U.S. Sen. Collins for their continued support for senior citizen health/health care by advocating for Medicare Advantage programs.

Gary Tormollan