Coalition Members Meet Virtually with the Office of Representative Torres

Five members of the Coalition for Medicare Choices (CMC) recently met virtually with the office of Representative Norma Torres (D-CA-35) to discuss the extensive benefits they can access through Medicare Advantage.

Coalition member Violeta began by saying, “I have been blessed with this Medicare Advantage plan.” She explained that when she suffered from pneumonia, her Medicare Advantage plan made sure she received the treatment and care she needed, including having medicine delivered to her home late at night which helped her to breathe. Violeta told the group that the COVID-19 pandemic “was so horrible, but thanks to this plan, we were able to have the treatments my husband and I needed.” She concluded by saying, “I think that everyone should get a Medicare Advantage plan. Everything we’ve ever needed has been supplied by Medicare Advantage.”

Bryan, a Coalition member and emergency medical technician, spoke about doing inter-facility transports, and how “it makes me happy anytime I’m able to provide that transportation service to a senior directly to or from their home.” Because of the transportation benefit that Medicare Advantage provides, he and his colleagues were able to assist patients in their homes during the pandemic, helping them avoid overcrowded medical facilities and stay with their families.

Jose spoke on behalf of his father, who is a Medicare Advantage enrollee. He said, “for us, my dad has been utilizing these resources and the program has really helped him out.” Last year, Jose’s father was admitted to the hospital due to a couple of health complications. Medicare Advantage allowed him to access great care in the hospital and provided additional resources to improve his health when he returned home. Jose shared, “Medicare Advantage has allowed my dad to live a healthier lifestyle.”

Robert, another Coalition member, told the group how Medicare Advantage has been a lifeline as he dealt with various medical issues. When he was unexpectedly diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, Robert said, “Medicare Advantage kicked in and I was able to get the medication, specialists, and the rehab for two months that I needed.” When he had eye problems, he was able to get cataract surgery which saved his sight. He added that during the COVID-19 crisis, “Medicare Advantage was there for me, assuring me I was covered and that I wouldn’t have to worry about anything. I’m living proof of what Medicare Advantage can do, and I appreciate the program.”

Representative Torres’ staff assured CMC members that the well-being of her constituents is a top priority, and Rep. Torres will do what she can to help them.

The CMC is grateful to the office of Representative Torres for meeting with our Coalition members.