Coalition Members Meet Virtually with the Office of Senator Shaheen

Six members of the Coalition for Medicare Choices (CMC) recently had the chance to participate in a virtual meeting with the office of Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH). The group discussed how Medicare Advantage provides better services, better access to care, and better value to seniors and individuals with disabilities.

Coalition member Scott discussed the importance of Medicare Advantage for those at Granite State Independent Living (GSIL). Scott pointed out that more than 90% of Medicare Advantage seniors are satisfied with their coverage according to a recent survey. He shared that many individuals at GSIL depend on Medicare Advantage for their medical coverage.

Lisabritt, another Coalition member, shared that Medicare Advantage is a wonderful program that makes a difference for people living with disabilities. The efficiencies and cost-saving nature of Medicare Advantage make the program an effective way to pair private health insurance with federally mandated care. She added that many individuals who rely on Medicare Advantage are on a fixed income and need the affordability it provides.

Coalition member Tony said the transition to Medicare Advantage was very easy and the program provides “more information than he can take in.” Since choosing Medicare Advantage in 2017, Tony said he has enjoyed issue-free coverage. He also valued the personal attention he receives, something he said he never expected.

Joan, a state representative, said the value and affordability of Medicare Advantage has been a huge relief to her. Last year, she had cataract surgery in both eyes, but thanks to Medicare Advantage, her out-of-pocket costs were extremely manageable. Without Medicare Advantage, she said she wouldn’t have been able to afford the surgeries. When she needed new glasses after the procedures, Medicare Advantage covered 100% of the costs.

Coalition member Deborah said that case management and preventive care set Medicare Advantage apart from other plans. She praised the care coordination that helps seniors take advantage of all the resources available to them. Deborah also highlighted the creative ways, such as telehealth coverage, that Medicare Advantage makes sure patients get the care they need.

Bob, another Coalition member, has worked with seniors and understands the important role Medicare Advantage plays in their lives. Many people who are part of the state retirement system enroll in Medicare Advantage, and they couldn’t be happier with their coverage. Beneficiaries, he said, love that their premiums have not increased, but their benefits often do.

Senator Shaheen’s staff member thanked the seniors for sharing their stories. She noted that the Senator recently signed on to a support letter for Medicare Advantage, which showed the strong bipartisan support the program has.

The CMC is grateful to the office of Senator Shaheen for meeting with our Coalition members and for her continued support of Medicare Advantage.