Letter: Congress Needs to Maintain Medicare Advantage

Originally published in the Times Union

If there is one thing I know, it’s that the key to a healthy life is getting up and getting moving. That’s why I’ve spent almost 10 years as a fitness instructor, helping my community find ways to stay active, even during the pandemic.

I love getting to know the people in my classes, many of whom are able to participate because the classes are covered by their Medicare Advantage plans. Without this coverage, they wouldn’t be able to afford to participate. As a Medicare Advantage beneficiary for over 13 years, I know firsthand how many people use the program for dependable, affordable coverage.

Without the affordability of my Medicare Advantage plan, I might not be able to participate in the activities I love, whether that be CrossFit training or traveling. Medicare Advantage allows seniors to keep enjoying life because we don’t have to worry about if we can afford our medication or see a doctor when we feel sick.

Seniors depend on Medicare Advantage to live healthy, fulfilling lives. I urge Congress, especially Sen. Charles Schumer, to consider the extreme downside that would come with taking funding away from this essential healthcare coverage. We need Schumer to stand up for Medicare Advantage and the more than 1.5 million seniors in New York who rely on it.

Dona Wildove

Albany