Medicare Advantage has been life changing for my family

My mom is an 88-year-old widow. Five years ago, due to a series of unfortunate circumstances, it was time to step in as her caregiver and to manage her affairs in the most sensible way possible.

One of the first things I looked at was her health coverage.

Her plan at the time was expensive — about $500/month, not including prescriptions. I looked into alternatives and learned about a zero-premium Medicare Advantage plan.

Her prescriptions are included, and she could keep her same doctors, pharmacy and other medical services.

Even our nearest Scottsdale hospital is part of the network. Since switching to a Medicare Advantage plan in 2015, I estimate mom has saved $24,000 in premiums. That’s a lot of money for anyone. For a senior on a fixed income, it’s life-changing.

It’s no surprise that COVID-19 is now a primary concern of Scottsdale seniors and caregivers like me. MA plans cover cost-sharing for COVID-19 testing as well as treatment, in many cases. We’re doing everything we can to keep mom safe and healthy, but knowing these benefits are available means peace of mind.

My mom and I appreciate that Medicare Advantage is strongly supported by Arizona’s congressional delegation, including Reps. David Schweikert and Tom O’Halleran.

Before the virus outbreak this spring, we even participated in a roundtable discussion with Rep. Tom O’Halleran at the Granite Reef Senior Center where he shared with us his support for Medicare Advantage. It’s good to know our congressional representatives are looking out for us and our parents.

Arlyne Haraburda

Scottsdale

Originally published in the Scottsdale Independent