Medicare Advantage protects seniors’ health, finances

As a policy aide in Cook County, I’ve spent my career speaking up for people who need advocates, including families in poverty and Illinois children. Here, I’d like to bring attention to an issue that is vital to thousands of senior citizens across Illinois: Medicare Advantage.

This highly successful program is part of Medicare and gives beneficiaries a full- service health plan. For seniors in my district who rely on Medicare Advantage, it can be a literal life- saver. The plans focus on preventative care, so seniors get immunizations and screenings for cancer, heart disease and more. They also get expert help managing chronic conditions, so symptoms don’t worsen; and, when they have a crisis, they get care to put them on the mend. All of this comes at an affordable cost — often no monthly premium and a few dollars’ co- pay for each service — making this program critically important for low- income seniors. They can protect their health without jeopardizing their finances.

Anyone who cares for a senior in their family should support Medicare Advantage. Our communities are made stronger by the life experience, volunteerism and other contributions senior citizens provide.

The congressional leaders serving the Chicagoland community should continue their support of Medicare Advantage as this program keeps our valued seniors healthy, financially secure, and able to live life on their terms. U. S. Rep. Bobby Rush, D- Ill., has been a strong supporter of this issue and I hope his colleagues in Congress continue to support this program and keep rates affordable for our seniors in the year ahead.

Justin Slaughter, state representative, 27th District

New category

I love the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences’ new category: Best Picture for a minute. Rob Hall, Oak Forest

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