Patrick Liggett: Denham helps protect Medicare Advantage

So many senior citizens live on fixed incomes, trying to survive on whatever they get from Social Security, which often barely covers living expenses. Unfortunately, the retirement years are also when we start facing more health problems. At this stage of our lives, we can’t manage exorbitant medical costs.

That’s why it’s important for our elected officials to make sure the Medicare Advantage program, which provides affordable healthcare, does not suffer additional cuts. Seniors should appreciate all that Rep. Jeff Denham is doing to oppose these cuts. Almost half of the 16 million seniors enrolled in Medicare Advantage live on a yearly income of less than $20,000. That leaves very little wiggle room in the household budget. Paying more for medical expenses means making tough decisions, like choosing between medications and food. It becomes a life-or-death decision for some. When seniors can’t afford access to proper medical care, death can result.

Our Congressional representatives must o act on their constituents’ behalf and protect Medicare Advantage. I hope Rep. Denham can convince his colleagues to join him in opposing cuts to this program before seniors go to the polls in the next election.

This story was originally published March 8, 2016 at 10:42 AM with the headline "Patrick Liggett: Denham helps protect Medicare Advantage."