Pixabay License – Monsterkoi

In a previous post, I discussed the critical issues facing home health care aides, highlighting their inadequate pay and the lack of appreciation for their vital roles. During my five years in this profession, my passion for the job was overshadowed by the struggle to survive on such low earnings. It baffles me that roles dedicated to assisting the most vulnerable are not rewarded with better compensation. Our nation seems fixated on corporate profits, often at the expense of pressing humanitarian needs.

Now, I turn to another urgent issue: the financial challenges that seniors face with the healthcare system. Why must seniors, after decades of contributing to Medicare, still shoulder the burden of additional costs through Medi-Gap, drug plans, or Medicare Advantage Plans? These expenses can escalate to unmanageable levels, a problem that should have been addressed by Congress long ago.

Recently, news outlets have been covering the dissatisfaction of companies like Humana with their declining profits in the Medicare Advantage sector. Yet, the focus remains troublingly skewed towards profits rather than addressing the numerous issues consumers face with these plans, such as high co-pays, denied procedures, and frustrating delays.

Personally, I was inclined to opt for a Medi-Gap plan, aware of the potential pitfalls of Medicare Advantage plans. However, due to cost concerns, I enrolled in an AARP – United Health Care Medicare Advantage Plan, which has no premium.

My plan is set to activate on June 1st, and although I’ve received my approval letter and I.D. number, trying to confirm the details of the plan’s provider network turned into a frustrating hour-long ordeal with overseas customer service representatives. After numerous transfers, I ended up speaking with a salesperson that was unable to assist and directed me back to the department I’d originally called. The lack of straightforward assistance was disheartening, especially considering the potential future needs for serious medical pre-authorizations.

I wonder, as I grow older, what challenges I might face affording my own healthcare. No senior should have to forgo necessary health benefits due to financial constraints. We must strive for a healthcare system that prioritizes fairness and patient care over corporate profits. The frequent issues of denials, delays, and payment problems within these plans signal a desperate need for an overhaul and tighter regulation of Medicare Advantage plans.

Moreover, a doctor’s office I regularly visited in Montgomery County, MD, recently informed me they no longer accept United Health Care Insurance, including their Medicare Advantage plans. The reasons were not disclosed, but this development is troubling for all patients under such plans, indicating a growing issue with provider networks.

It’s clear that resolving issues within a multifaceted and costly system is no simple task. However, it’s crucial that bureaucratic hurdles and the high costs of medications and healthcare services do not prevent vulnerable groups from accessing necessary medical care. I envision a future where our nation embraces a healthcare model that prioritizes compassionate and effective treatment over corporate profits.