Maine has a strong and growing senior population, and with that comes real implications for our communities and healthcare system. In a largely rural state, where long drives to see a doctor are common and transportation can be a challenge, seniors need care that is reliable, simple and affordable. That’s why Medicare Advantage matters.

Rather than forcing seniors to piece together coverage, Medicare Advantage offers plans that clearly show what’s covered and what costs to expect. That predictability is essential for those living on fixed incomes or caring for aging family members.

These plans often include benefits traditional Medicare does not, such as prescription drug coverage, dental, vision and hearing care. Many also provide transportation to appointments or short-term support like in-home care or meal delivery after a hospital stay — helping seniors recover safely and avoid unnecessary return visits.

From my time in the Maine House, I’ve learned that cutting programs that improve health outcomes doesn’t save money — it shifts costs onto families and already strained local hospitals.
Medicare Advantage isn’t perfect, but it works for millions of seniors nationwide and many here in Maine. 

I thank Sen. Susan Collins for protecting and strengthening Medicare Advantage. As debate picks up in Washington, D.C., staying focused on things like protecting coordinated care, predictable costs and the extra benefits that help seniors stay healthy, independent and in their homes longer is important.

Hon. Phil Curtis
Madison