Why the difference in Medicare programs?

Seniors who have to make decisions between traditional Medicare and Medicare Advantage programs need to beware of private companies. Many providers refuse to accept these Advantage programs and people who travel outside their home area (especially snow birds) can often find that they can't get coverage.

These programs can be canceled at any time, causing more confusion, and have been riddled with deceptive, aggressive sales practices. They were created after the Balanced Budget Act of 1997 when these private companies told the government that they could provide the same coverage and rates as traditional Medicare. But these programs cost taxpayers up to 20 percent more.

People need to ask their congressmen why we should expect different results from these same companies during the current health insurance discussions. Private companies place profits and bonuses on the backs of customers. Example: a past CEO of United Health Care insurance company who received $1.6 billion in exercisable options. He also received $1.1 billion, largest golden parachute in corporate America history.

Larry Peter

Manchester