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Opinion | Alabama veterans and seniors need a strong Medicare advantage

Seniors and veterans deserve to know that the care they rely on today will still be there tomorrow. 

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As a retired Army soldier, I served this country in uniform for 25 years. Today, I serve as the CEO of Global K9 Protection Group here in Alabama. I know how important it is to care for those who have given so much. That is why I am speaking out now to protect Medicare Advantage. 

Medicare Advantage provides care to tens of millions of seniors and veterans, including many here in Alabama. More than 34 million Americans—including over 680,000 Alabamians—have chosen it because of the expansive coverage it offers. It offers better value and more complete care than traditional, fee-for-service Medicare alone. 

The difference shows up in daily life. Nearly all Medicare Advantage plans cover dental, vision, and hearing—and not at extra costs, but built right in. They often cover prescription drugs. They even provide transportation for medical appointments and meal delivery after a hospital stay. These benefits go above and beyond FFS Medicare to keep seniors healthy and independent. 

Veterans, in particular, understand the value of programs like Medicare Advantage. Many of us rely on a mix of health care through both the VA and Medicare. Medicare Advantage fills in the gaps. It offers coordinated care that helps veterans manage chronic conditions. And caps on out-of-pocket spending also help ensure no veteran is forced to choose between paying a bill or getting the care they need. 

In rural Alabama, the program matters even more. Long drives to see a doctor, limited access to specialists, and high costs can all stand in the way of good health. Medicare Advantage helps bridge that gap. It makes care more affordable and accessible. 

Unfortunately, this invaluable coverage could be jeopardized. The No UPCODE Act moving through Congress would cut Medicare Advantage. It would reduce funding, take away supplemental benefits, and raise costs and premiums for seniors. For veterans, it would mean losing services we count on. For rural Alabamians, it would mean fewer options and more barriers. 

We cannot let that happen. Seniors and veterans have earned these benefits through a lifetime of work and service. They deserve to know that the care they rely on today will still be there tomorrow. 

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Seniors are watching this issue closely. In a recent national poll, more than 8 out of 10 senior voters (82 percent) said they believe cuts to the program will have a negative impact on their health and well-being. Nearly 7 in 10 say they would be less likely to vote for a member of Congress who supported cutting the program. Seniors know what is at stake, so Congress should as well. 

That is why I am calling on Alabama’s lawmakers to stand up now. Protect Medicare Advantage. Oppose the No UPCODE Act. Keep this program strong for veterans, for seniors, and for every American who depends on it. 

When I put on the uniform, I promised to defend this country. Today, I am asking Congress to do the same for the people who built it. Protect Medicare Advantage and help keep it strong. Alabama veterans and seniors are counting on you.

Eric Hare serves as CEO of Global K9 Protection Group based in Opelika, Alabama.

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