The issues

Medicare and Medicare Advantage

One of the most important issues facing our country is the explosive growth in the cost of the Medicare program, which continues to stretch our nation's financial resources, burden taxpayers and threaten our already fragile economy. According to projections, the problem will only get worse, with Medicare consuming an ever greater percentage of America's gross domestic product.

The current, Original Fee-for-Service Medicare program is not designed to achieve outcomes beyond paying beneficiaries' claims and guarding against fraud and abuse in the program. Lawmakers built the Medicare program on this limited model in 1965 – and little has changed.

Now more than ever, our nation must use its health care dollars wisely. Instead of simply curing illness, we must foster wellness and develop ongoing strategies to coordinate care, manage chronic disease and improve overall health.

The Medicare Advantage program unites these elements, making it an important choice for people with Medicare and a valuable tool that – over the long term – can help the Medicare system overcome its cost challenge.

Medicare Advantage plans help people get and stay healthy with a coordinated approach to health care, as well as chronic care and wellness programs. Resources in Medicare Advantage plans include everything from senior-focused exercise and nutrition programs to disease management programs and 24/7 telephonic nurse support.

Wellness-focused coverage choices like Medicare Advantage help improve the health of beneficiaries while lowering costs associated with the Medicare program.