Access to low-cost, high-quality health care coverage is one of the most important factors in determining quality of life for tens of millions of seniors in Louisiana and across the country. That’s why past and potential future cuts to the Medicare Advantage program are so concerning.
As an Advocate & Community Engagement Specialist, I help connect seniors to the essential services they need. Through my involvement with local councils on aging and community agencies, I’ve seen firsthand how access to Medicare Advantage can be lifechanging for some of our most vulnerable and medically at-risk neighbors.
Medicare Advantage plays a vital role in reaching low-income, minority, and traditionally underserved communities. The population it serves is notably more diverse than those enrolled in original Medicare. One study found that 65% of Black seniors and nearly 70% of Latino seniors choose Medicare Advantage over fee-for-service options.
It’s easy to see why. Medicare Advantage plans offer more comprehensive benefits, including built-in coverage for prescription drugs, dental, hearing, and vision care, often with little or no monthly premium. Dental is one of the most sought out benefits along with the Extra Benefit card, where seniors can purchase healthy foods or OTC (Over-the-Counter) items. These plans also provide flexibility, allowing seniors to adapt their benefits as their needs change.
The program emphasizes preventive care and includes innovative services that improve health outcomes and quality of life—such as meal delivery, in-home support, fitness benefits, and transportation to medical appointments.
Today, more than 34 million Americans are enrolled in Medicare Advantage, including nearly 540,000 in Louisiana. That’s more than half of our Medicare-eligible population. Keeping this program strong is critical as enrollment continues to grow.
Beyond its benefits to individuals, Medicare Advantage supports entire communities. Caregivers, families, providers, and local businesses all benefit when seniors are healthier and more active. Given the program’s impact, it’s disappointing that it hasn’t always received consistent support from lawmakers in Washington.
Under the previous administration, Medicare Advantage faced years of cuts from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), which threatened to weaken benefits and raise premiums. Fortunately, the most recent CMS rate update includes a payment increase of just over 5% for 2026—the first meaningful step forward in years, and a sign that the Trump Administration appreciates the value that this program delivers every day.
This progress is welcome, but more must be done to reverse previous cuts and protect the program for the future. We urge Senator Bill Cassidy and House Speaker Mike Johnson to continue advocating for Louisiana’s seniors and work to strengthen Medicare Advantage for the long term.
Donna G. Ricard, MSW has worked throughout Louisiana for more than 15 years
educating and registering seniors in Medicare programs through public, private and church-affiliated centers that assist older men and women. She and her family currently reside in Baton Rouge.
