CARING ABOUT THE HEALTH OF THOSE IN NEED INVOLVES EVERYONE

Our faith teaches us to care for the vulnerable and to help our neighbors build lives of dignity, independence, and hope. As the founder of Ransom Ministries, I have seen what happens when people are given not just charity, but opportunity - especially when it comes to their health.

In our work, we regularly support individuals and families who are struggling to access basic healthcare. Most people don't want handouts. They want the tools to care for themselves, stay

healthy, and remain independent. For many seniors, Medicare Advantage provides exactly that - affordable access to doctors, prescription medications, preventive care, and wellness programs that help them live healthier, fuller lives.

When Medicare Advantage is properly funded, seniors can receive routine checkups, manage chronic illnesses, and catch serious conditions early. They can afford lifesaving medications. They can participate in fitness, nutrition, and social programs that protect both physical and mental health.

These services reduce emergency room visits, prevent unnecessary hospitalizations, and allow older adults to remain active in their homes and communities.

But if funding is reduced, those protections are at risk. Seniors could face higher costs, reduced benefits, and fewer choices - forcing many to delay care or go without essential medications. That leads to poorer health outcomes, higher long-term costs, and needless suffering.

Every week, I meet seniors who worry about whether they will be able to afford care in the years ahead. After a lifetime of work, they deserve security, not uncertainty. They are facing increased uncertainty after the Trump Administration announced a very low budget for Medicare Advantage that would ultimately force seniors to pay higher monthly premiums and leave them with fewer benefit options.

For the health, independence, and dignity of our seniors, I am hopeful the President and Alabama's Congressional delegation will work to ensure that Medicare Advantage is protected and fully funded next year. It is both a moral responsibility and a practical necessity.

Matt Armbruster is the founder of Ransom Ministries in Mobile, Alabama.

Opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Alabama Gazette staff or publishers.