More than 20 years ago, I founded Primary Care One to ensure West Virginians could access high-quality, affordable primary health care. Our patients receive unlimited physician visits, X-rays, physical exams, lab tests, minor urgent care, and essential medications at four clinics.

Our mission is to connect patients with essential health care where it’s needed most while also providing financial stability. Few products in the healthcare space can match that level of affordability and certainty, but Medicare Advantage stands out as an option for those on Medicare that delivers quality, coordinated care and wrap-around services for tens of millions of seniors and patients with disabilities.

Like our model, Medicare Advantage beneficiaries pay one low monthly premium for comprehensive care, avoiding multiple premiums for services not covered by traditional Medicare — such as vision, dental, hearing, and fitness benefits. With average monthly premiums projected to drop to $17 this year and nearly 60% of beneficiaries gaining access to no-premium plans, Medicare Advantage is more affordable than ever.

Beyond affordability, Medicare Advantage keeps beneficiaries healthier. Its strong focus on preventive care leads to higher rates of provider visits, screenings, and vaccinations compared to traditional Medicare. Studies confirm that Medicare Advantage enrollees are more likely to receive annual wellness visits and preventive services, allowing them to identify and manage health concerns earlier, improving long-term health outcomes.

Most Medicare Advantage plans also emphasize care coordination across multiple providers, typically starting with a designated primary care physician. This integrated approach ensures that doctors, specialists, and other health professionals communicate efficiently, reducing gaps in care and delivering better health results for patients.

With its broad benefits, integrated care, and cost-saving features — including lower premiums and annual caps on out-of-pocket expenses — Medicare Advantage remains a quality choice for seniors and those with disabilities. Today, more than 34 million Americans–over half of all Medicare-eligible individuals–are enrolled in the program, relying on it for quality, affordable care. In West Virginia, 54% of all Medicare-eligible seniors are enrolled in Medicare Advantage.

Polling before last year’s elections confirmed just how much beneficiaries value Medicare Advantage. More than 80% believe the government should increase program funding, and 86% said they would be less likely to support a lawmaker who backed funding cuts. These numbers show that Medicare Advantage isn’t just popular — it’s essential.

Seniors have made their voices clear, and now it’s time for lawmakers to listen. Despite Medicare Advantage’s critical role, the program faced repeated funding cuts under the previous administration. Fortunately, the outgoing Biden administration’s final advance rate notice for 2026 called for a payment increase instead of another cut. While that increase is a positive step, it does not fully reverse years of reductions.

With a new Congress in place and the Trump administration taking shape, lawmakers must act. Republican majorities have a real opportunity to ensure full funding for Medicare Advantage in 2026 and beyond, building on the support that our delegation – including and especially Senator Capito – have shown for the program over the last few years. Millions of vulnerable Americans rely on this program for access to quality, affordable health care, and it’s up to policymakers to protect it for years to come.

(Dr. Vic Wood is an osteopathic physician from Wheeling and operates Primary Care One.)