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The news stories never stop. Medical insurance costs are skyrocketing. Nationwide, seniors with Medicare Advantage plans are losing coverage. Parts of the country have become healthcare deserts — no insurance, no physicians.
HMSA sent certified letters to Medicare Advantage customers telling them that certain plans will not be offered in 2027. It leaves members hanging. Enrollment begins today, but members have not received further details, including what drugs will be covered.
The final nail in the coffin is in sight: the approval of the integration of HMSA and Hawaii Pacific Health. Both companies are acting as if it is a done deal. This merger must be stopped. If approved, it will reduce competition, raise costs and narrow competition to care for all in Hawaii, as has happened repeatedly on the mainland.
Lynne Matusow
Downtown Honolulu
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