One of the most vexing problems I have faced in the past few years are issues arising from the failure of insurers to meet my needs. It seems like the insurance companies are putting profits before people; it's taking a devastating toll on the health of all people, but especially seniors and the disabled. 

I happen to be both. For the past three years I have hit the "doughnut hole" in Feb. or March because of the expensive medications I need. I've had to pay close to $5,000 before Medicare's "catastrophic care" finally kicks in again, around May. This means I have a "catastrophe" each year, financially speaking.

And I know first hand how hard it is when the company to which I pay hefty premiums on top of my Medicare premiums, denies a claim for a procedure or medication that I require to stay healthy, and which my physician has prescribed. Claim denials are all too common, even when the policy clearly states something is covered.

Real reform is needed - not scare tactics or lip-syncing the insurance companies. Let our legislators put some real teeth into the bills they are working on. This is one senior who is absolutely in favor of a complete overhaul of the system.

The proposals don't go far enough. I hope our congressional representatives have the guts to face down the big companies and do what's right for America - including the uninsured, the kids, the disabled, and yes, we seniors too.

Nancy Boyd

Ossining