Testimonials

One of my favorite expressions in life is, “It takes a Village,” and I cannot thank the Fishing Partnership Health Plan enough for being part of our “village.” As we know, health coverage in Massachusetts has become mandatory, but as we also know it is neither affordable nor easily accessible to members of our fishing community.  My husband and I have been covered under my business, which had to close due to structural inadequacies in the building where I leased by business.  We were then faced with paying $1,200 a month for the two of us to continue with our health coverage on our own.  Your postcard came at just he right time!  Although I had heard about the Fishing Partnership Health Plan over the past 10 years, I did not look into the plan since we were “all set in that department.”  How fast things can change in like and how grateful we are that we were able to obtain high-quality, affordable health care coverage.  Thank you for your relentless pursuit on behalf of all fishermen and a special thank you from us for accepting us into your plan.

Lee Y., Newbury

In all respects, the Fishing Partnership Health Plan has been there when I needed it.  I hope it continues to assist fishing families for many years to come.

Mary M., South Wellfleet

Being a shell fisherman, my work is very volatile, and unlike employees of companies, security and access to quality benefits are non-existent to me.  Having this quality option for my wife, who is also independently employed, it is a great blessing and relief to us to be covered.  We are truly thankful to all who made this possible.  This makes a real difference in two lives.

Scott L., Ipswich

It is good to know that the Fishing Partnership Health Plan is there to help me if I need it.

Victor L., Fairhaven

Let me start by saying the FPHP allows my wife and me to obtain health insurance much more affordably than other options.  Additionally, the care we receive is the best.  My wife has been a surgical nurse in Boston for over 30 years and knows this to be true.  Further, there never seem to be administrative issues.  The surgeries I’ve had the past few years have turned out fine, and while I’ll never be 100%, I’m extremely grateful to the FPHP for all it’s done.

Peter H.

My wife and I cannot tell you how pleased we are with the FPHP.  The FPHP has always provided us with excellent coverage and dedicated professionalism by the staff.  Every instance we called, the FPHP gave clear, no-nonsense answers.  Without the FPHP, my wife and I would be at gigantic financial hardship.  Before FPHP, we had Blue Cross/Blue Shield.  The premiums were astronomical.  Thank you FPHP for being there and easing the medical coverage payments.  These monthly payments are nothing compared to Blue Cross/Blue Shield.  Please stay on the excellent course you are steering.

Jack and Sandy K., Chatham

As I write this I am getting ready for a rotator-cuff surgery.  This is a problem that persists  in this industry.  Without FPHP I would not be able to afford health insurance, and would not be able to have this surgery.  That would be the end of my fishing career.  It is a comfort to have FPHP in case my family has a health issue.  They have been there for me and my family whenever needed, especially well check-ups and routine health visits.  Thanks so much.

Gary M. & Family, Little Compton RI

Ted and I have been helped immeasurably by the FPHP several times.  It has made a huge difference in our quality of life.  Thank you to the Partnership and all its supports.

Marie &  Theodor L., South Chatham

We have been a member since day one.  Without this coverage it would be a financial hardship to look for another health plan or at worst have no health insurance at all.  We have had no problems with the coverage and are very well satisfied with the program.  It gives us peace of mind to have this great coverage at an affordable price.  Again, thank you.

Ray & Jean K., Norwich CT

The Fishing Partnership Health Plan meant the end of this family going years without any health insurance and the beginning of being covered by affordable, quality health insurance that has already been there when we have needed it.  We are a family that doesn’t go to the doctor for frivolous matters.  My wife recently compared the Fishing Partnership Health Plan’s rates with those of other major carriers, and your’s were dramatically cheaper for similar coverage.  We can’t thank the Partnership enough for offering this coverage.

Peter P., Gloucester

Paul (our son) is slightly retarded.  This insurance has been such a relief to us.

Marie K., Manomet

It is with great pleasure and gratitude that I write to congratulate you on the ten-year anniversary of the Fishing Partnership Health Plan.  Without the Fishing Partnership we would not have been able to afford health insurance, along with the stellar service we have had over the last five-plus years since we joined.  I can personally attest to having the best of healthcare for a torn rotator cuff and surgical repair and the best doctors to keep my asthma and allergies in control and for the asthma flairs that occur less often now.  I have peace of mind knowing I am with the Fishing Partnership Health Plan even after my husband turned 65 this year.  Peace of mind is PRICELESS.  Thank you so very much for all you do.  You make a tremendous difference in my life!

Barbara R., Scituate

The FPHP is the best thing that ever happened to the fishermen.  It has been helping me a lot with my doctor’s bills.  If I didn’t have it, I wouldn’t know what to do, because the fishing industry is very tough right now.  Keep up the good work.

Antone S., New Bedford

I would like to take this time and let you know what a difference the FPHP has made in our lives as a family of five.  As you know, having three  children that need things and the expenses associated with housing them, clothing them, feeding the, etc., can be very expensive.  It is nice to know that we save money with this insurance plan.  Two of my children have asthma and need medication for their illness.  This has helped us knowing that there is an affordable plan out there to help us financially.  This is peace of mind, knowing if any of us fall ill that we will be taken care of.  Thank you for helping families in need.

Mr. & Mrs. Antonio S., Gloucester

Don’t know what we would have done without FPHP.  It has been very helpful in many ways.  The staff was always helpful.  We are very concerned about what we’ll do when I retire and am no longer eligible for the plan, because as you know, Medicare does not cover everything.

Mr. & Mrs. M., New Bedford

I am writing this letter to the FPHP people to tell you it has made a big difference in our lives.  It has saved us a great deal.  My wife has been very sick: she has had several surgeries in the past four years.  Without it I don’t know what we would have done.  It is in great need that the FPHP keeps going.

Dinh & Loretta N., Fairhaven

This is just a note of thanks to let you know that your health plan safety net works as it is supposed to work.  We have been members from the beginning.  In February 2004, my wife required a shoulder operation.  Before it was healed, she severely injured her back.  In January 2005, I severely injured my leg in a fall.  The costs of care were substantial and ongoing even two years later; yet our healthcare plan has been there all the way.  This has been a bad stretch for us but it could have been worse if not for the Fishing Partnership Health Plan.  Over the years you have asked on a number of occasions (usually when funding was in jeopardy) to write the governor and other elected representatives.  We did so and even received answers from some.  It is more satisfying to let you know that your effort is appreciated and the system works.  Such situations are why insurance was invented.

Jim and Joyce O., Chatham

As the wife of a commercial lobsterman and mother, I just wanted to write to tell you what the FPHP has meant to our family.  Without it we would not have been able to afford the health care we have received over the few years that we have been members.  More importantly, we would likely not have sought out medical care, and would have suffered through as we did for many years, with flu, work-related infections from fishing, and forgone the needed check-ups that have been recommended for people our age.  We never would have been able to have the tests required to detect colon cancer, which runs in my family, or eye tests, or even regular check-ups.  The plan has made a huge difference in how we view our overall health as a priority in our lives, and has, I believe contributed to our wellness.  Early detection of that which could have led to colon cancer and breast cancer has meant we have peace of mind, and a family in good health.  Besides regular check-ups, and medical care when sick or injured, the plan has allowed us to receive medicine when needed.  You may not know this but it was common practice among fishermen to share expensive antibiotic prescriptions like Keflex when infections from fishing injuries occurred.  Of course that meant most of the fishermen weren’t completing their full prescriptions, because they were used sparingly, knowing there would be a need in the future.  The FPHP, established with the help of Senator Edward Kennedy, has contributed greatly not only to the continued good health of my family, but also to the overall health of many in the fishing community.  Nobody should have to worry about the cost of antibiotics to save a finger or a hand, and nobody should have to worry about immunizations for their children, or cancer screening to potentially save their lives.  Please pass on my sincere thanks to those who worked so hard to develop the plan for us, and to those who fought to implement it and keep it viable.  Without it we would be lost.

Janice and Wayne N., Kingston

Thank you for your excellent health care; it’s greatly improved my life and helped me to be a productive aquaculture shellfisherman.

John N., Eastham

Good work.  A lot of us fishermen and families would be without health care if it were not for you guys.  Keep up the good work.

Tom M., Hingham

I am very grateful for this health insurance!  I had none before it.

Daniel F., North Dartmouth

Thank you for coming up with this great health insurance plan.  It is been a life- saver; its affordable also.  Happy Anniversary;  I hope I can keep it and nothing happens that I cannot fish.

Theresa S., Beverly

The Fishing Partnership Health Plan has been one of the few positives in the life of a fishing family,  Otherwise, these past ten years have been one blow followed by two more, etc.  We thank the Partnership people and our beloved Sen. Kennedy for this gift of affordable health insurance.

Russ S., Gloucester

Congratulations on your 10th year!  Without the Fishing Partnership my family could never afford health insurance.  Having four active children, it has saved us a considerable amount on our health visits.  Please keep up your hard work.  We truly appreciate everything you’ve done.

Christopher & Carolyn M., Hull

In our industry we never know what’s going to happen, income-wise, from year to year.  Having insurance coverage based on our income is unbelievable.  We would be, without a doubt, extremely hard passed trying to keep things together.  Fuel prices, bait prices and other maintenance items have impacted all fisherman, with many moving to other jobs.  Our insurance program is helping more than anyone can imagine.  Please keep it going.  It makes a difference.

Peter M., Hull

The Harrington Family has been enrolled in the FPHP for many years, and knowing that coverage is there if and when we need it brings peace of mind.  That means a lot.  Thanks for the service.

Jim H., South Orleans

The Fishing Partnership Health Plan has good quality health insurance at an affordable price.

Marty, Kingston

 As a member of the Fishing Partnership Health Plan since its inception, I’ve felt the benefits in many ways besides the fact it provides health insurance at a discount to similar plans for self-employed people like myself.  I also feel a benefit to my well-being, in both a physical and mental sense, by giving me peace of mind in knowing I have a good insurance plan. Furthermore, I feel a sense of unity with other fishermen, in joining an organization and insurance plan with other members of the fishing industry.  Thank you for your help.

Kenneth K., Nantucket

The Fishing Partnership Health Plan has been a life-saver for me! Affordable premiums with excellent health care.  When the plan started in 1997, I was diagnosed with a genetic disease which resulted, as it was undiagnosed previously, in the loss of my pancreas.  My medical care and prescriptions have been high.  I am thankful for this wonderful plan, which has allowed me to keep working.

Richard B., South Wellfleet

As a charter member of FPHP, I can happily say that your group has had a very positive effect on my health and my quality of life.  Several times I have been helped in my health concerns.  Quality care, full coverage, and concerned personnel have helped me through some real situations.  Thank you. Thank you.  Thank you.

Robert C., Provincetown

I am so grateful for you guys.  In the year I applied for FPHP, I was diagnosed with prostate cancer I had not been accepted into the FPHP as of yet and was left to deal with the uninsured, as the doctors recommended surgery ASAP.  Everything was paid out of pocket and was financially crippling.  My health, and the insurance that you provide are the most important things in my life.  Thankfully I wont ever have to experience something like that again.

Craig D., North Dartmouth

Just a little note to let you know how grateful we are that you provide us with affordable health insurance.  With all the adversities we encounter, (for example: laws, regulations, high fuel cost, to name a few), it is so nice to have someone in our corner willing the help fisherman survive.  So thank you FPHP for looking out for us hard working, self-employed fisherman who are just trying to support our families.

Alan D., Westport

It is with sincere enthusiasm that I write this quick note.  I have been enrolled with the Plan since the beginning.  In this day and age of conflicting health care issues, it is, indeed, an honor to be a participant in a program as comprehensive as FFPH.  As every working American now knows, health care cannot be compromised.  Not only does FPHP provide affordable and desirable health care, it also provides “peace of mind,” which is priceless.  Because of the security that FPHP provides I have been able to see my own fishery business stabilize and grow.  Over the past ten years I have also gained a tremendous respect for my own well-being.  I have found myself taking better care of myself, both physically and mentally.  The services provided by Fishing Partnership Health Plan are so very appreciated on every level.  From physician care to prescriptions to simply having questions answered by your always attentive and kind staff, I am forever grateful.

R. Andrew C., South Wellfleet

I would just like to express my gratitude for all the services that the FPHP offers my family.  We are very appreciative of the reasonable monthly fee and the kindness of everyone associated with the program.  It is especially nice that we are able to choose our own doctors and are not required to get bothersome referrals whenever the need to see a doctor arises.  We hope the FPHP has continued support throughout the fishing community.

Janice C., Fairhaven

Yes, the FPHP has been an affordable and available insurance plan for my spouse and I.  It has saved us money to date.  We truly appreciate that this insurance is offered to our fisherman and their families.  We hope it is feasible to continue.

Jennifer & Donald B., Edgartown

I want you to know how much the FPHP means to us.  We needed health insurance badly and you provided it through every surgery and recovery.  My husband is alive today because of the Fishing Partnership Health Plan.  Congratulations on your tenth anniversary.

Gloria B., Chilmark

It’s a good feeling that I don’t have to wait for a health problem to get severe before seeing a doctor.  Prevention and timely doctor’s visits are so important.  Although the premiums are a little high during a down time in fishing, it’s affordable compared to most outside plans, and the comprehensive coverage is excellent.  I truly appreciate being able to participate.

Ken E., Chatham

If it wasn’t for this program I would not have chosen insurance on my own.  I have been lobster fishing for 30 years with my own incorporated business.  The last five years have been very tough but, thanks to this program, I know if I hurt myself or don’t feel well, I will have good care at a cheaper cost to me.  This is a great program, the only one I know that Massachusetts has to offer self-employed fisherman.  Thanks.

David D., Mattapoiset

The Fishing Partnership Health Plan has had a major impact on my life.  In these uncertain times in the fishing industry, being able to count on health insurance for my family, at affordable rates, is a great relief.  I want to thank all who were involved in putting this program together.  Your efforts are much appreciated.

Edward D., Marblehead

My family and I are indeed thankful that the Fishing Partnership Health Plan was created, and congratulate you all on your tenth year of service.  As we all know, health insurance has become prohibitively expensive, and I am not sure how we would be able to afford it, were it not for the help of the Fishing Partnership.  While we are fortunate not to have incurred any major medical expenses, the coverage keeps us up to date on our check-ups and preventive care.  Thank you again for assisting those of us in this sometimes unpredictable fishing industry.  Keep up the great work!

David W., Cotuit

I am writing this to thank who ever is responsible for this wonderful program.  The Fishing Partnership Health Plan is a wonderful benefit for us and it is just so important to know we have a health insurance plan that we can afford.  It provides us with the routine care the everyone needs each year, as well as prescriptions that are necessary.  We are very grateful this FPHP has been a success and just hope that you get to celebrate many more years of success.  Thank You! I just don’t know what sort of coverage we could afford if this was not available.

“A Grateful Participant”

Just come thoughts about having the Fishing Partnership Health Plan.  Our family of six became members in December 1997.  I can’t express to you how comforting it is to know that great health care is available to commercial fishing families.  Previous to having FPHP, we belonged to the insurance provided by the Massachusetts Lobstermen’s Association. In the 1980s we were part of the defaulted program that left us holding thousands of dollars in unpaid claims.  I had just had out fourth child and none of those bills were ever paid.  I had reservations about joining another program, but to my surprise the Fishing Partnership Health Plan was everything and more.  These past 10 years I have not worried at all about going to the doctor for routine physicals or getting stitches for one of my four children in the emergency room.  Before we had this program, we would have to decide if we should get treatment, and then how were we going to pay the bill.  Having reliable health care insurance makes us all healthier.  We all keep up with our physicals and routine tests; mammograms, etc.; before this program we would wait until it was a big problem before going to the doctor.  Now we all have peace of mind, thanks to this program.  Thanks to all who make this program possible.

Peggy & Rob W., Buzzards Bay

Congratulations!  On your 10th Anniversary. Although I’ve been quite healthy lately it’s a nice feeling knowing that you are there for me if and when the day comes that I need you (FPHP).  Fishing has been worse than tough to make any kind of progress in, between the cost of fuel, dwindling fish stocks, etc.  Anything discounted nowadays is greatly appreciated.  I do have a couple of questions since I have your attention: 1. What happens when I retire? 2. Fees have gone up every year, is this going to continue?  Thank you for your letters; its nice to know there is someone out there that cares about fisherman.  It’s really sad what has happened.  We went from the richest ocean in the world to total mismanagement of our fisheries.  There was a time that it was just the weather.  Now we worry if there will be any fish when set out.  Before, this was never a concern.

Al W., Harwich

My husband and I would like to congratulate everyone at the Fishing Partnership Health Plan (FPHP) on your tenth anniversary.  We want you to know how delighted and most of all grateful we are that the FPHP even exists.  We are certain that the level of quality care we now receive would not be available to us without you.  We would never be able to afford a plan that provides the benefits of the FPHP.  Unfortunately, in the past few years, I have had several emergencies (none life-threatening, thank goodness) that required medical care that was provided to me with never having to worry about how we were going to pay for it.  More importantly, having three women in my family with breast cancer, having the access to preventive tests and checkups has brought peace of mind beyond measure.  We want you to know that the FPHP has had such a positive impact on our lives, so “Thank You and Happy Anniversary!”  We wish good health to you, your staff and your families.

Elizabeth and Robert S., Scituate

I thank you very much. I’m 60 years old.  If not for the Fishing Partnership Health Plan,  I wouldn’t have any insurance and would be on Mass Health or have no insurance.   You make it possible to have low-cost insurance and good insurance at a cost that I can afford.  Thank you very much.

Bruce T., New Bedford

The FPHP is the only reason I have been able to afford quality health insurance for the past 10 years.

Unreadable Name

It was tough to keep up with the payments of other less quality health plans for me and my wife.  Fishing Partnership Health Plan has giving us a quality health insurance at an affordable price.  Its tough to make ends meet commercial fishing.  The FPHP ia a light on a cloudy, unknown future in fishing.  Thank you very much.

Timothy S., North Truro

The Fishing Partnership Health Plan has been great for our family of five, and now four,  (our oldest 22 year old now has his own insurance).  The FPHP equals great rates plus great insurance.

Roger Carroll and Family, Chatham