While many members of Congress are indeed signing up for health coverage through the District of Columbia exchange — which was designated as the provider for all members — their experiences have been significantly better than those of average consumers in several respects, including more generous benefits packages, VIP customer service from insurers and the same government-subsidized premiums they’ve always enjoyed.

It’s a far cry from the experience of millions of other Americans, who have been frustrated by a crash-prone federal website, policy cancellations and confusion over the new program.

Some lawmakers are avoiding President Obama’s healthcare law altogether by getting their health benefits elsewhere. Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) qualifies for coverage as a veteran. Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) gets insurance under her husband’s plan.

More than a third of senators, and a quarter of House members, are 65 or older, making them eligible for Medicare.