Today marks 10 years since the passage of the Affordable Care Act.
Physicians for Reproductive Health Board Member Dr. Bhavik Kumar issued the following statement in response:
“As our country faces this serious pandemic, I am more aware than ever how critical it is that all people have access to comprehensive, affordable health care coverage. Ten years ago today, access to health care in the United States was made a priority by the passage of the Affordable Care Act. It is still groundbreaking for access to reproductive health care, care for those with pre-existing conditions, people with low income, LGBTQIA people, young people, and people of color.
…we need more coverage and more access, not less.
“In spite of its benefits of better health outcomes, peace of mind, and financial security, the Trump administration has made it a priority to dismantle the Affordable Care Act in any way they can. This is an embarrassment especially as we see so clearly over the course of the coronavirus outbreak, we need more coverage and more access, not less.
“Twenty million people across this country are enrolled in the Affordable Care Act. It has provided historic levels of access especially for women’s health—they no longer have to pay more money for their coverage because of their gender. Without this coverage, comprehensive reproductive health care would be out of reach for millions of women, especially women with low income.
We must continue advocating for comprehensive health care coverage.
“Our families and communities should be able to focus on keeping safe and healthy in challenging moments like this one, not worried if they’ll be able to afford their medical expenses. We must continue advocating for comprehensive health care coverage.”