News

This week, we spotlight state and local-level action to promote equity, global engagement to reduce inequities in care, and new national research that underscores the urgency of these issues. Protect Our Care is committed to making health care a right for every American. 

Addressing systemic racial, ethnic, and other inequities in health care is among the most pressing issues in America. The causes of these inequities, and the corresponding actions needed to tackle them head on, are multi-faceted. As it stands, marginalized communities, including people of color, rural Americans, LGBTQ+ people, and people with disabilities, face worse access to quality, affordable health coverage, which contributes to dangerous health outcomes.

INITIATIVES

Noozhawk: New California Program to Help Promote Better Health Outcomes for LGBTQ+ Individuals. “More than 2.5 million Californian women identify as lesbian, bisexual, transgender and/or queer (LBTQ+), with a growing group of people identifying as nonbinary. However, that roughly 6% share of the population — which includes and intersects with some of the state’s most vulnerable communities — has historically been overlooked by healthcare programs. A new $17.5 million state-funded program will support a first step towards equitable access to health care for LBTQ+ women and nonbinary Californians. The California Department of Public Health’s (CDPH) LBTQ Health Equity Initiative provides a sizeable economic infusion for health services specifically aimed at this population. While prioritizing LBTQ+ women and nonbinary people, the initiative further emphasizes the intersections of historically excluded groups — where inequity is generally exacerbated — including increased aid to youth, the elderly and BIPOC communities. Funding is earmarked for four project areas: healthcare access demonstration, community education and outreach, service provider capacity building and LBTQ+ research.” [Noozhawk, 12/28/22]

The New England Journal of Medicine: The Success of Groups Using the Anchor Strategy to Promote Equity. “An anchor strategy is a place-based business approach to building community health and wealth by means of local hiring, investing, purchasing, and community engagement. In 2016, Rush University System for Health, an academic health system in Chicago, adopted an anchor strategy to tackle the 16-year life-expectancy gap between Chicago’s West Side and the Loop. In 2018, Rush was joined by 5 other health systems — AMITA (now Ascension) Health, Cook County Health, Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Sinai Chicago, and University of Illinois Health — to establish West Side United (WSU), a racial-equity collaborative aligning investments in economic development, education, health care, and the built environment to benefit Chicago’s 500,000 West Side residents. The combined assets of these health care anchors are larger than those of any Illinois corporation and create potential for major collective impact. Since 2018, WSU members and the American Medical Association have invested $10.8 million through community development financial institutions to finance businesses, nonprofits, and affordable housing; raised $3 million to establish four health care career pathways; launched interventions targeting hypertension and maternal and infant outcomes in West Side hospitals, clinics, and community-based organizations; hired more than 2000 West Side employees; and raised $1.9 million to support local businesses. WSU’s small business accelerator offers business-development support to 150 West Side businesses and 60 community-based organizations.” [The New England Journal of Medicine, 1/7/23]

Regulatory Affairs Professionals Society: Enhancing Diversity in Clinical Trials Can Reduce Inequities in Care. “Historically, many clinical trials have not been representative of the patients most likely to use a medical product upon its approval. There is frequent underrepresentation of people from diverse groups defined by factors such as race, ethnicity, sex, gender identity, age, socioeconomic status, disability, pregnancy status, lactation status, and comorbidity. The lack of diversity in trial participation has created gaps in the understanding of treatment safety and effectiveness across the different populations. Solving the issue cannot be achieved by one organization or stakeholder group. It will require the involvement and participation of the entire medical product development ecosystem. The collaborative discussion at the 2022 RAPS Convergence among FDA, Health Canada, and industry is one such endeavor of many toward this effort. The meeting resulted in greater understanding and appreciation of perspectives. It also revealed that, while stakeholders have different roles and responsibilities, their common goal is achieving health equity for all.” [RAPS, 12/31/22]

CHALLENGES

USA Today: People of Color Are Dying of COVID-19 At Much Higher Rates Than Data Suggests. “It’s not always easy to identify a COVID-19 death. If someone dies at home, if they have symptoms not typically associated with the disease or if they die when local health  systems are overwhelmed, their death certificate might say “heart disease” or “natural causes” when COVID-19 is, in fact, at fault. New research shows such inaccuracies also are more likely for Americans who are Black, Hispanic, Asian or Native. The true toll of the COVID-19 pandemic on many communities of color – from Portland, Oregon, to Navajo Nation tribal lands in Arizona, New Mexico and Utah, to sparsely populated rural Texas towns – is worse than previously known. In Arizona’s Navajo and Apache counties, which share territory with Navajo Nation, COVID deaths among Native Americans drove nation-leading excess death rates in 2020 and 2021. In Portland, deaths from causes indirectly related to the pandemic went up in 2021 even as official COVID deaths remained relatively constant. Black residents were disproportionately impacted by some of these causes, such as heart disease and overdose deaths – despite a county-wide commitment to addressing racism as a public health threat. In Texas, smaller, rural counties served by Justices of the Peace were more likely to report potential undercounting of COVID deaths than larger, urban counties served by medical examiners. Experts point to several reasons for increased inaccurate death certificates among non-white Americans. These include resources available for death investigations, the use of general or unknown causes on death certificates, and how the race and ethnicity fields of these certificates are filled out.

Such barriers to accurate death reporting add on to existing health disparities that made non-white Americans more susceptible to COVID in 2021, despite widespread vaccination campaigns and health equity efforts.” [USA Today, 12/28/22]

Axios: Medical Debt is a Primary Driver of Health Care Inequities. “Black medical trainees were far more likely to carry a heavier debt burden than their peers in other racial and ethnic groups, a study published… in Health Affairs found. Led by the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, researchers examined the association between race and debt among roughly 121,000 medical residents between 2014 and 2019. The study found trainees from nearly all underrepresented populations in medicine, including American Indian/Alaska Natives, Hispanics and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islanders, were generally more likely to have debt compared to white and Asian trainees. Specifically, they found Black trainees were most likely to suffer a debt burden, with 96% reporting some type of debt including premedical education loans, medical education loans and consumer debt, not including mortgages, compared to 83% of trainees overall. 50% of Black trainees had some type of consumer debt, not including mortgages, compared to 25% overall.” [Axios, 1/10/23]

Patient Management HIT: Digital Health Literacy a Driving Factor in Disparities of Care. “New data is shedding light on the digital divide in healthcare, with researchers from The Ohio State University revealing that it’s not just broadband access stymying connectivity for marginalized groups. Rather, digital health literacy and language access will be necessary to support digital health equity. Access to digital health tools has become increasingly important in a modernized medical landscape, with the advent of digital health records, patient portals, and connected health changing the way consumers engage with their health. Looking at a Bhutanese refugee community near Columbus, Ohio, [OSU] researchers were able to zero in on the challenges faced by a traditionally underserved group exposed to numerous social determinants of health. Although this group was very low-income, with an average annual income at $35,000, nearly all had access to the internet (94.5 percent). Even still, folks included in the observational study weren’t utilizing online resources, indicating to researchers that it’s not access to hardware or broadband that’s driving the digital divide in healthcare. Language barriers, for example, were particularly onerous for study participants. Eight in 10 said they used the internet to communicate with family and friends and 68 percent utilized social media, but the internet was virtually useless for digital health engagement. Three-quarters of study participants said they never used the internet to access telehealth, despite having predispositions for certain chronic illnesses like cardiovascular disease and diabetes.” [Patient Management HIT, 1/6/23]

They All Voted Against the American Rescue Plan, the Inflation Reduction Act, and the Affordable Care Act (Every Time They Could)

After the conclusion of a highly-contested Speaker vote, the House Republican Steering Committee is set to meet today to vote on chairs for key panels that are instrumental in protecting and improving American health care. All of the Republican leaders under consideration for chairs of these committees are completely out of step with the American people on health care. The GOP made clear on the campaign trail that their health care plan means it will be more expensive to go to the doctor and more expensive to get the drugs Americans rely on to stay healthy. Under Speaker Kevin McCarthy’s radical leadership, Republicans want to return to attacking people with pre-existing conditions, repealing the Affordable Care Act, slashing Medicare, and hiking drug and health insurance costs. Once again, we will see how a Republican majority means playing politics with people’s lives in order to support Big Pharma and other special interests. 

Kevin McCarthy: Speaker of the House

Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) won the GOP nomination to become the next Speaker of the House.

• As Part Of His Corrupt Bargain To Become Speaker Of The House Kevin McCarthy Agreed To A Balanced Budget Over 10 Years Which Could Lead To Drastic Cuts And Changes To Medicare And Social Security.  As part of Kevin McCarthy’s concessions to conservatives to become Speaker of the House, he agreed that the House GOP will present a budget that balances over 10 years, capping discretionary spending at fiscal 2022 levels or lower. Although specific cuts have not been identified yet, such a budget could force catastrophic cuts and benefits changes to Social Security and Medicare. 
• Kevin McCarthy Is Open To Using Debt Limit Negotiations To Force Cuts To Medicare And Social Security. Kevin McCarthy told Punchbowl News that he would not “predetermine” whether Social Security and Medicare cuts would be part of debt-limit negotiations. Those comments suggested that, unlike in past negotiations, Republicans could demand future cuts to the programs in order to raise America’s borrowing limit and avoid a default on government debt. Mr. McCarthy later told CNBC that he had not brought up the programs and was committed to “strengthening” them, though he did not provide details.
• Kevin McCarthy Is A Relentless Foe Of The ACA And Efforts To Reduce Health Care Costs. Since taking office in 2007, Kevin McCarthy has been a relentless opponent of the Affordable Care Act, including voting against initial passage of the law, and serving in GOP House leadership during at least 60 attempts to repeal or substantially alter the law. McCarthy also led Republican efforts to try to block passage of the American Rescue Plan and the Inflation Reduction Act, which have lowered premiums and established a program to allow Medicare to negotiate lower prescription drug prices for seniors. 

Steve Scalise: Majority Leader

Steve Scalise (R-LA) will serve as Majority Leader in the Republican House. 

• Steve Scalise Led GOP Efforts To Repeal The ACA In 2017 And Now He’s A Cheerleader For The Push To Cut Medicare And Social Security. In 2017, Steve Scalise was the House Majority Whip during the frantic Republican attempt to repeal the Affordable Care Act and rip away health coverage and protections for pre-existing conditions for millions of Americans. Now, Scalise is defending GOP plans to cut Medicare and Social Security. Scalise claims that what Republicans have proposed is “strengthening” the programs, but he’s a member of the Republican Study Committee, which recently released a budget outlining plans to raise the Medicare eligibility age to 67 and convert the program to a “premium support” system where seniors received a subsidy they could use on private plans competing against traditional Medicare. 
• Steve Scalise Has Opposed The Affordable Care Act Since Its Inception. Since taking office in 2008, Steve Scalise has been a relentless opponent of the Affordable Care Act, including voting against initial passage of the law, voting for at least 60 attempts to repeal or substantially alter the law, including serving as GOP Whip during the failed repeal attempts during the Trump administration. Scalise also helped lead Republican efforts to try to block passage of the American Rescue Plan and the Inflation Reduction Act, which have lowered premiums and established a program to allow Medicare to negotiate lower prescription drug prices for seniors. 

Republican Conference Chair

Elise Stefanik was elected to a second term as Republican Conference Chair 

• Elise Stefanik Is A Donald Trump Loyalist Who Belongs To The Medicare-Slashing Republican Study Committee. Elise Stefanik was initially elected to the House in 2014 as a relatively moderate Republican, but in recent years she has transformed herself into an ultra-MAGA Donald Trump loyalist, who is often mentioned as a potential VP pick for Trump’s presidential run in 2024. Stefanik is also a member of the Republican Study Committee, which recently released a budget outlining plans to raise the Medicare eligibility age to 67 and convert the program to a “premium support” system where seniors received a subsidy they could use on private plans competing against traditional Medicare. 
• Elise Stefanik Has Voted Eight Times To Repeal The ACA And Opposes Allowing Medicare To Negotiate Lower Prescription Drug Prices. Since taking office in 2015, Stefanik has voted for at least eight attempts to repeal or substantially alter the Affordable Care Act. Stefanik claims that House Republicans will, “Lower healthcare costs through transparency, choice, and competition,” but she opposed the Inflation Reduction Act and the American Rescue Plan, which lower premiums for millions of Americans and give Medicare the power to negotiate lower drug prices for seniors. Stefanik has also peddled the false claim that Medicare drug price negotiation will harm national security or encourage drug manufacturers to “move to China.” 

Majority Whip

Tom Emmer (R-MN) defeated Jim Banks (R-IN) in the race to be Majority Whip 

• Tom Emmer Is A Member Of The Medicare-Slashing Republican Study Committee And The Point Person For Electing A Republican Anti-Health Care Majority. Tom Emmer is a member of the Republican Study Committee, which recently released a budget outlining plans to raise the Medicare eligibility age to 67 and convert the program to a “premium support” system where seniors received a subsidy they could use on private plans competing against traditional Medicare. Emmer is also the chairman of the NRCC, a position he used to push misleading claims to help elect an extremist GOP anti-health care majority. 
• Tom Emmer Has Has Voted Eight Times To Repeal The ACA And Opposes Allowing Medicare To Negotiate Lower Prescription Drug Prices. Since taking office in 2015, Emmer has voted for at least eight attempts to repeal or substantially alter the Affordable Care Act and he voted against the American Rescue Plan and the Inflation Reduction Act’s measures to lower premiums and allow Medicare to negotiate lower prescription drug prices. 

Budget Committee

Lloyd Smucker (R-PA) and Jodey Arrington (R-TX) are seen as the favorites to serve as Budget Committee chair in a Republican-controlled House. Buddy Carter (R-GA) has also expressed interest in the post. 

• Jodey Arrington Has Opposed The Affordable Care Act Since The Day He Got To Congress. Jodey Arrington’s official website still calls for the repeal of the Affordable Care Act, which he says is a “travesty” that has left America “sick.” Arrington’s first floor speech as a member of the House in 2017 was a jeremiad against the ACA and has never given up on destroying the law, blaming the Senate for hurting the Republican Party by failing to completely repeal during the Trump administration. Since taking office in 2017, Arrington has voted three times to repeal the Affordable Care Act and voted against the American Rescue Plan and the Inflation Reduction Act’s measures to lower premiums and allow Medicare to negotiate lower prescription drug prices. 
• Jodey Arrington Called For “Eligibility Reforms” To Medicare And Social Security. Arrington has expressed interest in holding the nation’s full faith and credit hostage to force cuts to Medicare and Social Security. Arrington told Bloomberg that a bipartisan negotiation on Social Security and Medicare would likely start with Democrats pushing for more revenue, while “Republicans have a list of eligibility reforms, and we don’t like the tax increases.” He has said that an increase in the eligibility age for both programs would be a commonsense change. Arrington is a member of the Republican Study Committee, which recently released a budget outlining plans to raise the Medicare eligibility age to 67 and convert the program to a “premium support” system where seniors received a subsidy they could use on private plans competing against traditional Medicare. 
• Lloyd Smucker Wants To Reduce Benefits For Medicare And Social Security Beneficiaries. Lloyd Smucker has also indicated that he wants to use negotiations over the debt ceiling to impose cuts to Social Security and Medicare. Smucker told Bloomberg that reducing benefits for wealthier Americans via “some sort of means-testing” is a good way to cut costs. Smucker is a member of the Republican Study Committee, which recently released a budget outlining plans to raise the Medicare eligibility age to 67 and convert the program to a “premium support” system where seniors received a subsidy they could use on private plans competing against traditional Medicare.
• Lloyd Smucker Has Voted To Repeal The Affordable Care Act And Opposed Measures To Lower Premiums And Drug Prices. Since taking office in 2017, Lloyd Smucker has voted three times to repeal the Affordable Care Act and voted against the American Rescue Plan and the Inflation Reduction Act’s measures to lower premiums and allow Medicare to negotiate lower prescription drug prices. 
• Buddy Carter’s Top Priority Is Repealing Medicare’s Ability To Negotiate Lower Prescription Drug Prices. Buddy Carter told Fox News in September that increasing prescription drug prices for millions of Americans will be one of his top priorities if Republicans control the House, stating that, “We’ve been asking that question not only about student debt loans, but also about a number of initiatives that have been instigated and put into place by the Biden administration, just like in the Inflation Acceleration Act that I mentioned before with the prescription drug pricing. That is something I’m very interested in as a pharmacist. I’ve been asking my colleagues, ‘How are we going to undo that when we get into the majority?’” Carter also remains a vehement opponent of the Affordable Care Act, insisting on his official website that, “Improving health care in America begins with repealing this disastrous law.” 
• Buddy Carter Wants “Everything On The Table” When It Comes To Social Security And Medicare Cuts. Buddy Carter has said that as chair of the Budget Committee, “Our main focus has got to be on nondiscretionary — it’s got to be on entitlements.” Carter went on to say that “everything is on the table” for Medicare and Social Security and that he plans to use the nation’s debt ceiling and the threat of catastrophic default to force changes to the programs. Carter is a member of the Republican Study Committee, whose recent budget outlined radical proposals like raising the Medicare eligibility age to 67 and converting Medicare to a “premium support” system where seniors received a subsidy they could use on private plans competing against traditional Medicare. Carter is a member of the Republican Study Committee, which recently released a budget outlining plans to raise the Medicare eligibility age to 67 and convert the program to a “premium support” system where seniors received a subsidy they could use on private plans competing against traditional Medicare.
• Buddy Carter Has Voted Eight Times To Repeal The Affordable Care Act And Opposed Measures To Lower Premiums And Drug Prices. Since taking office in 2017, Buddy Carter has voted eight times to repeal the Affordable Care Act and voted against the American Rescue Plan and the Inflation Reduction Act’s measures to lower premiums and allow Medicare to negotiate lower prescription drug prices. 

Education And Labor Committee

Virginia Foxx (R-NC) is seeking a waiver to circumvent term limit rules to serve as chair of the Education and Labor Committee. If she is unsuccessful, the gavel will most likely go to Tim Walburg (R-MI) 

• Virginia Foxx Is Still Committed To Repealing The Affordable Care Act And Opposed Allowing Medicare To Negotiate Lower Drug Prices For Seniors. Virginia Foxx’s official website still states that she remains “committed to replacing ObamaCare with patient-centered health care that works for the American people.” Since taking office in 2005, Virginia Foxx has been a relentless opponent of the Affordable Care Act and other efforts to expand health coverage and lower costs, including voting against initial passage of the law and voting for at least 60 attempts to repeal or substantially alter the ACA. Foxx has strongly opposed granting Medicaid the power to negotiate lower drug prices for seniors, voting against the Inflation Reduction Act and against 2019 prescription drug negotiation legislation, which she called a “socialized drug pricing scheme.” 
• Virginia Foxx Is A Member Of The Medicare-Slashing Republican Study Committee. Foxx is also a member of the Republican Study Committee, whose recent budget outlined radical proposals like raising the Medicare eligibility age to 67 and converting Medicare to a “premium support” system where seniors received a subsidy they could use on private plans competing against traditional Medicare
• Tim Walberg Has Voted Dozens Of Times To Repeal The ACA And Opposed Measures To Bring Down Costs And Allow Medicare To Negotiate Lower Drug Prices For Seniors. Since taking office in 2011, Tim Walberg has voted for at least 60 attempts to repeal the Affordable Care Act and voted against the American Rescue Plan and the Inflation Reduction Act’s measures to lower premiums and allow Medicare to negotiate lower prescription drug prices. 
• Tim Walberg Is A Member Of The Medicare-Slashing Republican Study Committee. Walberg is also a member of the Republican Study Committee, whose recent budget outlined radical proposals like raising the Medicare eligibility age to 67 and converting Medicare to a “premium support” system where seniors received a subsidy they could use on private plans competing against traditional Medicare

Energy And Commerce

Cathy McMorris-Rodgers (R-WA) is the most likely Chair of the Energy and Commerce Committee in a Republican House.

• Cathy McMorris Rodgers Voted Against Lowering Drug Prices For America’s Seniors And Promises Aggressive Oversight To Potentially Derail Prescription Drug Price Negotiations. Cathy McMorris Rodgers voted against the American Rescue Plan and the Inflation Reduction Act’s measures to lower premiums and allow Medicare to negotiate lower prescription drug prices. McMorris Rodgers has promised aggressive oversight of HHS drug price negotiations if she is Chair of Energy and Commerce in a potential effort to delay or derail the program. 
• Cathy McMorris Rodgers Has Voted Dozens Of Times To Repeal The Affordable Care Act. Since taking office in 2005, Cathy McMorris Rodgers has been a relentless opponent of the Affordable Care Act and other efforts to expand health coverage and lower costs, including voting against initial passage of the law and voting for at least 60 attempts to repeal or substantially alter the ACA. 
• Cathy McMorris Rodgers Is A Member Of The Medicare-Slashing Republican Study Committee. McMorris Rodgers is also a member of the Republican Study Committee, whose recent budget outlined radical proposals like raising the Medicare eligibility age to 67 and converting Medicare to a “premium support” system where seniors received a subsidy they could use on private plans competing against traditional Medicare

Ways And Means

Vern Buchanan (R-FL), Jason Smith (R-MO), and Adrian Smith (R-NE) are locked in a tight battle for the chairmanship of the House Ways and Means Committee. 

• Vern Buchanan Has Voted Dozens Of Times To Repeal The ACA And Opposed Measures To Bring Down Costs And Allow Medicare To Negotiate Lower Drug Prices For Seniors. Since taking office in 2007, Vern Buchanan has been a relentless opponent of the Affordable Care Act, including voting against initial passage of the law, voting for at least 60 attempts to repeal or substantially alter the law. Buchanan also voted against the American Rescue Plan and the Inflation Reduction Act’s measures to lower premiums and allow Medicare to negotiate lower prescription drug prices. 
• Vern Buchanan’s Priority For Ways And Means Would Be Extending Donald Trump’s Tax Cuts For The Wealthiest Americans. Vern Buchanan’s top priority on the Ways and Means Committee is making Donald Trump’s tax cuts for the wealthy permanent, a proposal that experts say will only worsen inflation. Buchanan is also a member of the Republican Study Committee, which recently released a budget outlining plans to raise the Medicare eligibility age to 67 and convert the program to a “premium support” system where seniors received a subsidy they could use on private plans competing against traditional Medicare. 
• Jason Smith Wants To Use The Debt Ceiling To Force Joe Biden To “Reverse” His Agenda. Smith told Axios in a phone interview he thinks Republicans should leverage debt limit negotiations to ‘reverse’ the administration’s ‘radical’ policies — including by sending a bill gutting the Democratic agenda to President Biden’s desk and daring him to reject it. ‘If Republicans are trying to cut spending, surely he wouldn’t try to default. If we were trying to bring down inflation … trying to secure our border, surely he wouldn’t default,’ Smith said. 
• Jason Smith Promised To Hold “A Lot Of Hearings” On Cuts To Medicare And Social Security. Asked about Republican plans to overhaul Social Security and Medicare, Jason Smith told Axios, “We’re going to have a lot of hearings on this. I’m not going to get into the inner details.” Smith is a member of the Republican Study Committee, which recently released a budget outlining plans to raise the Medicare eligibility age to 67 and convert the program to a “premium support” system where seniors received a subsidy they could use on private plans competing against traditional Medicare. 
• Jason Smith Has Voted More Than 20 Times To Repeal The ACA And Opposed Measures To Bring Down Costs And Allow Medicare To Negotiate Lower Drug Prices For Seniors. Since taking office in 2007, Jason Smith has been a relentless opponent of the Affordable Care Act, including voting against initial passage of the law, voting for at least 26 attempts to repeal or substantially alter the law. Smith also voted against the American Rescue Plan and the Inflation Reduction Act’s measures to lower premiums and allow Medicare to negotiate lower prescription drug prices. 
• Adrian Smith Wants To Use The Debt Ceiling To Force Spending Cuts. Adrian Smith told the Washington Post, “The debt ceiling is an important tool for addressing debt and deficit. After two years of irresponsible spending by Democrats driving historic inflation, American families can’t afford for us to not have a serious debate about government spending.” Smith is also a member of the Republican Study Committee, which recently released a budget outlining plans to raise the Medicare eligibility age to 67 and convert the program to a “premium support” system where seniors received a subsidy they could use on private plans competing against traditional Medicare.
• Adrian Smith Has Voted Dozens Of Times To Repeal The ACA And Opposed Measures To Bring Down Costs And Allow Medicare To Negotiate Lower Drug Prices For Seniors. Since taking office in 2007, Adrian Smith has been a relentless opponent of the Affordable Care Act, including voting against initial passage of the law, voting for at least 60 attempts to repeal or substantially alter the law. Smith also voted against the American Rescue Plan and the Inflation Reduction Act’s measures to lower premiums and allow Medicare to negotiate lower prescription drug prices. 

Oversight

James Comer (R-KY) is considered the Republican chairman-in-waiting of the Oversight Committee. 

• James Comer Will Use The Oversight Committee To Attack Science And The Nation’s Pandemic Response. James Comer has outlined an oversight agenda that includes attacks on the CDC and the nation’s pandemic response. Comer will use the committee’s resources to investigate the origins of the coronavirus and federal funds supporting research done at Wuhan Institute of Virology as well as pandemic-era guidance from the CDC that Comer calls “confusing.” Comer and other Republicans also plan to lay the blame for high drug prices on prescription drug middlemen known as pharmacy benefit managers in oversight hearings. 
• James Comer Has Voted To Repeal The Affordable Care Act And Opposed Measures To Lower Premiums And Drug Prices. Since taking office in 2017, James Comer has voted three times to repeal the Affordable Care Act and voted against the American Rescue Plan and the Inflation Reduction Act’s measures to lower premiums and allow Medicare to negotiate lower prescription drug prices. Comer is also a member of the Republican Study Committee, which recently released a budget outlining plans to raise the Medicare eligibility age to 67 and convert the program to a “premium support” system where seniors received a subsidy they could use on private plans competing against traditional Medicare.

President Biden and Democrats in Congress Delivered On Their Promises to Lower Health Care Costs, Reduce Drug Prices, and Improve Care for Families Nationwide

Washington DC —  Reflecting on two years full of health care wins means there’s a lot to celebrate. In 2020, voters went to the polls demanding lower health care costs, and now they are getting the relief they desperately need. President Biden and Democratic lawmakers have delivered the most expansive health care reform since passage of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). In 2021, Democrats passed the American Rescue Plan, which provided essential relief during the COVID-19 pandemic and delivered lower health care premiums to millions of families. This year, Democrats passed the Inflation Reduction Act to drive down drug prices and extend the premium savings under the American Rescue Plan. 

President Biden has also taken executive action to expand affordable coverage, stop surprise billing, strengthen maternal care, and reduce racial disparities in our health care system. As a result, ACA coverage is more affordable than ever before, and the uninsured rate is at an all-time low. This means millions more families have peace of mind knowing they can go to the doctor and get the care they need without fear of going bankrupt or forgoing other basic needs. President Biden and Democrats in Congress never stopped delivering on their promises to lower costs, improve care, and put the well-being of families first.

“As 2022 comes to a close, we should all celebrate the strides in making health care more affordable, accessible, and equitable for the American people,” said Protect Our Care Chair Leslie Dach. “In just two years, President Biden and Democrats in Congress have expanded affordable coverage, taken on Big Pharma to deliver lower prices to patients, and reduced stark disparities in our health care system. These steps will ensure millions of Americans live longer, healthier lives, and it has never been more clear that President Biden and Democrats will not give up the fights until every American has access to high-quality, affordable health care.”  

“The last two years have brought monumental changes to health care for the American people. After Republicans spent years trying to hike health care costs and rip coverage away, Americans are finally getting some relief,” said Protect Our Care Executive Director Brad Woodhouse. “President Biden and Democrats in Congress have prioritized the health and well-being of the American people — and the results are piling up. Health insurance is more affordable than ever, millions of families were able to enroll in coverage for the first time and Democrats overcame the largesse of big Pharma to give Medcare the power to negotiate for lower drug prices for seniors. We have not seen this level of progress since the passage of the Affordable Care Act, and it is only paving the way for more victories in the fight to ensure affordable health care is a right for every American.” 

By The Numbers

• A record 14.5 million Americans were covered under an ACA plan in 2022.
• The uninsured rate is at an all-time low of 8 percent.
• 85 million people, or one in four Americans, have health coverage through Medicaid or CHIP.
• 13 million Americans with health insurance from an ACA marketplace plan will save an average of $2,400 per family on their premiums thanks to the Inflation
• 49 million Medicare beneficiaries no longer face outrageous price hikes for prescription drugs. 
• Seniors’ out-of-pocket costs for prescription drugs will be capped at $2,000 per year beginning in 2025.
• Insulin copays are capped at $35 per month for Medicare beneficiaries beginning in 2023. 
• 80 of the most expensive prescription drugs will have lower prices because of Medicare negotiations by 2030.

A Closer Look At Democrats’ Health Care Victories

Reaching Record Levels Of Health Care Coverage. Thanks in large part to the American Rescue Plan, the uninsured rate is at an all-time low. Last year, a record 14.5 million Americans received their health insurance through the ACA marketplaces. And this is just the beginning: Ahead of the 2023 open enrollment period, the Biden administration announced the single-largest investment ever in the Navigator program to help connect even more people to coverage, with a focus on outreach to racial and ethnic minorities, people in rural areas, LGBTQ+ people, and other underserved communities. With the enhanced subsidies in the Inflation Reduction Act and the Biden administration’s historic investment in the Navigator program, new enrollments are already up nearly 40% over last year. 

Reducing Premiums For Millions. Premium savings under the American Rescue Plan benefitted millions of Americans, with families saving an average of $2,400 a year on their health insurance premiums. For example, a family of four with an annual income of $60,000 saw their monthly premiums drop from $379, to just $158, saving more than $220 each month. The Inflation Reduction Act extended these premium savings for 13 million families, ensuring no one pays more than 8.5 percent of their income on coverage through the ACA. 

Protecting Seniors From Prescription Drug Hikes. Under the Inflation Reduction Act, when drug companies hike prices faster than that the rate of inflation, they will have to pay Medicare a rebate. This will not only save the government billions of dollars, but it will drastically reduce out-of-pocket costs for Medicare beneficiaries. Protecting seniors from these drug hikes will also work to reduce the racial inequities in our health system as Black Medicare beneficiaries are nearly twice as likely than white Medicare beneficiaries to stop taking a prescription due to cost.  

Giving Medicare The Power To Negotiate. The Inflation Reduction Act finally ended the ban on giving Medicare the power to negotiate lower drug prices, which will save taxpayers billions of dollars and lower costs for some of the most popular and expensive prescription drugs.  These savings will be seen in not just the federal government but also in the out-of-pocket medical expenses paid by millions of American families. By 2030, 80 of the most expensive prescription drugs will have lower prices because of these negotiations.

Capping Drug Costs For Seniors. Millions of people on Medicare still struggle to pay for life-saving prescriptions. People with conditions such as cancer can face thousands in out-of-pocket costs annually even with Medicare coverage. The Inflation Reduction Act dramatically changes this reality for millions of Americans. Under this new law, Part D plans will be required to offer improved financial protections and cap annual out-of-pocket spending to $2,000. This will provide the over 46.6 million Americans with Medicare Part D more reassurance and financial stability knowing these prices are capped.

Cutting Insulin Costs. The outrageous prices of insulin, a drug vital for the survival of 3,429,000 Medicare beneficiaries, have forced 80 percent of Americans with diabetes to take out debt in order to pay for their prescriptions and over 13 percent to skip doses entirely due to high costs. The Inflation Reduction Act caps insulin prices at no more than $35 for all Medicare beneficiaries beginning in January — saving seniors up to $1,500 annually.

Fixing The Family Glitch. President Biden eliminated the family glitch, allowing an additional 1 million people to purchase affordable coverage on the ACA marketplaces with premium tax credits. Previously, millions of families were blocked from receiving affordable coverage under the ACA. A Health Affairs study estimated Americans in the family glitch pay an average of 15.8 percent of their income towards health premiums, nearly double what is permitted under the ACA. An estimated 200,000 uninsured Americans will gain coverage and many families will save hundreds of dollars each much on health premiums.

Ensuring Lifesaving Vaccine Access For Seniors. All Medicare Part D beneficiaries will have access to covered vaccines, such as shingles and Tdap, at no cost starting in 2023. Vaccination programs are a racial equity issue, with white Americans nearly twice as likely to have received the shingles vaccine than Black Americans.  This provision alone will save seniors hundreds of dollars on their health care costs, keep millions of people healthy, and prevent dangerous complications associated with shingles, and other serious diseases. 

Improving Maternal Health Access. The American Rescue Plan created a pathway to coverage for pregnant Americans, allowing states to extend postpartum coverage under Medicaid from 60 days to 12 months following pregnancy. The United States has the highest rate of maternal mortality in the industrialized world, with 12 percent of maternal deaths occurring between six weeks and one year following delivery, after Medicaid coverage has ended. Today, 37 states and the District of Columbia have extended or plan to extend this coverage to the full 12 months allotted by the American Rescue Plan. Congress extended this option in recent legislation. 

Protecting Health Care For Moms And Kids. Congress recently passed legislation to guarantee 12-month continuous coverage for children on Medicaid and CHIP once they are enrolled, ensuring millions are not arbitrarily thrown off of their coverage. It also gives states the ability to extend postpartum Medicaid coverage for new mothers and takes important steps to ensure people who qualify for Medicaid stay covered when states are allowed to end pandemic coverage requirements.

Addressing Racial Disparities and Increasing Health Care Access. The premium savings continued through the Inflation Reduction Act have made more than 65 percent of uninsured Black adults and more than 68 percent of uninsured Hispanic and Latino adults eligible for zero-dollar premium plans. Nearly 80 percent of uninsured Hispanic and Latino adults and 75 percent of uninsured Black adults can now also access plans for less than $50 a month. The Center on Budget Policy and Priorities estimates the premium savings under the Inflation Reduction Act will cause a sharp decline in the uninsured rate across every racial group, with a projected one in three uninsured Black adults gaining coverage. 

Improving Health Care In Rural America. Thanks to premium savings in the Inflation Reduction Act, roughly 65 percent of rural Americans now have access to zero-dollar premium health coverage and more than 76 percent are able to find a plan for less than $50 a month, narrowing the coverage differences significantly between rural and urban America.

Banning Surprise Billing. The No Surprises Act went into effect January 1, 2022 and prohibits surprise medical bills for out-of-network care that occurs in unexpected or emergency situations. The Biden administration is committed to protecting patients and holding insurers and providers accountable for deceptive billing practices. 

Expanding Low-Income Subsidies Will Be Available To Even More Americans. Currently, individuals with an income between 135 percent and 150 percent of the poverty level only receive partial assistance with their medical expenses through Medicare Part D. Under the Inflation Reduction Act, Democrats have increased the range of full subsidized assistance to individuals with incomes up to 150% above the poverty level. This will allow for 417,000 more Americans to have access to full Medicare Part D assistance, helping them afford countless life-saving medications beginning in 2024.

Washington DC — Today, Congress passed historic legislation to improve the health and well-being of children, mothers, and families nationwide. The bill guarantees 12-month continuous coverage for children on Medicaid and CHIP once they are enrolled and takes important steps to ensure people who qualify for Medicaid stay covered when states are allowed to end pandemic coverage requirements. It also continues giving states the ability to extend postpartum Medicaid coverage for new mothers from 60 days to 12 months. To date, only 37 states and the District of Columbia require this coverage, so this bill makes it even easier for holdout states to do the right thing and take advantage of this option. These steps will especially help families in communities of color and rural areas. In response, Protect Our Care Chair Leslie Dach issued the following statement: 

“Today marks another health care victory for the American people, capping off a remarkable year in making health care more accessible, affordable, and equitable for millions of Americans. Families will be protected from coverage loss at the end of the public health emergency, and this legislation is also a critical step toward reducing maternal mortality and addressing disparities in health care access. Protecting and expanding Medicaid access will help moms and kids live longer and healthier lives, and it will help improve families’ financial security. We owe a debt of gratitude to Democrats in Congress who fought tirelessly to get this deal over the finish line and strengthen health care for years to come.” 

 

Washington, DC – At the end of December, Dr. Anthony Fauci will step down from his positions as President Biden’s top medical advisor and the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, which he has led for 38 years. A leading expert who has served under the last seven presidents, Dr. Fauci played a pivotal role in the nation’s battle against HIV/AIDS. He also received the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his sound judgment and guidance. In response to his retirement from government service, Protect Our Care Chair Leslie Dach issued the following statement:

“America owes a tremendous debt of gratitude to Dr. Anthony Fauci. He will go down in history as one of the greatest public health leaders of the last century. When faced with unprecedented challenges like COVID-19 and HIV/AIDS, Dr. Fauci led scientific, clinical, and government responses that saved countless lives. He stepped up and took on the role of a fearless advocate and spoke truth to power to seven presidents, even while at times risking his personal safety. He was a guiding light through multiple public health crises and worked tirelessly in the best interest of the American people. I had the honor of working with Dr. Fauci on combating the Ebola outbreak in Africa in 2014, and I witnessed his resolute and caring nature firsthand. America is stronger and healthier because of him.”

Dr. Anthony Fauci By the Numbers

• Author, coauthor, or editor of more than 1,300 scientific publications, including several textbooks. A 2021 analysis of Google Scholar citations ranks Dr. Fauci as the 35th most-cited living researcher in the world. 
• 50 honorary doctoral degrees from universities in the U.S. and all over the world. 
• Awards include the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the National Medal of Science, the George M. Kober Medal of the Association of American Physicians, the Mary Woodard Lasker Award for Public Service, the Albany Medical Center Prize in Medicine and Biomedical Research, the Robert Koch Gold Medal, the Prince Mahidol Award, and the Canada Gairdner Global Health Award.  
• Member Of The National Academy of Sciences, the National Academy of Medicine, the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, the American Philosophical Society, the American College of Physicians, the American Society for Clinical Investigation, the Association of American Physicians, the Infectious Diseases Society of America, the American Association of Immunologists, and the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. 

Read more about Dr. Fauci’s accomplishments here

Washington DC — Today, Congress reached an agreement for an end-of-year package, which will include significant provisions to improve health care for children, mothers and families. The bill guarantees 12-month continuous coverage for children on Medicaid and CHIP once they are enrolled, ensuring millions are not arbitrarily thrown off of their coverage. It also gives states the ability to extend postpartum Medicaid coverage for new mothers and takes important steps to ensure people who qualify for Medicaid stay covered when states are allowed to end pandemic coverage requirements. These steps will especially help families in communities of color and rural areas. In response, Protect Our Care Chair Leslie Dach issued the following statement: 

“Congress has taken critical steps to secure health care for mothers and children, capping off  Democrats’ remarkable year of lowering costs and expanding coverage to millions of Americans. However, Republicans rejected additional common sense measures to keep moms and kids healthy – instead insisting on taking away money intended for people on Medicaid rather than making corporations pay their fair share of taxes. Democrats worked across the aisle to deliver for families, and now millions of people will live longer, healthier lives as a result.” 

Across the country, health care experts, lawmakers, and advocates joined Protect Our Care to discuss how Congress has a real opportunity to improve the health of moms and children before the end of the year. 

Speakers called on Congress to pass the Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act of 2021, which addresses key and preventable elements of the maternal health crisis, including addressing the social determinants of health contributing to maternal mortality, strengthening the perinatal workforce, and providing health care workers with the tools and training necessary to confront discriminatory and biased practices. 

Additionally, speakers highlighted the importance of protecting and strengthening Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) to ensure mothers and children receive the health care they need to thrive. To do this, Congress can require 12 months of continuous Medicaid coverage for people on Medicaid, guarantee 12 months of coverage for postpartum mothers, and permanently reauthorize CHIP funding.

A new Public Policy Polling survey finds overwhelming public support for a series of reforms that will improve the health of millions of children, pregnant women, and moms, particularly people of color and rural Americans. The U.S. has the highest maternal mortality rate of any industrialized country and 80 percent of deaths are entirely preventable. The burden of this crisis disproportionately falls on people of color and rural Americans. Now, Congress has a critical opportunity to address maternal mortality and save lives. 

WISCONSIN

On Friday, December 16, Wisconsin State Senator LaTonya Johnson, and Dr. Kristin Lyerly, MD, joined Protect Our Care Wisconsin to discuss how Congress has a real opportunity to improve the health of moms and children in Wisconsin through bipartisan, affordable, and commonsense solutions. “This is not a partisan issue. This is a human issue that affects our most vulnerable family members, friends, and neighbors,” said Dr. Lyerly. “As a physician who has dedicated my life to taking care of moms and babies, I am literally pleading with our leaders in Congress to do the same.” You can watch the event here.

Coverage:

• Wisconsin Examiner: Wisconsin advocates urge Congress to pass maternal health policies
• WisPolitics: Protect Our Care Wisconsin: Biden Administration continues to expand affordable coverage and protect consumers

MAINE

On Friday, December 16, State Representative Anne Perry and Dania Bowie of the Maine Women’s Lobby joined Protect Our Care to discuss how Congress has a real opportunity to improve the health of moms and children in Maine through bipartisan, affordable, and commonsense solutions. 

State Representative Anne Perry said, “The first year of a child’s life is critical to the baby and their mother.  The best prevention we can provide for our health care system is quality and accessible health care at the beginning of life.” 

Dania Bowie, Maine Women’s Lobby, said, “We will build a more gender-just and racially just nation when the needs of caregivers, infants, and families are put at the center. As we go into the new year, let’s set a resolution to make sure that our Congress is making healthcare a reality for every family.” You can watch the event here.

OHIO

On Thursday, December 15th, Ohio leaders and health care advocates joined Protect Our Care Ohio to discuss how Congress has a real opportunity to improve the health of moms and children in Ohio through bipartisan, affordable, and commonsense solutions. “Congress has an urgent opportunity to address the maternal mortality crisis and improve the health of moms,” said Celeste Smith. “Make no mistake – there’s a maternal health crisis in our country, especially for Black mothers. As Congress considers its end-of-year package, they have not just an opportunity, but an obligation to take meaningful action to confront this preventable criss. Passing the Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act would be an enormous, live-saving step in the right direction.” 

“Children, especially those in vulnerable situations, should not be left behind,” said Erika White, Chair of Healthy Lucas County CHIP and President of Communications Workers of America Local 4319. “Instead of continuing to play games with children’s health care, Congress should permanently authorize CHIP – and provide kids in need with stable coverage once and for all.” You can watch the event here.

Coverage:

• WNWO (Toledo NBC): Protecting Health Care for Moms and Children in Ohio

PENNSYLVANIA

On Thursday, December 15th, health care advocates and storytellers joined Protect Our Care Pennsylvania to discuss how Congress has a real opportunity to improve the health of children in Pennsylvania through bipartisan, affordable, and commonsense solutions. “Federal funding of CHIP has made a huge difference. Hundreds of thousands of children have been covered by CHIP who otherwise have not had insurance without the program in place. Making funding permanent will be a huge help to ensuring families that coverage remains available to them, but also allows for states to plan effectively,” said Ann Bacharach of the Pennsylvania Health Access Network. 

“Keeping moms covered through the entire postpartum period is key. More than half of pregnancy associated deaths in Pennsylvania occur between 43 and 365 days postpartum. And for every maternal death, there are approximately 80 moms who experience a severe maternal morbidity, which can negatively impact their lifelong health,” said Sara Jann of the Maternity Care Coalition. “The clock is ticking for Congress to make this extension in coverage permanent and mandatory, this option sunsets in just over four years, and we cannot afford to go backwards.” You can watch the event here.

ALASKA 

On Thursday, December 15th, Trevor Storrs, Laura Norton-Cruz, and Judy Jessen joined Protect Our Care to discuss how Congress has a real opportunity to improve the health of moms and children in Alaska through bipartisan, affordable, and commonsense solutions. “Medicaid provides health care for over 200,000 low-income people in Alaska who would otherwise be uninsured. Women make up the majority of Medicaid enrollees. One in five women of reproductive age relies on Medicaid for healthcare coverage, and Medicaid is the source of coverage for nearly half of all women giving birth,” said Rose O’Hara-Jolley, Alaska State Director of Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates. “Without Medicaid coverage, Alaska’s most vulnerable communities will suffer, especially those who already face barriers to care.” 

“Children are our most valuable resource. They make up about 25% of our population, but they’re 100% of our future. Who we are today is a window to our future, and when children and families have the resources needed to create safe, stable, and nurturing environments, we’ll have a future generation that is truly equipped to ensure our great state of Alaska continues to prosper,” said Trevor Storrs, President and CEO of Alaska Children’s Trust. “CHIP has existed for nearly 25 years. There’s a ton of evidence that shows how it helps children and families thrive. Today it’s time that we reauthorize it permanently. Medicaid and CHIP are so much more than just how they are tools that said children on the path to success.” You can watch the event here.

NORTH CAROLINA

On Wednesday, December 14, Congressman G.K. Butterfield joined Protect Our Care Executive Director Brad Woodhouse to discuss how Congress has a real opportunity to improve the health of moms and children in North Carolina through bipartisan, affordable, and commonsense solutions.“Medicaid and CHIP save lives — we are going to continue to insist over the next few days that we get this right and protect vulnerable Americans who need health care,” said Congressman G.K. Butterfield. 

“Postnatal care saved my life,” said Stacy Staggs of Little Lobbyists. “If it’s in place for more people, it will save more lives and lead to better health outcomes for everyone. That should be a universal legislative priority.” 

“There is massive support for these year-end health care provisions – permanently funding the CHIP program, protecting health care for moms, and passing the Momnibus Act,” said Protect Our Care Executive Director Brad Woodhouse. “So much progress has been made, but there is more to be done and this year-end package presents a great opportunity to do it.” You can watch the event here.

U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Congresswoman Lois Frankel, HHS Officials, and Health Care Advocates Headlined Events Highlighting How Americans Can Save This Open Enrollment

Across the country, health care experts, lawmakers, and advocates joined Protect Our Care to discuss the 2023 Open Enrollment period under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace. Coverage is more affordable than ever before thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, which expanded premium subsidies and lowered costs for families nationwide. Four out of five people are eligible for coverage at $10 or less, saving many families thousands of dollars a year on health care. 

The Inflation Reduction Act is historic legislation that reduces health care premiums for 13 million families. Last year, a record-breaking 14.5 million people signed up for coverage through the ACA marketplaces. Ahead of this open enrollment period, the Biden administration announced the single-largest investment ever in the Navigators program, to help connect even more people to coverage, with a focus on outreach to racial and ethnic minorities, people in rural areas, LGBTQ+ people, and other underserved communities. President Biden also eliminated the family glitch, allowing an additional 1 million people to be eligible for affordable health care on the marketplace and receive premium subsidies. With the enhanced subsidies in the Inflation Reduction Act and the Biden administration’s historic investment in the Navigator program, new enrollments are up nearly 40% over last year. These actions ensure access to quality, affordable, and equitable care for years to come.

COLORADO

Thursday, December 15, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Regional Director Lily Griego joined Colorado Speaker of the House Julie McCluskie, Senator Dylan Roberts, Healthier Colorado and Protect Our Care Colorado to discuss the ACA Open Enrollment 2023 period and policies that have been enacted on the federal and state level to provide Coloradans with the resources they need to enroll in quality, affordable coverage. “It is great to be here today with such incredible lawmakers and advocates and with Protect Our Care to talk about delivering lower health care costs and what that means now that we have entered the ACA Open Enrollment which began November 1,” said Director Lily Griego. “Health care lies at the heart of the recently passed Inflation Reduction Act, and the proposals to reduce costs and expand care are overwhelmingly popular with Coloradans and people across the country. The Inflation Reduction Act will reduce racial inequities in health care, improve the health and well-being of seniors and people with disabilities, strengthen families, and save lives across Colorado.” You can watch the event here.

MICHIGAN

Wednesday December 14, health care leaders and experts joined Protect Our Care Michigan to discuss the ACA Open Enrollment period that started on Nov. 1, 2022, and the resources Michiganders need to enroll in quality, affordable coverage. Speakers will also highlight how the Inflation Reduction Act will keep health care costs low for Michiganders enrolling in ACA marketplace plans this year. “The Inflation Reduction Act is historic when it comes to lowering the cost of health care coverage for hard-working Michiganders,” said State Rep. Laurie Pohutsky. “Right now 85% of our residents with a health plan on the marketplace are receiving enhanced premium tax credits, making their coverage affordable and accessible.” You can watch the event here.

GEORGIA

Tuesday, December 13, a panel joined Protect Our Care Georgia to discuss the ACA Open Enrollment 2023 period and to provide Georgians with the resources they need to enroll in quality, affordable coverage. “In 2021, a record-breaking number of Georgians enrolled in an ACA marketplace plan. Right now, 92% of those folks are receiving premium tax credits, making their coverage more affordable. The Inflation Reduction Act, the legislation that extended those tax credits, will save an average middle-class family of four in Georgia $4,916 on their yearly premiums,” said Joe Binns, Protect Our Care Georgia State Director. “The Inflation Reduction Act and the Affordable Care Act together can really make a big difference – not only in your health but your wallet,” said Himali Patel, an Atlanta small business owner with multiple autoimmune diseases. Patel gets her healthcare through the Affordable Care Act’s marketplace and has seen her premiums reduced by the Inflation Reduction Act’s extension of premium tax credits. “Take advantage of this opportunity and make sure you’re enrolled for your healthcare plan going into the new year,” said Antrell Tyson, Health and Human Services Regional Director, Region 4. “At Healthcare.gov, you can shop and enroll on your own or find local help to walk you through the application. You have until December 15th to enroll for coverage starting January 1, 2023. You have until January 15th to enroll for coverage starting in February of 2023.” You can watch the event here.

Coverage:

• Georgia Recorder: Window closing to start 2023 with health coverage through the federal marketplace

MINNESOTA

Tuesday, December 13, MNsure CEO Nate Clark, Health and Human Services Director Joseph Palm, and Peter Orth of American Senior Benefits  will join Protect Our Care Minnesota to discuss the upcoming affordable health care options ahead of the  Dec. 15 deadline for January 1st coverage and will provide Minnesotans with the resources they need to enroll in quality, affordable coverage. “We estimate that families who enroll in MNSure, will save an average of $560 per month, thanks to the enhanced benefits from the Inflation Reduction Act,” said MNsure CEO Nate Clark. “That’s over $6,000 dollars that goes back into their pockets in 2023. Our message for Minnesotans is simple, if you look for lower cost health insurance in the past, it’s worth taking another look this year” Peter Orth of American Senior Benefits said, “One of our agents picked up a call from someone seeking MNSure plans through the MNSure portal and found that she didn’t apply for tax credits, so they nixed the application and redid it for them. The phone call took about 20-25 minutes, and she saved $260 per month in premiums, which was a game-changer for her and her life.” You can watch the event here.

Coverage:

• KMSP (Fox): Discussing Health Care Options Before Upcoming ACA Deadline

NEW HAMPSHIRE

​​Monday, December 12, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) will host a panel discussion with ACA navigators to share information around open enrollment. She will encourage Granite Staters to enroll in health care and discuss her successful push to reduce ACA premiums with service organizations that serve vulnerable populations. The four ACA navigators in New Hampshire – Health Market Connect, Lamprey Health Care, Foundation for Health Family and Harbor Care – will participate in the discussion, and Jayme Simões of Protect Our Care will moderate the event. “We continue to see the importance of expanding access to quality, affordable health care as new COVID variants and viruses like the flu and RSV emerge,” said Senator Shaheen. “That’s why I hosted this discussion today to highlight essential resources available to help Granite Staters enroll in health insurance, including excellent Navigators across our state. I’ve prioritized efforts in Congress to successfully lower health care premiums, making health insurance on the marketplace more affordable than ever. I encourage all Granite Staters to shop for the plan that’s right for them during Open Enrollment season by visiting HealthCare.gov.”

Coverage:

• Insurance NewsNet: Shaheen hosts panel discussion with ACA navigators encouraging Granite Staters to enroll in health insurance

NEVADA

Monday, December 12, U.S Department of Health and Human Services Regional Director Dr. Jeffrey Reynoso, Nevada Health Link’s communication officer, Katie Charleson, and health insurance enrollee Jason Karsh joined Protect Our Care Nevada to discuss Nevada Health Link’s Open Enrollment 2023 period that closes on January 15, 2023, and provided Nevadans with the resources they need to enroll in quality, affordable coverage. “Every American deserves the peace of mind that quality, affordable health insurance brings,” said Dr. Reynoso, HHS Regional Director. “Americans facing illness should never have to worry about how they are going to pay for their treatment, or face a choice between buying life saving medications and putting food on the table, especially during this holiday season.” “Getting enrolled in health insurance can be a daunting and confusing process for many people, but Nevada Health Link provides free assistance from licensed enrollment professionals can help you find a plan within your budget and ensure you have everything you need when it comes time to enroll,” said Katie Charleson, Nevada Health Link. “Nevada Health Link is here to answer any questions, help to see if you qualify for subsidies and overall, make the enrollment process as easy as possible. Most consumers are surprised to find out they qualify for subsidies and plans are more affordable than they originally thought.” “I have purchased my health insurance through Nevada Health Link for the last seven years,” said Jason Karsh, Nevada Health Link Enrollee. “Being able to buy my health insurance through the exchange has given me the flexibility to work independently without worrying about my health coverage being tied to an employer. Like tens of thousands of Nevadans, I qualify for tax credits which has made my health insurance affordable and I have worked with a health insurance navigator which makes choosing the right coverage extremely easy. All of this not only gives me the freedom to work for myself, but the peace of mind to know I will be covered in case I get sick or need emergency care. And the security I have now that the tax credits have been extended for another three years means I can plan better for the future while keeping more money in my pocket.” You can watch the event here.

Coverage:

• KRNV (NBC Reno): Protect Our Care Nevada urges the community to take advantage of Open Enrollment
• KRNV (NBC Reno): Protect Our Care Nevada Highlights Affordable Health Care Options 
• KSNV (NBC Las Vegas): Nevada Open Enrollment Happening Now
• The Nevada Independent: After Congress extends subsidies, officials urge Nevadans to get health insurance

FLORIDA

Thursday, December 8, Congresswoman Lois Frankel, Health and Human Services Regional Director Antrell Tyson, and Healthcare Advocates will join Protect Our Care Florida to discuss the upcoming ACA Open Enrollment 2023 period starting on November 1, 2022 and will provide Floridians with the resources they need to enroll in quality, affordable coverage. Antrell Tyson said, “The impact of this new law cannot be overstated as it will lower health care costs for more than 63 million people across the country with Medicare coverage. Also, those who have found coverage under the ACA marketplace will save hundreds of dollars per year on their health insurance, with some options as low as $10 a month thanks to enhanced tax credits authorized under the Inflation Reduction Act.” Congresswoman Lois Frankel said, “If we have learned anything from the past few years, it is how important our health is. There is good news today as the United States Congress, under the leadership of President Biden, has with recent legislation expanded the Affordable Care Act for how many people can get it and lowered premiums.” You can watch the event here.

Coverage:

• WFLA News Radio: Florida Congresswoman Reminds Families ACA Deadline Is One Week Away

WISCONSIN

Tuesday, December 6, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Regional Administrator Dennis Gonzalez and Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley will join a Southeastern Wisconsin Obamacare Marketplace Consumer and Navigator for a press event hosted by Protect Our Care Wisconsin to urge consumers to participate in the ACA Open Enrollment 2023 period that ends December 15th. The event will focus on resources and information available to consumers who need to enroll in quality, affordable coverage. “Milwaukee County’s vision is to become the healthiest county in the state of Wisconsin by achieving both race and health equity,” said Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley as he urged residents to get covered. The County Executive went on to note that under the recently enacted Inflation Reduction Act, “Many consumers who have health insurance plans through healthcare.gov will continue to save money on their premiums.” You can watch the event here.

Coverage:

• WISN (Milwaukee ABC): Health Care Open Enrollment 
• WISN: Health Care Open Enrollment 
• Wisconsin Examiner: Officials spotlight next week’s ACA deadline