WASHINGTON, D.C. – Matt Eyles, president and CEO of America’s Health Insurance Plans (AHIP), issued this statement following the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals’ decision in TX v US on the validity of the Affordable Care Act (ACA):
“Every American deserves affordable coverage and high-quality care. This has been – and always will be – our commitment.
“Since its passage in 2010, the ACA has improved the health care system by protecting patients with pre-existing conditions, delivering affordable coverage options in the individual and group markets, reducing the uninsured by expanding Medicaid, and lowering costs for seniors on Medicare. While coverage in the individual market needs to be made more affordable, it is clear that the zeroing out of the mandate has not destabilized the individual market. Today there are more choices at lower costs.
“We had hoped the appeals court would have ruled outright that the entire ACA is valid, rather than returning the case back to the district court. The district court’s original decision to invalidate the entire ACA was misguided and wrong – and if the district court reaches the same conclusion as before, it will be misguided and wrong again.
“The good news is today’s decision will not affect anyone’s coverage or care for the foreseeable future. Patients will continue to be covered for the care they need. We will continue to engage throughout the legal process. Health insurance providers remain committed to continuing to serve all of their members, and to strengthening affordability, access and choices for every American.”
About AHIP
AHIP is the national association whose members provide coverage for health care and related services to hundreds of millions of Americans every day. Through these offerings, we improve and protect the health and financial security of consumers, families, businesses, communities and the nation. We are committed to market-based solutions and public-private partnerships that improve affordability, value, access, and well-being for consumers. Visit www.ahip.org for more information.