WASHINGTON, D.C. – (November 10, 2020) – Every American deserves access to affordable, comprehensive coverage that protects their health and financial stability. While more work remains, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) made great strides to realize this important goal. That is particularly the case for more than 100 million Americans who live with a pre-existing condition – from cancer, to diabetes, to asthma, to chronic pain.
Today, the Supreme Court heard oral arguments in the constitutional challenge to the ACA. We are encouraged by the thoughtful questions raised by the Justices in today’s arguments and are confident that the Court will come to the right decision to uphold the law and sustain the ACA’s important consumer protections. Invalidating the law would be misguided and wrong and unleash chaos on the entire health care system. For Americans with pre-existing conditions, worrying about their health can be constant. Worrying about whether they will have coverage for their health conditions should not be.
Health insurance providers are united in their commitment to the ACA and its protections for Americans with pre-existing conditions. Regardless of your health, you should have the peace of mind of knowing that your health status will not result in your being charged more than others for your major medical coverage.
While the Supreme Court heard oral arguments today, the protections in the ACA were hard at work. Today, young adults can remain on their parents’ plan through age 26. Today, ACA premium subsidies and expanded funding for Medicaid programs in 36 states and the District of Columbia helps millions of Americans—including so many who lost their jobs due to COVID-19—get the coverage they need. And today, millions of seniors and disabled Americans can afford needed medications because the ACA eliminated the prescription drug “donut hole.”
Americans should be able to choose from many coverage options so they have the support to get well when they are sick and stay healthy when they are well. That’s why we support building upon the ACA and the protections it provides.
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.