Let’s Strengthen Our Current Health Care System, Not Start Over

WASHINGTON – As health care remains at the top of voters’ minds, it’s important to take a moment and reflect on the progress we have made to improve the current health care system. Today, hundreds of millions of Americans have access to health care plans that cover essential benefits – like preventive care, prescription drugs, and emergency services – regardless of pre-existing conditions. 

A Kaiser Family Foundation report shows nearly all Americans have been impacted by the current health care system: 

• 12 million more Americans are eligible for Medicaid in 33 states and Washington D.C.;
• 54 million Americans living with pre-existing conditions have access to care;
• Almost 2.3 million young adults are able to stay on their parents’ health insurance plan; and
• Nearly 150 million Americans have access to free preventative services with no out-of-pocket costs. 

Recent reporting also notes how coverage options through the health insurance marketplaces are expanding to meet growing demand. In 2021, 49 states will offer multiple health insurance plans for working families, and for the third straight year, the cost of premiums will decrease. During this critical time, let’s build on the progress we have made and improve what’s working where private coverage, Medicare, and Medicaid work together to expand access to coverage and care – not start over.