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Rep. Maloney on Introduction of House Health Care Reform Bill

Jul 14, 2009

Press Release

WASHINGTON, DC –Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D-NY) today praised the
introduction of the historic American Affordable Health Choices Act.
The House health care reform bill builds on what works in our health
care system and fixes what’s broken—putting patients first, increasing
access by offering a strong public plan, and reducing the burden of
ballooning costs on American families, businesses, and our fiscal
future.

“The stars are aligning to finally make our health system work for everyone. We have an opportunity to put doctors and patients back in charge, and give Americans peace of mind that they can keep the care they like and never be denied the care they need,” Rep. Carolyn Maloney said. “As President Obama said, this is an ‘unprecedented’ collaboration among three House committees to produce a plan that lowers costs, provides better care for patients, and ensures fair treatment of consumers by the insurance industry.

“To those who say we cannot afford to take these actions in the current economy because it will cost too much, I say we can’t afford NOT to. The growing cost of health care is one of the biggest drags on our economy,” said Maloney, who is also Chair of the Joint Economic Committee.

The House health care reform fulfills commitments made by Congress and President Obama to reform health care. The plan offers:

LOWER COSTS FOR CONSUMERS
· No more co-pays or deductibles for preventive care
· An annual cap on out-of-pocket expenses—keeping Americans from financial ruin
· An end to rate increases for pre-existing conditions, gender or occupation
· Group rates of a national pool if you buy your own plan
· Guaranteed affordable oral health, hearing and vision care for kids

GREATER CHOICE
· If you like your doctor and current plan you can keep them
· More choice, with a public health insurance option competing with private insurers

STABILITY & PEACE OF MIND
· End to denials for pre-existing conditions like heart disease, cancer or diabetes
· Get needed care, no lifetime limits
· Job and life choices no longer based on health care coverage

HIGHER QUALITY
· Doctors, not insurance giants, in charge
· More family doctors and nurses entering the workforce, helping to guarantee access
· Benefits must include mental health