ACA Repeal Proposal Called Threat to Medicaid, Medicare

Joe Baker, president of the Medicare Rights Center, issued the following statement in response to the Graham-Cassidy-Heller-Johnson Proposal:

Recent reports suggest the U.S. Senate is once again contemplating an Affordable Care Act (ACA) repeal bill, developed by Senators Graham, Cassidy, Heller, and Johnson, that would cause tens of millions of Americans to lose healthcare coverage. The proposal also includes cuts to Medicaid that could especially harm older adults, people with disabilities, and their families. Any threat to Medicaid is a threat to Medicare and the 11 million people who rely on both programs for basic health and financial security.

Once again, we call upon all members of Congress to do what the American people want them to do—work together on healthcare. Only a bipartisan process, and a return to regular order, can facilitate real reforms to the ACA that will enhance access and affordability for every American, including for older adults and people with disabilities. Medicaid and Medicare must be protected and coverage must be expanded not eliminated. The nation’s health depends on it.

For more information on resources and information available from the nonprofit, consumer advocacy group, visit the Medicare Rights webpage at www.medicarerights.org/protect.