Leave Behind Document: Position on the American Health Care Act (AHCA)

  Leave Behind Document: Position on the American Health Care Act (AHCA) Position Statement Opposition to the American Health Care Act (AHCA) Key Points: - Increased Uninsured Rates: The AHCA is projected to increase the number of uninsured individuals by millions, undermining access to essential healthcare services. - Cuts to Medicaid: The proposed cuts to Medicaid funding would disproportionately affect low-income families, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities, potentially leading to worse health outcomes and increased financial strain on vulnerable populations. - Pre-existing Conditions: The AHCA allows states to waive protections for individuals with pre-existing conditions, which could lead to higher premiums and limited access to necessary healthcare for millions of Americans. Reasons to Oppose the AHCA: - Impact on Public Health: A rise in uninsured individuals correlates with poorer public health outcomes, including increased rates of preventable diseases and higher mortality rates. This not only affects individuals but also places a greater burden on the healthcare system. - Economic Consequences: By cutting Medicaid and reducing healthcare coverage, the AHCA could lead to increased emergency room visits, which are more costly than preventative care. This could ultimately raise healthcare costs for everyone. - Ethical Responsibility: As healthcare professionals, we have an ethical obligation to advocate for policies that ensure equitable access to care for all individuals, regardless of their socioeconomic status or health conditions. Rationale for Position on the AHCA Legislative Context During the visit to my representative, I learned that they are a member of the Republican Party and have expressed support for the American Health Care Act (AHCA). Given this context, I aimed to present a well-reasoned argument against the AHCA, providing evidence-based rationale for my position. Points Covered in Support of My Opposition: 1. Increased Uninsured Rates: According to a study published in Health Affairs, estimates indicate that the AHCA could lead to approximately 24 million Americans losing their health insurance by 2026 (Blumenthal et al., 2017). This significant increase in uninsured individuals would have dire consequences for public health. 2. Medicaid Cuts and Vulnerable Populations: The Journal of Health Politics, Policy and Law highlights that cuts to Medicaid funding will disproportionately affect low-income individuals, children, and those with disabilities (Woolhandler & Himmelstein, 2017). Reducing access to Medicaid services jeopardizes the health and well-being of our most vulnerable populations. 3. Pre-existing Conditions: The AHCA's provisions allowing states to waive protections for pre-existing conditions raise significant ethical concerns. A report in The New England Journal of Medicine emphasizes that such policies can lead to discrimination against those with chronic illnesses, creating a healthcare environment that prioritizes profits over patient welfare (Sommers et al., 2017). Influence of Nursing Experience As a registered nurse with extensive experience in direct patient care, I am acutely aware of the challenges faced by patients navigating the healthcare system. My interactions with patients highlight the critical importance of access to affordable and comprehensive healthcare services. The AHCA’s potential consequences—such as increased uninsured rates and reduced Medicaid services—pose serious risks to patient health outcomes. Additionally, my role as a nurse places me in a unique position to advocate for vulnerable populations who may not have a voice in legislative discussions. I understand firsthand how socioeconomic factors influence health and access to care. This experience shapes my advocacy position against the AHCA, as I believe it undermines the very principles of equity and accessibility that are vital to improving public health. Conclusion In summary, opposing the American Health Care Act is grounded in evidence that underscores its potential negative impacts on uninsured rates, Medicaid funding, and protections for individuals with pre-existing conditions. My nursing practice informs my advocacy, emphasizing a commitment to equitable healthcare access for all individuals, which is essential for fostering a healthier society. References - Blumenthal, D., Collins, S. R., & Fowler, E. J. (2017). Health Insurance Coverage in the United States—An Update. Health Affairs, 36(5), 785-794. - Woolhandler, S., & Himmelstein, D. U. (2017). The Relationship of Health Insurance and Mortality: Is Lack of Insurance Deadly? Journal of Health Politics, Policy and Law, 42(2), 297-328. - Sommers, B. D., Gawande, A., & Baicker, K. (2017). Health Insurance Coverage and Health — What the Recent Evidence Tells Us. The New England Journal of Medicine, 377(6), 586-588.      

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