Donovan Protects Patients with Pre-Existing Conditions

WASHINGTON, Feb. 17 -- Rep. Daniel Donovan, R-N.Y., issued the following news release:

Congressman Dan Donovan (NY-11) re-affirmed his commitment to supporting Americans with pre-existing conditions by joining Congressman Greg Walden (OR-2) to introduce legislation focused on protecting vulnerable patients during the healthcare system reform process. Walden sponsored the Pre-Existing Protection Act of 2017, with Donovan as an original cosponsor. The bill guarantees health insurance coverage for Americans with pre-existing conditions, if the Affordable Care Act (ACA) is repealed.

Congressman Donovan said "Patients suffering from serious conditions shouldn't be forced to choose between receiving medical care or going bankrupt. This legislation will ensure that every American has access to the health coverage they need, regardless of their health status. I look forward to helping pass this bill and will continue working to support real solutions that provide quality and affordable healthcare."

The bill aims to protect patients with pre-existing conditions in three main ways:

* guarantees access to health care coverage through individual and group markets;

* prohibits pre-existing condition benefit exclusions; and

* bans basing premium ratings off of health status.

According to statistics from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, an estimated 61 million Americans have pre-existing conditions. This bill creates a necessary safety-net for patients and families suffering from life-threatening conditions if the ACA is repealed without an immediate replacement.

Congressman Donovan is dedicated to putting in place reforms to create an improved and stable healthcare system. Today's legislation is the latest step in protecting patients and providing a stable transition period, while a comprehensive plan focused on increasing access to quality and affordable care is put in place.

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