Latest Version of Senate Healthcare Bill Called ‘Public Health Catastrophe’

SAN DIEGO, July 15 -- The American Public Health Association issued the following statement from Executive Director Georges Benjamin:

"The revised Senate plan to replace the Affordable Care Act is still irresponsible policy. Millions would lose insurance coverage, the sickest could still be denied access to critically needed care and far too many would pay even more for fewer benefits, creating an expanded class of underinsured.

"The bill, like previous versions, guts essential investments in public health by eliminating the Prevention and Public Health Fund.

"I urge our elected leaders to work together to find a bipartisan solution to fixing the Affordable Care Act. Let's build on the successes we've seen when lawmakers keep the health of the population at the forefront.

"We all can agree that affordable, accessible health care is a right, not a privilege. Any legislation coming out of Congress should reflect that fact and avoid a public health catastrophe."

APHA champions the health of all people and all communities. We strengthen the public health profession. We speak out for public health issues and policies backed by science. We are the only organization that combines a 145-year perspective, a broad-based member community and the ability to influence federal policy to improve the public's health. Visit us at www.apha.org.