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Ascension has announced its participation in a coalition urging Congress to maintain and expand access to healthcare for millions of Americans. The organization emphasizes its mission to serve vulnerable populations by advocating for policies that ensure quality and affordable care.
Currently, over 20 million Americans who purchase health plans on the individual marketplace benefit from enhanced premium tax credits. These credits are crucial for affording monthly premiums and accessing necessary healthcare services. However, these credits are set to expire at the end of 2025 unless Congress acts to extend them, potentially leaving around four million people uninsured.
Ascension has joined Keep Americans Covered, a coalition comprising healthcare providers, insurers, community leaders, and patient advocates. This group aims to keep healthcare affordable for those reliant on these financial supports by urging Congress to maintain the premium assistance.
The tax credits, initiated in 2021 and extended in 2022, have significantly reduced uninsured rates and provided substantial savings for millions enrolled in the individual marketplace. They have resulted in an approximate 48% reduction in monthly premiums, saving individuals about $700 annually while promoting healthier communities by reducing barriers to care.
A survey by Keeping Americans Covered reveals that "an overwhelming bipartisan majority (86%) want newly-elected leaders to preserve expiring health care tax credits." This bipartisan support highlights the importance of maintaining healthcare access amidst various economic challenges.
To illustrate the potential impact of letting these credits expire, Keeping Americans Covered has developed an interactive map showing how families across states could be affected. By extending these tax credits, Congress can achieve a significant bipartisan victory and continue providing quality and affordable healthcare access for all Americans.
