“People across our country deserve a health care system that is both affordable and accessible, rather than a health care system that forces them to choose between coverage or affording groceries.” – Former Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Director Chiquita Brooks-LaSure
MADISON, Wis. — Yesterday, former Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Director Chiquita Brooks-LaSure and emergency medicine physician Chris Ford, discussed the impacts Wisconsinites could face if Congressional Republicans do not extend funding for the ACA. Brooks-LaSure and Dr. Ford emphasized the vulnerability of Wisconsin health care as the state has not expanded Medicaid, and the detrimental impacts cuts could have, particularly on rural communities.
WKOW: Former CMS director, physician warn of ‘catastrophic impacts’ if ACA funding is withheld
By: Brandon Taylor
See key points below:
- Former Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Director Chiquita Brooks-LaSure and emergency medicine physician Chris Ford warned Tuesday that Wisconsin and the rest of the United States could face severe consequences if Republicans refuse to continue funding the Affordable Care Act.
- “People across our country deserve a health care system that is both affordable and accessible, rather than a health care system that forces them to choose between coverage or affording groceries,” Brooks-LaSure said during a press call.
- Nearly 90% of the 313,579 Wisconsinites enrolled in ACA coverage could see premium increases when open enrollment begins in November.
- Brooks-LaSure said states that have not expanded Medicaid, such as Wisconsin, are particularly vulnerable because hospitals in both rural and urban areas are already under strain from uncompensated care costs.
- “When that coverage disappears, the nature of our emergencies changes; they become more avoidable crises,” Ford said.
