Washington, D.C., March 20, 2017 – The National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) and 86 other organizations issued a letter today calling on Congress to take a hard look at the likely significant and life-threatening consequences of the American Health Care Act on millions of patients. The organizations represent Americans with complex health needs who rely on Medicaid for access to care, prevention and treatment.
For example, Medicaid supports:
- Roughly half of all births – helping pregnant woman and infants receive care;
- Nearly a third of pediatric cancer patients; and
- Half of children and a third of adults with cystic fibrosis.
The American Health Care Act would cut Medicaid funds and reduce eligibility with the goal of cost savings, but at the expense of patients who rely on this vital safety net for their life-sustaining health care needs. Millions of patients would be left without Medicaid coverage under this proposal, threatening their ability to maintain their health and well-being. We implore Congress to take urgent action to protect constituents and communities across the nation.
Read the full letter and complete list of signing organizations.