Despite attempts by sane, compassionate Democratic Senators the GOP failed American citizens in the passage of H.R. 1 that will significantly cut Medicaid funding. If the House passes this bill knowing that Medicaid is the largest payer of mental health & substance use disorder services it will have irreversible repercussions for patients & their families. Dr. Theresa Miskimen, American Psychiatric Association President stated, “This is a huge blow for access to health care in America. In very real terms, this legislation will result in irreparable gaps in access to care for our country’s most vulnerable, many of whom have mental health & substance use disorders & they will suffer as a result.” Marketa M. Wills, M.D., M.B.A & APA CEO & Medical Director added, “The country is already facing a mental health & substance use disorder crisis. We cannot afford to have patients lose access to vital Medicaid services. We urge the House of Representatives to vote against this legislation. Despite this major setback, APA will continue to work for progress on behalf of psychiatrists & the patients they serve.” Sinead Murano-Kinney, Advocates for Trans Equality Health Policy Analyst concluded, "Make no mistake: this bill still contains many provisions that will endanger the health & well-being of millions of people across the country. For sure, the “defunding” of Planned Parenthood will jeopardize many trans people’s ability to access reproductive care, routine healthcare & transition-related healthcare. But we are relieved that a significant anti-trans provision was removed & we are grateful for all the members of our community who demanded that their representatives defend access to gender-affirming care.” We can make a difference this fight is by no means over.
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