AHA Comments on Public Charge Proposed Rule

Rick Pollack
President and CEO

American Hospital Association

December 10, 2018

America’s hospitals and health systems have long served as leaders in their communities by connecting individuals and families to needed public programs, allowing them to maintain their health and well-being in order to remain productive members of society. The policies proposed by this public charge rule are contrary to this hospital mission of service to the most vulnerable, and if adopted, could put coverage at risk for millions, including children, seniors, the disabled and those with chronic conditions. The likely loss of coverage resulting from this rule would have a significant, detrimental impact on individuals, families, state Medicaid and CHIP programs and the hospitals and health systems serving these populations. Forgoing care because of the loss of coverage can exacerbate medical conditions, leading to sicker patients and a higher reliance on hospital emergency departments. In turn, this could drive up costs for all purchasers of care, and have a detrimental impact on public health. 

For these reasons, the AHA opposes this proposed rule and recommends the Department of Homeland Security withdraw it immediately.  

For the AHA’s recent comment letter to the Department of Homeland Security on the proposed rule, visit HERE. 
 

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Contact:       

Marie Johnson, (202) 626-2351 mjohnson@aha.org

Colin Milligan (202) 638-5491 cmilligan@aha.org