December 22, 2020
Washington, D.C. – In response to Congressional passage of the $900 billion COVID-19 stimulus package, the following statement can be attributed to Alliance of Community Health Plans (ACHP) President and CEO Ceci Connolly:
“We applaud Congress for providing critical relief to help communities as they grapple with the COVID-19 public health crisis. These are important and necessary steps right now, but more action will be needed to ensure adequate resources to manage and mitigate the pandemic next year.
“Funding for testing will further the ability for everyone who needs a test to access one. In addition, federal support for vaccine distribution is vital to broad success, but allowing health plans access to vaccination data is key to making sure Americans receive both doses.
“ACHP appreciates Congressional efforts to improve care and coverage for seniors, many who are most vulnerable to the impact of COVID-19. We applaud the improved access to Medicare’s mental health services via virtual care and look forward to working with Congress to extend telehealth flexibility and permanency across the entire Medicare program. In addition, at a time when health care expenses are historically high, we appreciate maintaining robust benefits for seniors and supporting primary care providers by temporarily halting the harmful sequester reductions.
“ACHP is also pleased that consumers will have certainty they will not receive a surprise medical bill and look forward to working with Congress to refine the approach to mitigate any unintended consequences. ACHP members believe strongly in providing personalized, transparent health care cost and quality information to help consumers make the health care decisions that best meet their needs.”
About ACHP
The Alliance of Community Health Plans (ACHP) represents the nation’s top-performing non-profit health plans to improve affordability and outcomes in the health care system. ACHP member companies are provider-aligned health organizations that provide high-quality coverage and care to tens of millions of Americans. They are leading the industry in practical, proven reforms around primary care delivery, value-based payment and data-driven systems improvement.
ACHP advocates on behalf of its members and a unique approach to health care today, one that puts the patient at the center with health plans and clinical teams collaborating to improve health outcomes and reduce costs. Our advocacy focuses on providing policymakers with tested solutions being realized in communities nationwide and rooted in a model that is proven to deliver better value for patients, employers and taxpayers. Learn more at the ACHP website and follow us on Twitter for the latest health insights.
