Newsroom
PRESS STATEMENT: SENATE’S PASSAGE OF MEDICAID CUTS UNDERMINES BASIC HEALTHCARE SERVICES FOR AMERICANS
Wayne C. Shields, President and CEO
Association of Reproductive Health Professionals (ARHP)
For Immediate Release
December 22, 2005
Contact:
Janet Riessman
Day: (202) 466-3825
Evening: (202) 256-7280
jriessman@arhp.org
The members, board, and staff of the Association of Reproductive Health Professionals (ARHP) are greatly concerned that the cuts in spending on Medicaid passed by the Senate (S1932) will negatively affect the health and well-being of America’s low- and moderate-income families. These disturbing reductions would allow states to scale back or eliminate some Medicaid services that currently are guaranteed under Federal law, including family planning.
Medicaid is the cornerstone of America's health care safety net and the largest source of public funding for family planning services. Women in particular depend on Medicaid, making up three-quarters of all people covered by this program. Any cuts or major changes to Medicaid could put essential family planning services at risk.
We deplore the Senate’s action, as it represents yet another example of policymakers being out of step with the healthcare needs of all Americans.
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The Association of Reproductive Health Professionals (ARHP) is the leading
source for trusted medical education and information on reproductive and sexual
health. ARHP educates health care providers, informs consumers, and helps shape
public policy. ARHP is a non-profit membership association composed of highly
qualified and committed experts in reproductive health. ARHP members are health
professionals in clinical practice, education, research, and advocacy and they
include physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, nurse midwives,
researchers, educators, pharmacists, and other professionals in reproductive
health. To learn more, visit: http://www.arhp.org.
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