Commentary: Yesterday, Governor Susana Martinez made clear that health coverage gains under the Affordable Care Act must be protected. According to the Associated Press, the Governor “has offered assurances that people won't be left without health insurance as President-elect Donald Trump and fellow Republicans seek to overhaul the Affordable Care Act.” Over 300,000 New Mexicans have gained coverage thanks to the Affordable Care Act, causing the uninsured rate to drop to historic lows.
“We commend Governor Martinez for her commitment to people in New Mexico who finally have access to quality health care,” said Barbara Webber, Executive Director of Health Action New Mexico. “Because of health reform, consumers can get covered if they have a pre-existing condition, women can’t be charged more than men, and young adults can stay on their parents’ insurance. The expansion of Medicaid has greatly improved access to care and bolstered the New Mexico’s economy.”
Many consumers have expressed concern about what the election means for their health coverage. The Governor’s statement is a reassuring sign that leaders will fight to protect coverage gains. Experts say that changes are unlikely to occur during the 2017 plan year and that consumers should sign up for marketplace coverage by December 15th, 2016 to get covered by January 1st, 2017. The enrollment period ends on January 31st, 2017. Those eligible for Medicaid can start their coverage immediately.
Health Action New Mexico plans to continue connecting consumers to health coverage and organize a grassroots campaign to fight proposals that would dismantle, reduce, or limit Medicare and Medicaid or walk back our nation’s commitment to ensuring that all people have access to the health care they need.
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Health Action New Mexico is a consumer advocacy non-profit organization that focuses on bringing all New Mexico communities access to quality healthcare services. For more information, visit www.healthactionnm.org.