Affordable and accessible health care is out of reach for many American families. Over 47 million Americans have no health insurance, and the cost of coverage continues to rise much faster than inflation. The result is a difficult reality for many Americans. It’s also a struggle I’ve personally witnessed while growing up, when my mother searched for coverage as a breast cancer survivor.
During my service in the State Senate, I created a first-in-the-nation program that offered every senior citizen and disabled person in Illinois cheaper prescription drugs. I also supported legislation to help thousands of Illinois children and low-income families obtain affordable health insurance. We need to build on that progress both in Illinois and nationally so that everyone can have access to quality, affordable health care.
Small businesses should be able to bargain collectively for lower premiums on their employee health benefits. We must strengthen Medicare by allowing the Federal government to negotiate with drug companies for lower prescription drug prices. We also need to make sure insurance companies hold up their end of the bargain.
Through quality care and access to preventative care, we can save significantly, and more importantly, Americans will be healthier.
Debbie has received numerous awards for her leadership on health care:
• Freshman Legislator of the Year by the Illinois Health Care Association
• Distinguished Legislator of the Year from the National Alliance of the Mentally Ill
• Outstanding Legislator of the Year from the Illinois Hospital and Health Systems Association
• Legislator of the Year by the South Suburban Area on Aging
