Responds To President's Address On Health Care To Joint-Session Of Congress

Statement

Responds To President's Address On Health Care To Joint-Session Of Congress

Congressman Joe Courtney offered the following statement following President Obama's Address to a Joint-Session of Congress Wednesday evening.

"President Obama has laid out a clear approach to healthcare reform, and has once again invited more discussion and input from all points of view."

"I have heard from thousands of my constituents during the August District Work Period through email, phone calls, and at the more than thirty healthcare related events I have participated in or hosted. Most agree that we need substantial healthcare reform that strengthens coverage and lowers costs for those who have insurance and extends access to those who do not."

"While the public option has taken center stage, we cannot forget other important provisions that make healthcare reform so urgent. This proposal will close the infamous ‘donut hole' in the Medicare Part D prescription drug program over time, which has created significant financial hardships for countless seniors. The proposal also ends the discriminatory practice of denying insurance coverage based on pre-existing conditions, protects insurance when workers change jobs, and will historic new assistance to small businesses in the form of tax credits and a large national insurance pool."

"Connecticut's small business community and working families need better choice in coverage that is affordable, reliable, ensures access to quality care, and delivers long-term economic growth."

"The quality of care that doctors and nurses provide every day across Connecticut is not in question. Rather, access to affordable, reliable insurance coverage and in turn better access to this care must be improved. We are nearing the goal line for significant reform and we must continue to move the ball forward."

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