Issue Position: Working for an American Health Care System

Issue Position

Visiting with folks around Greater Arizona, I've heard again and again that the rising cost of health care is one of their top concerns. I took office determined to get something done on this issue for District One, and to make sure that whatever reforms we make are done the right way.

In March -- after months of reviewing legislation, asking tough questions to folks on all sides of the issue and traveling the district listening to the thoughts, opinions, comments and concerns of my constituents -- I voted to pass the health insurance reform package into law.

I supported this legislation because of all that it will do for Greater Arizona's working families. It will protect folks in this district from insurance company abuses, like being denied coverage based on pre-existing conditions. It will make it easier for seniors to afford prescription drugs by closing the Medicare Part D donut hole. It will help small business owners better afford coverage for their employees with tax credits. It will make it possible for 443,000 people in Greater Arizona to access improved, more affordable care, and strengthens Medicare without cutting benefits.

I also supported reform because of what it will not do. It will not allow government to take over health care. Unlike in some proposals, Arizonans will still be able to choose their own insurance, their physicians will be free to practice medicine, and medical decisions will remain between individuals and their doctors. It will also not add to this country's fiscal crisis. In fact, the independent, nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office found it will reduce the deficit by well over a trillion dollars in the coming years. Click this link to see what health care reform will and will not do for Arizona families.

Now that this package is law, I am focused on making sure that it works for Arizona families as it is put into practice. Effective health reform is about what happens in our communities, not Washington, so I will be pushing to make sure everyone has the information and resources they need to take advantage of the rights, benefits and protections included in the bill.

This site will be a clearinghouse for folks looking to learn more about the bill -- please check out the links at the bottom of this page. My district offices are also eager to answer any questions you may have - you reach them with your questions and comments on health insurance reform here, or call toll-free at (877) 733-4586.

Furthermore, our offices are here to actively help you with any obstacles you encounter while these reforms are being put into place. Our caseworkers are always available to help you resolve your issues with the federal government, and they will be working to support folks in dealing with their insurance companies -- so that you know when your rights are being violated and you can get the assistance you need to fight back. If you think we can be of service to you, please e-mail me at HCQuestions.Kirkpatrick@mail.house.govThis e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call our toll-free number.

I also know that the process of making health care affordable and accessible is not over. I will continue to work with my health care advisory board -- which includes health care professionals, members of the business and labor community, elected officials, and others from across District One -- to ensure that these reforms work for Arizona families as they are put into practice. Together we will evaluate the progress and challenges of reform and offer the valuable feedback necessary to make sure health insurance reform works for Greater Arizona.

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