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As a parent of two children who were born deaf, I have seen up close how expensive and complicated seeking quality healthcare can be. Through my role as a parent representative to the PA Department of Health Newborn Hearing Screening Committee, I learned how many Pennsylvanians live in healthcare deserts where they do not have access to the clinicians and services they need. As a political candidate, I hear every day about how expensive life has become for people. As a legislator in Harrisburg, ensuring affordable healthcare will be a top policy priority.
More specifically, I will support legislation that looks at this issue from a variety of perspectives. We have to start with prices. I support commonsense hospital price transparency reforms. People should know what they are paying for and have the opportunity to compare offerings and prices across health systems. In addition, more should be done to reduce the cost of prescription drugs. Whether it is through a Prescription Drug Affordability Board, or by extending negotiated prices, this must be a top legislative priority.
I believe we need meaningful oversight of hospital mergers and acquisitions. While some mergers may benefit patients and communities, others cause patients to lose access and pay more. The legislature should provide the Attorney General with the framework to protect citizens.
In a time when the reckless cuts at the Federal level caused thousands and thousands of Pennsylvanians to drop Pennie coverage, our state government has to look at ways to provide assistance and ways to encourage people to re-enroll. I am a firm believer in learning from others who have gone before. States like Colorado are a good test case for a public option. We should learn from them and explore if a similar program can be feasible in Pennsylvania.
At the most basic level, my district office will be a resource for residents. I know from personal experience that navigating healthcare and benefits can be complicated and overwhelming. My staff will help constituents find answers to questions and connect them to organizations and resources wherever possible.
Statement submitted by campaign or congressional office