Rep. Chu Supports Bipartisan Fix to Improve Healthcare for Seniors and Children

Washington, D.C. – The House of Representatives today passed a bipartisan bill that would improve healthcare for seniors and children. H.R. 2, the Medicare Access and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Reauthorization Act of 2015, permanently fixes the sustainable growth rate (SGR) used to reimburse doctors for treatment of Medicare patients. The bill also extends the CHIP program for two years and provides funding for Community Health Centers through 2017. Rep. Judy Chu (CA-27) released the following statement:

“Today, I voted to support bipartisan action to fix a perennial problem in our healthcare system. Repeatedly patching the SGR has cost us nearly $170 billion since 2003 while doing nothing to help improve care for seniors. The bill also preserves the CHIP program for another two years and extends funding for Community Health Centers, which are programs that guarantee well rounded health care for low-income children and families.

“While I voted in support, I recognize that this deal was far from perfect. I am disappointed with the changes that would increase costs for Medicare beneficiaries who are considered high income. I am also disappointed that the bill included a provision that continues to place limitations on the ability of low-income women to exercise their reproductive rights.

“Despite these provisions, I believe the overall bill will improve the stability of our Medicare system for our seniors and continue to provide quality and accessible health care to our most vulnerable communities. In Congress, I will continue to fight for quality health care for all Americans and ensure that no one is left behind.”

A summary of The Medicare Access and Children’s Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2015 can be found here.