APHA supports passing of healthcare reform legislation

The American Public Health Association today applauded the U.S. Senate for passing historic health reform legislation.

"Thanks to today's Senate vote, we are one step closer to bringing much needed reform to our nation's health system," said Georges C. Benjamin, MD, FACP, FACEP (E), executive director of the American Public Health Association. "The bill will help reduce disability and death in the United States, lays the groundwork for future strengthening of our health system and gets us closer to our goal of universal health coverage."

In addition, the measure addresses the core principles of health reform outlined by APHA: expanding access to health insurance coverage, reducing cost, improving quality and moving toward a system that promotes prevention and wellness. In particular, the bill includes strong public health prevention measures.

"We look forward to working with both the House and Senate as the bill goes to conference to improve the measure by getting the strongest legislation possible that protects and enhances the public's health, improves quality and health equity, and addresses the fiscal barriers to quality health care," said Benjamin.