Rachel Stevens, FISM News
President Donald Trump laid out his vision for the future of American healthcare during remarks at a Charlotte, NC event, signing an executive order for “America First Healthcare.”
“As the world witnessed during our battle against the China virus, America has the greatest medical professionals anywhere on Earth. Today, I will lay out my vision for a healthcare system that puts patients first, families first, and — perhaps most importantly for all of us — America first”, Trump said.
Three pillars outlined in this plan include lower prescription drug costs, more consumer choice and greater transparency and quality of patient care. The executive order is intended to provide more protection for those with pre-existing conditions and an end to surprise medical billing.
Former President Barack Obama implemented the Affordable Care Act in 2010. Since his election, Trump continues to press the Supreme Court to repeal ACA. The case will be presented in court only a week after election day.
Trump asserts that his plan puts patients first, and he believes democrats are putting bureaucracy and government spending before patients. Joe Biden has reasserted since that he would work to keep the ACA implemented.
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) will work with Congress to meet a Dec. 31 deadline as outlined in the President’s orders.
Jim Parker, Senior advisor at HHS, told reporters in a press conference that President Trump’s plan is comprehensive and already delivering results.
This sentiment was echoed by Acting Director of Domestic Policy Council, Brooke Rollins. She stressed a point of doctor-run healthcare, and not government-run healthcare.
“The days of ripping off American patients are over,” Trump said.
Trump is the first President to sign an executive order specifically targeted at protections for patients with pre-existing conditions.
Sourced from Associated Press, HHS.gov and Whitehouse.gov