Healthcare Reform WIN

With the passage of the healthcare bill, I am proud. Proud to be a Democrat, but more than that, proud to be an American.

What does this all mean for Michigan? From a press release from Rep. Gary Peters:

The 6.3 million Michigan residents who currently have insurance can keep their current plan and will have it strengthened, as reform prohibits annual and lifetime benefit limits, outlaws dropping individuals who become ill while insured and reduces the cost of preventive care.

Nearly 2.5 million middle class Michigan families will receive a tax cut to help pay for health coverage.

Over 200,000 small businesses will receive a tax break to help provide health coverage for owners’ families and employees, and will be able to purchase insurance at more competitive prices on insurance exchanges.

Nearly 1.6 million Medicare beneficiaries will see their benefits improved, such as new access to no-cost preventative care.

135,000 Michigan seniors affected by the Medicare Part D “donut hole” will benefit as the hole is eliminated over 10 years. Those entering the donut hole will receive a $250 rebate for prescription drugs this year, and the average beneficiary will save $700 in 2011 and $3000 by 2020 when the donut hole is eliminated.

141,000 Michigan residents with preexisting conditions like cancer, heart disease and diabetes could no longer be denied health coverage

536,000 uninsured Michigan residents would now have access to health insurance

781,000 young adults in Michigan could now remain on their parents health care coverage until they are 26 years old.

But as the President has said:

But the victory that matters most tonight goes beyond the laws and far past the numbers.

It is the peace of mind enjoyed by every American, no longer one injury or illness away from catastrophe.

It is a great night for America!



While this bill isn't what most of us wanted, we are so much closer to achieving our gooooooooooooooal of healthcare for all!