Insurance Commissioner: “Playing politics with peoples’ healthcare has consequences.”
Dover, DE – Delaware Insurance Commissioner Trinidad Navarro released the following statement denouncing President Donald J. Trump’s signing of Executive Order Ending Cost-Sharing Reductions.
“Every American deserves access to affordable and quality healthcare. President Trump’s decision to terminate critical cost-sharing payments is a nefarious attempt to prove that the Affordable Care Act is dying.”
“Today, millions of Americans, and approximately 27,000 Delawareans, are receiving the care and treatment not only that they need, but that we all deserve. The ACA is not perfect. Sadly, for many Americans, health insurance remains unaffordable. However, the Affordable Care Act was a major step in the right direction to eradicate the disparities that exist within the American healthcare system.”
“Throughout the campaign, President Trump told the American people that he had a solution. He says that he wants everyone covered and to have affordable health insurance. His Executive Order accomplishes none of those things.”
“President Trump has turned his back on the American people once again by putting a stop to the essential cost-sharing reductions. These payments from the federal government are essential to the structure of the ACA, which makes health insurance more affordable. In Delaware, over 80% of those who purchase insurance through the Marketplace receive the benefits of the cost-sharing reductions. This decision, in addition to attempting to slash navigator funding and putting up roadblocks by shortening the enrollment period, have serious consequences.”
“We know what has to be done. President Trump and the U.S. Congress must work together to ensure all Americans have access to affordable health insurance and that the health insurance covers everyone and every condition. As Insurance Commissioner, my job is to look out for the best interests of all Delawareans, not just those who constitute my ‘base’. I expect no less from our President and Congressional Leadership.”
The Delaware Department of Insurance would like to note that the Executive Order recently signed by President Trump stops only the CSR payments. President Trump did not terminate the premium credit that low income insureds receive in order to afford insurance through the ACA. This means that companies will not be reimbursed for the credits provided to consumers and that in future years these losses will result in even higher premiums or more companies withdrawing from the Exchange. Furthermore, the Executive Order does not affect the already approved rate increase for 2018. If it is not rescinded, however, it can affect rates for 2019.