Women's Health Leader Calls House Vote to Repeal Health Reform a Deep Disappointment, Says Politics & Posturing Should End Now

WASHINGTON, Jan. 19, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The following is a statement of Debra L. Ness, President, National Partnership for Women & Families:

"The Affordable Care Act (ACA) is the greatest advance for women's health in a generation.  This new law is already eliminating the punitive and predatory insurance practices that have penalized women and families for decades, and is instead bringing us closer to the day when essential women's services are fully covered, prevention is a priority, and care is coordinated so family caregivers don't struggle to shoulder impossible loads.  That is why this evening's vote in the House of Representatives is such a deep disappointment.

"The ACA is ushering in an era in which women can access affordable coverage, and insurers cannot charge women more because of gender – or deny or cap our coverage when we get sick.  It is making screenings for breast and cervical cancer available without deductibles or co-pays, making family planning services more accessible, and outlawing gender discrimination in insurance.  It is ending the days when young adult children were kicked off their parents' insurance policies, and when the preventive services that can keep patients healthier were out-of-reach for millions.

"At this pivotal moment when we are just beginning to realize the benefits of the Affordable Care Act, it is a shame that House leaders chose to pursue a politically-motivated effort to repeal a law the nation urgently needs.  

"What we saw today was politicking and posturing when we need progress on jobs, the economy, creating a more fair and family-friendly nation, and finishing the work to give every person quality, affordable health care.  The nation will be much better off if tonight's vote marks the end of this political theater, and our lawmakers now return to solving the urgent problems facing America's families."

The National Partnership for Women & Families is a non-profit, non-partisan advocacy group dedicated to promoting fairness in the workplace, access to quality health care, and policies that help women and men meet the dual demands of work and family. More information is available at 202.986-2600.

SOURCE National Partnership for Women & Families