The recent passage of Trump’s health care bill in the U.S. House has sparked significant concern, particularly among women. As the legislation moves to the Republican-controlled Senate, it’s time for women to brace themselves for potential setbacks in health care access.
With a president who has shown disregard for women’s rights, it was only a matter of time before policies began to adversely affect our lives. Unfortunately, the implications of this bill are alarming. Let’s delve into the issue of “pre-existing conditions,” a term that could have devastating consequences for many women.
Under this new bill, instances of rape could be classified as pre-existing conditions. Domestic violence, too, may fall under this troubling category. Even a C-section could place women in a precarious position regarding insurance coverage. The war on women’s health is escalating, and the celebration that followed the bill’s passage only adds insult to injury.
Before the implementation of Obamacare, survivors of sexual assault often faced denial of coverage due to their medical history. This new legislation, particularly the MacArthur-Meadows Amendment, would empower states to once again discriminate based on past medical experiences.
For instance, prior to the Affordable Care Act, insurance agents discovered that rape survivors were often considered “too high risk” for coverage. Postpartum depression and injuries from domestic violence could also lead to women being marked as undesirable candidates for health insurance.
One survivor, Tara Evans, shared her experience of being denied coverage after revealing her past trauma, including a severe concussion from an abusive incident. Despite being otherwise healthy, the insurance company rejected her application without explanation.
As reported by the Los Angeles Times, the new bill would allow states to bypass essential protections established under the Affordable Care Act, potentially leading to significantly higher premiums that may be unaffordable for many women.
Historically, being a woman has often felt like a pre-existing condition in the U.S. For instance, about 33% of American mothers experience C-sections, while 20% of women will face sexual assault in their lifetimes, and 25% will endure domestic violence. This legislation threatens to exacerbate an already troubling reality.
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In summary, the passage of this health care bill signifies a disturbing trend that risks undermining the rights and health of women across the nation. As we await the Senate’s decision, it’s crucial to stay informed and advocate for equitable health care access.