top of page

Healthcare

The Issue

In the U.S. today, between 45,000 and 60,000 people die each year from lack of accessible, affordable, medical care. Approximately 500,000 people face bankruptcy each year because of medical debt. Unfortunately, under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, these numbers will only grow, and even more Americans will be forced to choose between their health and their ability to pay rent or buy groceries. Furthermore, the already serious shortage of rural hospitals is about to get worse, and it is likely that Kentucky’s 5th will be affected. More patients with severe illnesses or injuries will have to drive or be transported for long distances to reach facilities that can treat them. Finally, cuts to Medicaid and telehealth will be devastating for behavioral and mental health, both of which have been neglected for too long. Though efforts have been made in recent years, we need to include physical and mental healthcare into any comprehensive healthcare program. People in eastern Kentucky depend on government-subsidized health services so they can continue to work or take care of their families, but still receive the care they need. To make a long point short, we need to restore funding for existing healthcare and more; we need a government run, universal, comprehensive healthcare system that is free at the point of service, paid for by U.S. tax dollars, and provided to everyone regardless of their background. The Medicare for All Act of 2025 has been proposed but is unlikely to advance in the current Congress. We need representatives and senators who would advocate and vote for this legislation.

Background Info
  • Kentucky Center for Economic Policy reports that hospitals in Whitesburg, Harlan, and Middlesboro are among those at risk of closing due to Medicaid cuts in the BBB

  • Fact sheet for Medicare for All (2023 version)

  • Options to pay for Medicare for All

Pending Legislation
  • House and Senate (S. 1506, H.R. 3069) Medicare for All Act  (2025) to establish national health insurance

We Deserve Action

Actions Needed Immediately

  • Repeal cuts to Medicaid and ACA tax exemptions

  • Pass Medicare for All

Longer-Term Actions

  • Pass comprehensive national health care; eliminate medical debt​

bottom of page