Patient Groups Disappointed by Ongoing Uncertainty in Wake of Supreme Court’s Decision Not to Expedite Health Care Case
January 21, 2020
The National MS Society joined other patient and health advocacy groups representing millions of Americans with pre-existing conditions in expressing disappointment over the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision today not to immediately take up the case of Texas v. United States.
The groups, which include the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, American Diabetes Association, American Heart Association, American Lung Association, along with more than a dozen others, filed an amicus curiae, or friend of the court brief, last week urging the Court to review the case citing the uncertainty patients would face with a prolonged delay should the case be left at the lower court level. The Court could still consider this latest challenge to the health care law through its regular process.
Following is the groups’ joint statement:
“The Court’s decision today will leave millions of Americans with pre-existing conditions and those who rely on federal tax credits to obtain coverage unsure about their ability to keep or afford comprehensive health care coverage for months to come. Their uncertainty is rooted in the reality that without the protections of the Affordable Care Act, patients and survivors may once again be denied health coverage due to their health history or be priced out of the care they need entirely.
“While the ultimate outcome of the law is uncertain, the connection between health coverage and health outcomes is clear. Access to affordable, comprehensive health insurance is essential to ensuring patients, survivors and their families can get the care they need when they need it and at a cost that reduces the economic strain.
“On behalf of all the people we represent, we urge the Supreme Court to accept this case for review within its regular order and minimize the continued uncertainty for patients.”
People with MS and their caregivers are welcome to speak with a Society MS Navigator about their MS related health insurance needs by contacting the Society through our toll-free number 1-800-344-4867.
Multiple sclerosis is an unpredictable disease of the central nervous system. Currently there is no cure. Symptoms vary from person to person and may include disabling fatigue, mobility challenges, cognitive changes, and vision issues. An estimated 1 million people live with MS in the United States. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to minimize disability. Significant progress is being made to achieve a world free of MS.
The National MS Society, founded in 1946, is the global leader of a growing movement dedicated to creating a world free of MS. The Society funds cutting-edge research for a cure, drives change through advocacy and provides programs and services to help people affected by MS live their best lives. Connect to learn more and get involved: nationalMSsociety.org, Facebook, X, formerly known as Twitter, Instagram, YouTube or 1-800-344-4867.