(BOSTON) – “Americans want the peace of mind that they can go to a doctor when they get sick and receive high-quality affordable care. Today’s Supreme Court decision upholding the Affordable Care Act (ACA) is another major win toward health security for all Americans. The ruling confirms what we at Community Catalyst have known since the ACA was signed into law two years ago: the law is constitutional and should be fully implemented to benefit the American people. Importantly, the ruling removes any ambiguity about whether states should move forward with implementation-they should act swiftly to ensure people get the coverage they need.

“The ruling assures that the ACA can and will continue to benefit millions of people across the country. Children with pre-existing conditions will remain covered, and their parents will have the peace of mind that their children will be able to see a doctor when they are sick. Senior citizens will continue to benefit from lower prescription drug costs. Young adults can stay on their parents’ insurance as they start a career or continue their education, and small business owners can receive tax credits to help them provide affordable coverage to their employees. People will continue to receive free preventive care so doctors can detect illnesses early, before they get more expensive to treat.

“Looking forward, millions of Americans will gain new access to affordable health coverage. Much-needed reforms in our health care system will be enacted, such as improvements to the delivery system and addressing the cost of care; a crackdown on waste, fraud and abuse in Medicare; and an end to insurance company denials of care to people when they get sick or if they have a pre-existing condition.

“While we celebrate today’s ruling, we are concerned about the limitations on the Medicaid expansion. However, it would be shocking for governors or state legislatures to turn down billions in federal funding to lower the high rates of uninsurance in their state and to boost their economy. For the past 15 years, Community Catalyst has worked in nearly 40 states to ensure access to affordable health care. We will continue to work closely with our state partners, providers and insurers to ensure that coverage is expanded in every state.

“The Court has spoken and its ruling paves a clear path to affordable, quality health care. It is time to turn away from wrangling about the law and turn to implementing it for the benefit of the American people.”

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About Community Catalyst
Community Catalyst is a national non-profit consumer advocacy organization dedicated to quality affordable health care for all. Community Catalyst works in partnership with national, state and local consumer organizations, policymakers, and foundations, providing leadership and support to change the health care system so it serves everyone – especially vulnerable members of society. For more information, visit www.communitycatalyst.org. Read or comment on our blog at http://blog.communitycatalyst.org/. Follow us on Twitter @healthpolicyhub.