States challenge Trump's action to end cost-sharing reduction payments
Insurance and provider organizations warn Congress there would be 'serious consequences' without legislative action.
States, insurers and providers are fighting back against President Trump's decision to end the cost-sharing reduction payments that help lower deductibles and keep consumers insured under the Affordable Care Act.
An estimated 20 attorneys general have filed a legal challenge, according to The Washington Post.
On Saturday, a coalition representing health plans, physicians, hospitals and businesses sent a joint letter to Congress requesting immediate action to fund CSRs.
[Also: Trump administration ends cost-sharing reduction payments under ACA]
"There will be serious consequences without Congressional action: millions will face higher premiums, fewer choices, and less access to the medical care they need," said the letter from eight healthcare organizations. "We join together again to urge Congress to take swift action to ensure continued funding for CSR benefits for 2017 and for at least the next two years (2018-2019) as part of a targeted, bipartisan solution to strengthen and stabilize the individual health insurance market.
"There will be serious consequences without Congressional action: millions will face higher premiums, fewer choices, and less access to the medical care they need."
[Also: Trump signs executive order that may destabilize ACA marketplaces]
The letter was signed by America's Health Insurance Plans, American Academy of Family Physicians, American Benefits Council, American Hospital Association, American Medical Association, Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, Federation of American Hospitals and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
Twitter: @SusanJMorse
Email the writer:susan.morse@himssmedia.com
