The National Breast Cancer Coalition (NBCC) is deeply disappointed by the ruling from the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals in Texas vs. United States, a case challenging the Affordable Care Act (ACA). For those who depend on the Affordable Care Act, access to quality and affordable healthcare can mean life or death.
In a 2-1 opinion, the Court upheld the decision of the District Court for the Northern District of Texas that found the ACA individual mandate unconstitutional, and remanded the rest of the case to the District Court for a more detailed analysis regarding whether other parts of the ACA can stand without the mandate.
The pending litigation creates significant uncertainty that will affect the implementation and administration of the ACA. The Fifth Circuit’s decision means vital protections for breast cancer patients’ access to care are at risk. NBCC will join efforts to maintain the integrity of and protections afforded by the ACA.
Ensuring access to quality, evidence-based health care has been a top priority for the National Breast Cancer Coalition (NBCC) since its inception, and is an essential component of our mission to end breast cancer. The ACA provides breast cancer survivors and others vital protections from many of the past practices of the health care system-including elimination of lifetime caps and restrictions for women and men with pre-existing conditions. As a result of NBCC’s advocacy, the ACA also requires consumer representation on any committees, boards, panels or commissions formed under the law.
NBCC’s network of breast cancer advocates from across the country will continue its fight to defend the Affordable Care Act, and maintain its commitment to high quality care for all.
