The American College of Pediatricians (the College) understands that the health and well-being of children is inextricably tied to the well-being of their families.
Unfortunately, the current proposals for healthcare reform would exact a huge financial toll on families through the likelihood of increased taxes and increased national debt. The health and well-being of children is also dependent on having a strong societal moral foundation, so it is of great concern to the College that the proposed bills support the sanctity of human life and the right of conscience for health care professionals.
Increasing the federal government’s control over medical care will diminish parents’ ability to make decisions that they feel are best for their children. It is also likely that such control will diminish physicians’ abilities to make - with families - decisions that they feel are best for their patients.
The College supports health care and insurance reforms that are ethical, increase efficiency, and empower ethical medical decision-making. We support parents having more choices for medical care and better coverage for their children. We support reforms that allow for insurance portability, that enhance benefits, and that allow groups to engage in medical expense sharing plans. For children who do not have financial means to obtain needed medical care, we believe assistance should be provided by those social entities closest to the person in need—including the local community, charitable organizations, and state governments.
Children - in order to thrive - need strong families, conscientious health care providers, and engaged local communities. Healthcare reform as currently proposed may radically and quickly undermine what is in the best interests of children.
The American College of Pediatricians is a national medical association of licensed physicians and healthcare professionals who specialize in the care of infants, children, and adolescents. The mission of the College is to enable all children to reach their optimal, physical and emotional health and well-being.