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July 15, 2023

The Politics of Health Care

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Health Chatter

Stan and Clarence chat with Minnesota Senator John Marty on the politics of health care and SF2955.

Senator Marty (40, DFL) has served as a Minnesota senator since 1987, authoring countless bills. His current legislative concerns include Climate, Health Care, Economic Justice, education, economic development, environment, ethics, energy, criminal justice, social justice, racial justice, and gender justice.

Listen along as Senator Marty details SF2955 and illustrates the politics of health care. Join the conversation at healthchatterpodcast.com

Brought to you in support of Hue-MAN, who is Creating Healthy Communities through Innovative Partnerships. More about their work can be found at http://huemanpartnership.org/

 

SF 2955:

–The bill improves access, coverage, and stability for Minnesotans who need it most. Undocumented residents will be eligible for MinnesotaCare, and Medical Assistance will have improved eligibility for children. The bill protects reproductive care and improves dental health and mental health coverage, all of which lead to a more equitable health care system (CITE.) 

– It also takes the first steps toward creating a robust mental health system with investments like mental health grants and a 988 suicide and crisis lifeline. These investments will build out a system that will save lives, reduce stress on hospitals, and create appropriate spaces for mental health treatment.

– The budget provides for a MinnesotaCare Buy-In which will improve access and affordability for everyone. It will give Minnesotans a true choice in what health coverage is best for them by providing an affordable, reliable and quality option.

– It also makes several investments to support health care workers who form the foundation of our system. This includes provisions for workforce revitalization, workplace safety, EMS training and grants, and safe staffing levels for nurses. These investments will lead to improved care, increased access particularly in rural areas, and a stronger, more capable workforce.

– Lastly, this budget improves and guarantees reproductive care access now and in the future. With increased funding for reproductive health, funds for family planning, and the repeal of harmful anti-abortion language, the Health budget bill takes a firm stand on reproductive care. Under this bill every Minnesotan will be able to receive the care which serves them, their health, and their families best.

 

New MN law protects access to preventive health care threatened by court challenges to Affordable Care Act