Cohen’s Statement on Blue Cross Blue Shield Dropping Out from ACA Marketplace in Memphis

[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) today released the following statement on the news that Blue Cross Blue Shield has pulled coverage from the federal health insurance marketplace under the Affordable Care Act in Memphis, Nashville, and Knoxville, Tennessee:

“It is disappointing that Blue Cross Blue Shield has pulled out of the Affordable Care Act federal marketplace in Memphis, Nashville, and Knoxville. Republicans in Congress have been doing everything in their power to dismantle the Affordable Care Act since it began, and the Tennessee General Assembly has refused to accept additional Medicaid funding from the federal government. This has created a more uncertain and riskier environment for health insurance providers. However, despite the efforts of those who wish to dismantle the Affordable Care Act, it continues to help Memphians every day by giving uninsured citizens access to high-quality, affordable health coverage; by making sure insurance companies can no longer discriminate against women or those with pre-existing conditions; by saving our seniors money on their prescription drugs; and by extending family coverage to young adults. That will not change. I and many other members of Congress believe that affordable health care should be a right, not a privilege, and we will continue to work to improve the Affordable Care Act. Whether it means including a public option or Medicare for all, we will make healthcare more affordable and available.”