health care stories

AFC Vice President Laurie Wettstead rallies protesters in support of comprehensive health reform that benefits everyone, including non-profit employees whose coverage is put in jeopardy by Big Insurance profits.  See the video here.

The health care reform legislation now under consideration in Congress, the Affordable Health Care for America Act, will ensure that future applicants for coverage in America cannot be denied because of a pre-existing condition and offer essential choice in terms of selecting a suitable plan.

Because of the current patchwork nature of our government health care assistance and the prohibitively high cost of private insurance, millions of Americans fall through the cracks created by the health care system.  Whether it be unaffordable premiums, a pre-existing condition, an unreasonable Medicaid spend down, or simply high c

For many Americans with chronic health conditions, access to affordable prescription drugs is a life or death matter.  The health care reform bills moving through Congress will close the “donut hole” or Medicare Part D coverage gap and end it over time, providing a tremendous benefit for many seniors and people with disabilities.  Without ade

Identifying and treating illnesses as early as possible is the best way to prevent further damage to one’s health, but what if the costs associated with proper detection and care are too expensive?  For many this is a reality.  In our health care system those wealthy enough to afford suc

Those suffering from chronic health issues like HIV or AIDS are at a tremendous financial disadvantage because of the overwhelming cost of quality, long-term medical care and treatment.  Even if they are lucky enough to be covered, the out-of-pocket fees, high pr

After having been drugged and raped, Christina Turner was denied insurance coverage after losing her previous plan.  Though HIV negative, Turner's use of HIV medication, prescribed by her doctor as a preventative measure, raised "too many questions", according to a Huffington Post Investigative Fund article.  

Simon’s story is, unfortunately, a common one in America:  Unable to keep what little health care is available to him.  This cycle keeps hard-working Americans out of work and dependent on a system that cannot meet their medical or financial needs.  By offering an alternative public health care option that caps out-of-pock

Like Scott, many Americans are dependent on employer-based plans for health care coverage.  In this turbulent economy however, there is little assurance for long-term insurance coverage and few can afford private coverage from the open market if employer-based coverage ends.  What security is available to ensure you and your family are covered if economic circumstances in your household change? 

Because of the high cost associated with specialized health care such as optometry, dermatology or dental, many insurance plans do not cover these treatments.  However important, out-of-pocket expenses for these treatments are often too high to afford, let alone receive on a regular basis if necessary.  Americans with chronic diseases, including HIV/AIDS, need access to comprehensive, affordable dental and other