Senator Johnson Addresses Healthcare Issues, Signs Divided We Fail Pledge
By: Source: AARP.org Date Posted: 2008-01-11 08:22:06.514685-05:00
Health care costs are out of control for both individuals and employers. One in four Americans has difficulty paying medical bills and one in three says they have skipped treatment, tests or prescriptions because of costs. Forty-six million Americans are uninsured and middle class families are the fastest growing segment.
"In South Dakota, up to 90,000 of us are without health insurance each year," said AARP South Dakota State Director, Sarah Jennings. "AARP believes this is unacceptable. AARP also believes accomplishing the goal of finding solutions in health and financial security that benefit all generations will require the efforts individuals, businesses, and government."
To discuss these critical issues, AARP South Dakota recently hosted a healthcare roundtable discussion. Participants in the discussion include South Dakota Senator Tim Johnson; Patrick Gross, AARP South Dakota Volunteer President; Bob O'Connell, Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce; Joan McMillin, National Association of Social Workers; Scott Graff, Community Healthcare Association of the Dakotas; and Karen Kovar, Home Federal Bank. The group shared perspectives on the health care challenges facing South Dakotans from the viewpoint of the business community, government, individuals, health care providers, and the financial sector.
During the discussion, Senator Johnson reiterated his commitment to Divided We Fail. Johnson has signed a pledge to work across party lines to sponsor or support legislation seeking to: provide every American with access to quality affordable health care; strengthen social security in a manner that treats all generations fairly; provide Americans with greater access to retirement plans and develop policies that help ensure all workers - regardless of age - can continue to work and contribute to society.
"Throughout this past year, I have learned the importance of having reliable healthcare," said Senator Johnson. "I am committed to working towards providing that same level of care to all South Dakotans."
"AARP South Dakota applauds Senator Johnson for committing to work together with his colleagues in Congress to do what is right for South Dakotans, and all Americans," says Jennings.
Senator John Thune and Congresswoman Stephanie Herseth Sandlin have also signed the pledge.
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