Update: Health Reform Law Ends the "Just Because You Have Diabetes" Excuse

Alexandria, VA
March 31, 2010
Contacts
Christine Feheley
cfeheley@diabetes.org
703-253-4374

On March 30, 2010, President Obama signed the final portion of the federal health care reform bill into law. 

"The enactment of health care reform is a cause  for celebration for the 23.6 million American children and adults who are living with diabetes. The new law finally tears down the wall that keeps people with diabetes from the health care they need," commented Nash Childs, PE, Chair of the Board, American Diabetes Association. 

"With the passage of health reform 'just because you have diabetes' will no longer be a lawful excuse to deny coverage, to charge exorbitant rates, or to take away care just when a person with diabetes needs it most.  It gives all Americans with diabetes a fighting chance at controlling this devastating disease before they face blindness, amputation, heart disease, and  kidney failure.

"The bill is also an essential step in the fight to stop diabetes through primary prevention using the tools we know can make a difference for the 57 million Americans with pre-diabetes and the one in three children who will end up with diabetes if our nation doesn't change course."

 

The American Diabetes Association is leading the fight to stop diabetes and its deadly consequences and fighting for those affected by diabetes. The Association funds research to prevent, cure and manage diabetes; delivers services to hundreds of communities; provides objective and credible information; and gives voice to those denied their rights because of diabetes. Founded in 1940, our mission is to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes. For more information please call the American Diabetes Association at 1-800-DIABETES (1-800-342-2383) or visit www.diabetes.org. Information from both these sources is available in English and Spanish.