RALEIGH, N.C., February 17, 2023 — The North Carolina House has passed a bill to expand Medicaid, which could provide health care coverage to at least 500,000 more people in the Tar Heel state. The American Heart Association, a global force for healthier lives for all, is committed to ensuring health care is adequate, accessible, and affordable for everyone living in the United States.

The American Heart Association’s Southeast Region Board of Directors President-Elect, Dr. Sandra Burke, expressed the significance of this action in a statement: 

“Ensuring access to health insurance by expanding Medicaid has never been more important for people at risk of heart attack and stroke – about 47% of adults have high blood pressure putting them at increased risk for heart attack, stroke, heart failure, kidney disease and more. Without health care coverage, keeping blood pressure under control can be almost impossible.”

Heart disease is the number one killer of North Carolinians. For people with risk factors for cardiovascular disease or recovering from heart attack or stroke, access to affordable and adequate health insurance is a matter of life and death. Hundreds of thousands of working families, front line workers, veterans and small business owners would be able to have access to high quality, affordable healthcare, take their children to the doctor when they get sick and get the medication they need to stay healthy.

Closing the coverage gap will also help keep rural hospitals open and dramatically improve the quality of life for thousands.

This action taken by the House and its leaders sends a strong message of hope to the residents of North Carolina. As the policy moves to the Senate and discussions continue, the American Heart Association urges that the legislature take prompt action to close the coverage gap.

 

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About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for nearly a century. Connect with us on heart.orgFacebookTwitter or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.   

 

For Media Inquiries:

Christopher Mims; Christopher.Mims@heart.org  

For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)