Press Statement on
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES PASSAGE OF AFFORDABLE HEALTH CARE FOR AMERICA
ACT
By: Judith Palfrey, MD, FAAP, President, American Academy of Pediatrics

“The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), which represents 60,000
pediatricians, pediatric medical subspecialists, and surgical
specialists, commends the United States House of Representatives for its
vote to pass its health reform bill, the Affordable Health Care for
America Act (HR 3962). AAP applauds the House of Representatives for its
landmark vote and steadfast commitment to passing significant health
reform legislation this year.

“While final health reform legislation will ultimately be shaped by
bills from both chambers of Congress, the House of Representatives’
Affordable Health Care for America Act is a strong first step toward
comprehensive health reform, and includes several provisions that ensure
children will be better and not worse off as a result of health reform.
AAP commends U.S. House leadership and committee staff for their
commitment to reforming our health system, specifically the House’s
deliberate attention to ensuring that children have access to
age-appropriate benefits in a medical home.

“The House of Representatives’ important vote places us as a nation at
the closest point we have ever been to passing health reform
legislation. The Academy urges the Senate to continue the progress made
tonight and pass a final health reform bill in the coming weeks that
addresses the unique needs of children. As we stand at a defining moment
in both the history and the future of our country, we must remember our
children, who will grow up in the system we are currently working to
reform, and ensure that they have access to the services they need to
grow into the healthy, successful adults of tomorrow.”

The American Academy of Pediatrics is an organization of 60,000 primary
care pediatricians, pediatric medical subspecialists and pediatric
surgical specialists dedicated to the health, safety and well being of
infants, children, adolescents and young adults.