I own a small business that helps cancer patients. I know the importance of having comprehensive, affordable health insurance. Several of my employees — some cancer patients — rely on Marketplace plans made more affordable by enhanced premium tax credits. These health care tax credits allow them to stay healthy and continue serving patients.
Nationwide, nearly half of adults with Marketplace coverage are small-business owners, employees of small businesses or self-employed individuals. That is true in Utah, where these enhanced health care tax credits often make the difference between coverage and going uninsured. For many, this is the only affordable option for good health coverage.
The enhanced premium tax credits expire at the end of the year without action from Congress. With open enrollment underway, Utahns are seeing premium spikes for next year. Without the enhanced health care tax credits, coverage will be out of reach for many — particularly cancer patients. Delayed treatment can be life-threatening.
I raised this issue with Sen. John Curtis at a recent town hall, and I am urging him and Rep. Moore to work with Congress to extend these tax credits now. If they don’t, Utah faces a health care crisis.
Catherine Standiford
Volunteer, American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN)
Salt Lake City