President Joe Biden is positioning his healthcare record and promises as key factors in his bid for reelection, recognizing the significant importance voters place on healthcare issues.
Voter Priorities and Biden’s Address
A recent poll by KFF revealed that 80% of voters across party lines expect presidential candidates to discuss their healthcare plans, indicating the centrality of healthcare in electoral decision-making. With medical costs ranking among Americans’ top financial concerns, Biden addressed key healthcare achievements and future plans in his State of the Union speech.
Accomplishments and Promises
Biden highlighted his achievements in Medicare and Medicaid expansion, lower drug prices, and reproductive healthcare access, aligning with voter priorities.
Expansion of Healthcare Access
Under Biden’s presidency, efforts to expand healthcare coverage have included:
- The 2022 Inflation Reduction Act, which extended benefits for Medicare recipients, including a cap on out-of-pocket drug costs and reduced healthcare premium costs through a tax credit system.
- Expanded eligibility for healthcare coverage for millions of veterans exposed to toxins or hazards during service, following the 2022 PACT Act.
Prescription Drug Price Reduction
The Biden Administration has undertaken negotiations with pharmaceutical companies to lower the prices of several major prescription drugs, including insulin. Additionally, plans are underway to negotiate lower prices for a broader range of medications under Medicare.
Reproductive Healthcare
Biden reiterated his support for reproductive rights, affirming his commitment to protecting abortion access. While pledging to veto federal abortion bans, Biden faces criticism for perceived past reluctance on the issue. Nevertheless, he has urged the US Supreme Court to safeguard access to medication abortion, with recent FDA certification allowing mifepristone to be dispensed at major retailers.
Future Directions
Looking ahead, Biden called for further action, including empowering Medicare to negotiate lower prices for a wider array of drugs and safeguarding IVF access following legislative challenges.
Conclusion
Biden’s healthcare record and promises, as outlined in his State of the Union address, reflect efforts to address voter concerns and prioritize healthcare access and affordability. As the 2024 election approaches, healthcare is likely to remain a central issue, shaping voter perceptions and electoral outcomes.
