I strongly support policies that increase access to health care for all individuals. I believe that our health care system must be better managed and that dollars spent on health care must be used in an efficient way.

Increase Access to Affordable Health Care:

In Rhode Island, we have seen firsthand the need for oversight of private health insurance carriers. I firmly believe that the federal government has a responsibility to ensure that all Americans have access to affordability and choice in their health care coverage. I am committed to the goal of a health care system that leaves no one out – universal health coverage can be achieved if the leaders of our country make it a real priority.

As a Member of Congress, I drafted legislation that would guarantee every American a variety of health insurance options. My proposal represents a new vision for health care – a system of portable and continuous coverage based on quality, affordability and choice that promotes investment in long-term prevention and drives down the cost of care over time.

Strengthen Existing Health Coverage:

Too many Americans currently go without health care because they are uninsured or underinsured. We must make it a national priority to reach underserved communities and populations that lack access to proper health care. In the absence of universal health coverage, we must ensure the quality of existing employer-based coverage and public programs that provide for so many families. I pledge to continue to be a voice for improved access to health coverage for all individuals, increased federal commitment to state Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Programs and a strong and sustainable Medicare program.

Research Investment:

From the research centers of the Veteran’s Administration to the projects undertaken by the National Institutes of Health, the federal government plays a major role in ensuring that Americans continue to acquire new knowledge to help prevent, detect, diagnose, and treat disease and disability. In order to capitalize on the tremendous advances in medical research of recent years, it is critical that the federal government maintain a strong investment in research that can help to prevent and treat many chronic conditions at an earlier stage, saving lives and the country billions of dollars in health care costs.