As the 2024 presidential election approaches, healthcare policy has become a significant issue for voters.
Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump have contrasting visions for the future of healthcare in the United States, particularly regarding the Affordable Care Act (ACA), reproductive rights, and prescription drug pricing.
Kamala Harris is committed to strengthening the ACA and extending enhanced subsidies. She also supports expanding Medicare to cover home health care, vision, and hearing services. In contrast, Donald Trump has criticized the ACA and has not provided specific details on a replacement plan. His running mate, J.D. Vance, has suggested a strategy that could potentially raise premiums for those with preexisting conditions.
Reproductive rights are also a significant issue in the election. Harris aims to restore Roe v. Wade and protect access to abortion and reproductive healthcare. Trump believes abortion decisions should be left to the states and has made mixed statements on IVF treatments and contraceptives.
Prescription drug pricing is another contentious topic. Harris played a role in passing the Inflation Reduction Act, which allows negotiation of drug prices. Republicans, including Trump, have criticized this initiative. Harris also focuses on reforming pharmacy benefit managers, while Trump has not outlined a clear plan for PBM reform. Both candidates have claimed credit for capping insulin copays at $35.
The candidates' positions on these healthcare issues will be closely examined by voters as they make their decisions in the upcoming election.