Biden Boosts Navigators Health Care with $500M Investment
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The Biden administration announced a $500 million investment over the next five years in the Navigators program, which assists underserved residents in accessing health care. As part of this initiative, $100 million in grants will be available from 2024. This announcement followed data from the U.S. Health and Human Services that showed uninsured rates for most underserved populations were cut by a third over the last three years.
Phoenix Resident Secures Health Coverage through Navigators Program
Cecilia Fernandez, a Phoenix resident, was at risk of losing her health care coverage after leaving employment. She needed healthcare to manage her Type 2 diabetes and other health complications. Her friend, Brenda Cardenas, the director of community programs for Adelante Healthcare, suggested the Navigators program, an initiative under the Affordable Care Act designed to assist underserved citizens in obtaining healthcare. Within weeks, Fernandez was able to secure coverage and connect with a primary care provider.
Biden Administration Announces $500M Investment in Navigators Program
This access to healthcare for Fernandez is part of a broader initiative. The Biden administration announced a $500 million investment in the Navigators program over the next five years. “When we help someone, it creates a ripple effect,” said Cardenas. “By discussing options like the marketplace, we can identify the best coverage for families.”
The government will distribute $500 million through grants over the next five years, starting with $100 million in 2024. U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra and White House Domestic Policy Council Director Neera Tanden visited Adelante Healthcare to discuss this investment and its projected impact.
Uninsured Rates Drop in Underserved Populations
The Navigators program is essential for providing healthcare access to underserved communities, a priority for President Joe Biden. “The president believes that everyone should have healthcare and that healthcare really should be a right,” said Tanden. The program’s strategy includes outreach in schools, libraries, and public spaces.
According to data from U.S. Health and Human Services, uninsured rates for most underserved populations declined by a third over the past three years. The Latino uninsured rate in Arizona dropped by 36%, with the rate for Asian American Pacific Islanders halved and the Native uninsured rate decreased by 26%.
Biden’s administration is focusing on increasing healthcare systems in schools and investing in behavioral health. “Mental health and substance use disorders need to be addressed more quickly and thoroughly,” said Becerra. The announced millions will enable more Arizonans to access healthcare and allow for more Navigators in public places.
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