
Khushi Basnyat
As we live through COVID-19, our health is the greatest asset we have. Recently, I was experiencing breathing issues and immediately went to get checked out. I was able to obtain the treatment needed before my symptoms worsened. My healthcare coverage allows me to get professional medical care to maintain my well-being and prevent serious illnesses. People without healthcare coverage delay seeking professional medical care until they have a severe condition, rather than taking preventive measures. They also pay higher out-of-pocket costs and cannot afford specialized health services, such as women’s reproductive and sexual health.
The Health Equity and Access under the Law (HEAL) for Immigrant Women and Families Act, introduced by U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), increases access to affordable healthcare coverage for immigrants. The HEAL Act would provide access to Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) for documented immigrants. Undocumented immigrants (including DACA) could purchase, if eligible, subsidized health insurance plans from the Affordable Care Act’s marketplace. It also would restore Medicaid eligibility to immigrants from the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the Republic of Palau.
