TFAH Statement on the Braidwood Management v. Becerra Case

 

 

(Washington, DC – March 30, 2023) – Trust for America’s Health (TFAH) is deeply concerned about the recent ruling in the Braidwood Management v. Becerra case. This decision could restrict millions of Americans’ access to free preventive services that save lives and reduce healthcare costs. As a non-partisan public health policy, research, and advocacy organization dedicated to health promotion and disease prevention, we know the evidence shows that access to prevention is critical for the health and well-being of individuals and families. Coverage of preventive services without patient cost sharing means doctors detect cancers earlier. It means people get the help they need to quit smoking, families receive obesity prevention counseling, and health care providers can screen for behavioral health concerns like depression. Research shows that out-of-pocket costs are a barrier for people to receive life-saving preventive services, and they are an important tool for reducing health disparities. Our nation spends trillions of dollars on treating disease, but only a small fraction of those dollars are used to prevent people from getting sick in the first place. If this decision stands, it will be a step backward for the goal of achieving optimal health for every person and community.