Issue Position: Healthcare

Issue Position

I believe that healthcare is a universal right. Regardless of income or location, every North Carolinian is entitled to basic healthcare.

I understand that healthcare outcomes are best when care decisions are made between a patient and their medical provider. This means that every person should be able to choose their own physician, without interference from the government or health insurance companies.

When it comes to healthcare, lowering out-of-pocket costs is my number one goal. This means getting more families covered and one way to do this is through the expansion of Medicaid, under the Affordable Care Act. Medicaid expansion will also help our economy by supporting rural hospitals and providing jobs to many in those areas. It will provide healthcare in areas of our state where we most need additional coverage and more medical providers.

Prescription drug companies hold a monopoly in our state and country. Currently, local and state governments are prohibited from negotiating drug prices. I want to change that to help all North Carolinians access the critical prescriptions they need, without adding more financial burdens.

Seniors and persons with disabilities deserve to live at home, with their family, where they are most comfortable, for as long as practical. That's why I support alternative healthcare deliveries that will allow this. As a long time Meals on Wheels volunteer, I understand the dignity that comes with being able to live at home. Many of my longtime clients are elderly men and women who rely on the services of others to allow them to remain in their residences, where they feel most comfortable. Preventing elderly neglect and abuse is an additional area of importance for those that may not be able to speak out for themselves.

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