CHICAGO — American Medical Association (AMA) President Andrew W. Gurman, M.D., released the following statement today after the U.S. House of Representatives passed the American Health Care Act:

“The bill passed by the House today will result in millions of Americans losing access to quality, affordable health insurance and those with pre-existing health conditions face the possibility of going back to the time when insurers could charge them premiums that made access to coverage out of the question. Action is needed, however, to improve the current health care insurance system. The AMA urges the Senate and the Administration to work with physician, patient, hospital and other provider groups to craft bipartisan solutions so all American families can access affordable and meaningful coverage, while preserving the safety net for vulnerable populations.”

**Editor’s Note:

In January, the AMA released its health system reform objectives — primary among them that people who currently have insurance should not become uninsured — and shared them with Members of Congress. Last month, the AMA urged Congress to oppose the AHCA. Additionally, the “Envisioning Health Reform” series on AMA Wire looks deeper at the essential issues in the health system reform debate and provides updates on health reform discussions in Congress.

Last month, the AMA launched a website, patientsbeforepolitics.org, aimed at encouraging physicians and patients to join the effort to increase access to affordable, meaningful coverage for all Americans. The interactive site provides the latest information on health system reform legislation moving through Congress, as well as the AMA’s efforts to shape the future of U.S. health care.