UnitedHealth Group Statement on Enactment of SCHIP Legislation
WASHINGTON, DC (Feb. 4, 2009) – UnitedHealth Group released the following statement on the signing by President Obama of the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) legislation:
“UnitedHealth Group applauds President Barack Obama and the U.S. Congress for the enactment of legislation to reauthorize and expand the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP). With the signing of this bill, more than 4 million additional children in America will gain health insurance coverage over the next several years. Providing coverage to millions more low-income children through Medicaid and SCHIP is an important first step in our broader efforts to provide every American with access to quality and affordable health care.
A strong health care safety net has never been more important as so many Americans lose their jobs and health insurance due to the unprecedented financial crisis. A strengthened SCHIP program and additional funds for states to enroll more children in Medicaid -- coupled with passage of the economic recovery legislation now pending before Congress -- will go a long way towards bolstering the safety net during this difficult period. Additionally, these two pieces of legislation will provide a solid foundation from which to build as we pursue more comprehensive health reform in the future.”
About UnitedHealth Group
UnitedHealth Group is a diversified health and well-being company dedicated to making health care work better. Headquartered in Minneapolis, Minn., UnitedHealth Group offers a broad spectrum of products and services through six operating businesses: UnitedHealthcare, Ovations, AmeriChoice, OptumHealth, Ingenix, and Prescription Solutions. Through its family of businesses, UnitedHealth Group serves more than 70 million individuals nationwide.
