This week, we asked readers if they were concerned about the impact on their families and themselves of the impending cuts to health care. As reported, in November, amid the recent federal government shutdown, according to CBS News, the U.S. House of Representatives approved a funding package, extending funding for most agencies until Jan. 30, which includes three full-year funding bills for parts of the government.

 

CBS reported that most House Democrats opposed the legislation since it did not address the expiring health care tax credits that were at the center of their party’s shutdown demands. As part of the deal with Republicans, the outlet reported that Senate Democrats were reportedly promised a further vote on the issue by mid-December.

 

On Dec. 17, as reported by The Guardian, four Republicans joined with the Democrats to sign a petition forcing a vote on legislation that will extend for three years premium tax credits for Affordable Care Act healthcare plans. The Guardian reported that the bill will probably come up for a vote in January, after Congress returns from its holiday recess.

 

“I am really concerned about that because I’ve got people with diabetes and stuff like that in my family who rely on health care of course. Since diabetes runs in the family, I could possibly be affected by it and someday I would need Medicaid, and they’re making cuts like this. It makes no sense to do so. I blame the blind people who are leaning to [U.S. President Donald] Trump, because Trump is making all these unnecessary cuts. Especially during times like this, a lot of people are relying on economic help.”

Juan Naba,

Bedford Park

“I’m scared for my kids, especially my daughter. It’s definitely going to affect people. It’s just sad because it’s the most important thing. You know (U.S. Sen.) Bernie Sanders is always talking about health care for infants and those types of things.”

Steve Bobker,

Van Cortlandt Village

 

“Cuts to health care puts lives at risk in our communities. Health care should not be optional; it’s essential. Slashing medical and mental health services will only deepen inequality and harm the people who already face the greatest barrier to care. We should be expanding access, not taking it away. Health care is a human right, and we must protect it.”

Wilfredo Hierrezuelo,

Soundview

“House Speaker Mike Johnson says he won’t call a vote to extend enhanced subsidies under the Affordable Care Act, effectively guaranteeing they will expire at the end of this month. That means higher insurance premiums will go into effect for millions of Americans who get coverage through Obamacare next year. All of the Republicans have aligned and boxed themselves into damaging anyone whose income is not above $300,000; they have absolutely no concern for anyone who is not wealthy, and whose health will be damaged by increased health care costs.”

Robert Kalfus,

Yonkers, N.Y., formerly of Riverdale

 

“With the current state of health care as it is, and the lack of choices for folks currently on public insurance, Medicaid, and without having private insurance, there are very few places for one to go to where they are able to have services that uphold their dignity, that are compassionate, and that come with healthy bedside manner, and customer service and overall professionalism. What’s going on right now is a nightmare as this will further hyper-marginalize folks who require assistance right now to have a better quality of life.”

Felix Guzman,

Crown Heights, Brooklyn