My daughter Dianne passed away at the age of 45 due to complications related to kidney failure, or End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD). Anyone who has lost a child knows the indescribable loss I experienced. However, few people understand the financial burdens ESRD patients face in addition to managing their health.
I am extremely grateful that Medicare, combined with the benefits provided by the state of Pennsylvania, covered the bulk of Dianne’s healthcare expenses. Other patients, though, rely on employer-provided private insurance to cover their health care costs, especially in the beginning months of care before switching to Medicare.
Yet, a recent Supreme Court decision opened the door for private insurers to weaken coverage for new dialysis patients. It could be devastating for patients who may have to stress about their insurance coverage instead of focusing on maintaining their health. That’s why Congressman Mike Kelly (R-PA) is the lead sponsor and champion who introduced the Restore Protections for Dialysis Patients Act. I want to thank him for his leadership on this issue and urge the other Pennsylvania Members of Congress to join in support of this bipartisan legislation.
Rebecca Pratt, North East, Pennsylvania
