Trending News Today: Trump Discusses Healthcare Reform in Address to Congress

Last night, in his first address to Congress, President Donald Trump outlined certain principles he plans to incorporate into a replacement plan for the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Trump included principles that would reduce medical malpractice suits, and increase insurance sales across state lines, but health experts do not believe this plan will reduce costs, the Los Angeles Times reported. Trump also told Congress that the new law should ensure that individuals with preexisting conditions continue to have access to health coverage.

Republican lawmakers, including House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI), have expressed support for portable health insurance that could travel with an individual who moves or changes jobs, according to Kaiser Health News. This would ensure that Americans have access to the same health plans without worrying about losing coverage or a potential premium increase for a new plan. However, portability may be challenging to implement because the healthcare system is not structured in a way that allows expansive access to hospitals, physicians, or other healthcare providers.

During the 2008 to 2012 recession, researchers found a significant decline in new cases of cancer among those who live in California. Cancer rates were seen to plummet for both sexes, even as the Baby Boomer generation approached an age where cancer is more common. While this may seem like a positive change, it is likely because individuals who lost their jobs or health insurance were unable to afford routine cancer screenings or primary care visits, California Healthline reported.