First Biden-Harris Executive Orders on Health Care

Today, the Biden-Harris Administration issued their first executive orders and presidential memorandums addressing access to health care, including reproductive health care. President and CEO Dr. Jamila Perritt responded:

"Today's actions of rescinding the global gag rule and taking the important first step of undoing the harmful domestic gag rule are critical for patients accessing health care in the U.S. and around the world. The domestic gag rule forbidding discussion of abortion put Title X providers in an untenable position - withhold vital information and violate professional ethics or leave the program. Pregnant people need accurate information about their options and referrals right away. No one should be denied information, no matter where they're receiving care, their source of insurance, their income, or the health care services needed-especially time sensitive care like pregnancy care.

I look forward to the additional steps that the Biden-Harris administration will take to protect and expand access to health care, including reproductive health care.

"We are pleased to see the Biden-Harris administration opening a special enrollment period to provide people needing health care coverage during the pandemic an opportunity to sign-up and will direct agencies to re-examine policies that undermine Medicaid and reduce access to coverage. These executive orders are welcome news for patients.

"This is just the beginning. I look forward to the additional steps that the Biden-Harris administration will take to protect and expand access to health care, including reproductive health care. We call on the administration to omit harmful coverage bans on abortion care like the Hyde Amendment in the Presidential budget, remove medically unnecessary restrictions on medication abortion, continue to restore the Affordable Care Act and expand its reach to provide communities equitable, fair health care coverage, and act swiftly to get communities the COVID-19 relief they need.

"That is why we call on Congress and the Administration to implement the Blueprint for Reproductive Health, Rights and Justice, a comprehensive and proactive policy agenda endorsed by more than 100 bold, progressive organizations.

"The last four years have been incredibly harmful when it comes to health care, racial justice, immigrant rights, LGBTQ rights, and many other issues. It will take time and work to reverse the damage and improve outcomes for all people. As physician advocates we are excited to partner with the Biden-Harris administration to achieve our vision of a world where people can access care they need regardless of their zip code, income level, or source of insurance."