Torres Hosts Healthcare Telephone Town Hall
WASHINGTON, DC – Yesterday evening, Rep. Norma J. Torres (D-Pomona) held a telephone town hall on healthcare and the Affordable Care Act to discuss the newly introduced Republican repeal plan and how it would impact Californians. She was joined on the call by Tam Ma, Legal and Policy Director for Health Access California.
"There are over 100,000 residents in the 35th District who get their insurance through the Affordable Care Act, either through Medi-Cal or through the Covered California exchange, so changes to the program will have a real impact on the lives of many in our community," said Torres. "Last night's call gave me an opportunity to give residents an update on the repeal plan that is making its way through Congress and to answer their questions about what it means for them."
A total of 3,142 individuals joined the call which lasted nearly an hour, and several participants were able to ask questions of the Congresswoman and her guest. Questions addressed the impact of the repeal plan on Medicaid and Medicare, what improvements can be made to the current Obamacare system, and what people could do to fight back against repealing the ACA. Participants who did not have their questions addressed during the call were able to leave recordings at the conclusion of the call that will be addressed by the Congresswoman individually.
"It is clear that many people in the 35th District are concerned about what changes in the Affordable Care Act will mean for them," continued Torres. "The way this bill is being rushed through Congress is very disconcerting, and I plan to do everything in my power to make sure my community is informed and knows what's at stake."
During the call, individuals facing issues with their insurance companies were encouraged to contact 1-888-466-2219, and those with questions about Covered California plans and eligibility could call 800-300-1506 for more information. They can also contact Torres's Ontario office at (909) 481-6474.
Constituents of the 35th District will also have the opportunity to take part in a general town hall meeting on March 25th in Ontario. For more information and to register, residents may visit torres.house.gov/townhall.