Urgent Call to Extend Health Insurance Tax Credits in Pennsylvania

Access to affordable health insurance is critical for many Americans, especially those facing serious health challenges. Brittanny Groover Dilliner, a survivor of Stage 3 melanoma, has emphasized the vital role that health insurance played in her recovery. Without it, she asserts that she would not have been able to afford the lifesaving treatments that included cancer screenings, immunotherapy, and multiple surgeries.

Dilliner’s experience highlights a pressing issue in Pennsylvania as the expiration of enhanced premium tax credits looms. These tax credits, provided through Pennie, the state’s health insurance marketplace, have allowed many individuals to afford their coverage. If Congress does not act swiftly to extend these credits, the impact could be severe, particularly for those currently undergoing treatment for serious conditions like cancer.

Potential Impact on Patients

The impending expiration of these tax credits has raised alarms among health advocates. Dilliner warns that individuals relying on these credits face the prospect of skyrocketing costs when selecting health insurance plans for 2026. The financial burden could force many to compromise on necessary medical care, a situation that could have dire consequences for patients in active treatment.

“Affordable health insurance can mean the difference between life and death,” Dilliner stated, urging action from lawmakers. She specifically called on Pennsylvania Senator Dave McCormick to collaborate with his colleagues in Congress to secure an extension of these essential tax credits before it is too late.

A Call to Action for Congress

Dilliner’s plea underscores the urgency for legislative action. Many hard-working Pennsylvanians rely on these tax credits to maintain their health coverage while managing everyday expenses. The potential increase in health insurance costs could derail their ability to access necessary treatments and prescriptions that support their well-being.

The situation serves as a reminder of the intricate link between health care policy and individual health outcomes. Without intervention, the expiration of tax credits may exacerbate existing disparities in health care access, particularly among vulnerable populations.

As Congress reconvenes, the focus on health care affordability must remain a top priority. Dilliner’s story is a testament to the life-saving power of comprehensive health insurance and the critical need for lawmakers to prioritize the extension of tax credits that support countless individuals and families throughout Pennsylvania.