WASHINGTON, D.C. – Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05), co-chair of the House Rural Health Care Coalition, released the following statement reacting to Washington state’s proposed premium increases.  The state’s rate proposals came just days after Premera Blue Cross and LifeWise Health Plan of Washington announced their withdrawal from more than a dozen counties in Washington State, including four in Eastern Washington.

“These announcements are a major blow to families across Eastern Washington, particularly those in rural communities,” said McMorris Rodgers. “Unfortunately, these rate increases and cancelled plans are the result of the top-down, one-size-fits-all health care law coming from Washington, D.C.  In fact, this government-knows-best policy is creating an environment that makes it difficult for providers to offer the care patients need and insurers to provide coverage for at times live saving care, resulting in dropped coverage and higher premiums across Eastern Washington and the rest of the country.

“My aim is to provide the highest-quality healthcare – to the greatest number of people – at the lowest possible cost. We are reminded that the goal must be to protect the sacred space between patients and their doctors.  I will continue to meet with local leaders and stakeholders as we move forward. If anyone has any concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact my office.”

Note: This week, McMorris Rodgers and the Republican members of the Washington congressional delegation sent a letter to Washington State Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler expressing deep concerns with the significant changes to the Washington State health insurance market for 2017. Full text of the letter may be found here.