U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra addressed several topics while in Atlanta Monday.
During a morning news conference with U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff, Secretary Becerra discussed a new law that caps the cost of insulin for seniors, and for those on Medicare at $35 a month. He called it "life changing" for those that "need it most," especially those on a fixed income. The law went into effect on January 1. Ossoff and the Biden Administration official met with seniors and community leaders in Gwinnett County. The meeting was held at Ser Familia in Norcross.
Insulin is used to treat diabetes, which according to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, is currently diagnosed in one in three Medicare beneficiaries.
Monday afternoon, Becerra participated in a forum held at The Gathering Spot in northwest Atlanta. Becerra listened to and discussed health equity and related issues covered in the Urban League of Greater Atlanta's State of Black Georgia report.
According to Nancy Flake Johnson, President and CEO of the Urban League of Greater Atlanta, "To tackle the life-threatening health disparities and issues facing Black Georgians we uncovered in the Urban League of GreaterAtlanta’s State of Black Georgia report, it is vitally important that we have access to leaders with authority to impact positive change, who are willing to listen, share and work together to improve health outcomes and access to affordable care."
Click below to hear Urban League of Greater Atlanta President and CEO Nancy Flake Johnson discuss the findings of the State of Black Georgia report
Johnson goes on to say, "the fact that Secretary Becerra, who is responsible for Health & Human Services in our country was willing to come to Atlanta to engage in a Community Conversation means we have a path forward to bring better care to Black Georgian families and all Georgian families. The Urban League is excited about expanding our partnership with the DHHS Regional Director Antrell Tyson and his team to move the needle on this life-saving issue."
While in Atlanta, Becerra also reiterated his stance on an abortion pill ruling. He has called the decision by a Texas judge, that would threaten the availability of the abortion medication mifepristone, as "not America", adding that he expects the ruling to be overturned.