Key Healthcare Insights Ahead of 2024 Election

Ceci Connolly, CEO of the Alliance of Community Health Plans, spoke at the Reuters Total Health Conference, discussing the implications of the upcoming 2024 election on the healthcare sector. She highlighted that the election poses significant stakes, particularly regarding abortion rights and drug pricing. Connolly noted that while former President Donald Trump began as a frontrunner, President Biden's withdrawal has shifted dynamics, making the upcoming period critical for Trump and the Democratic nominee, Kamala Harris, as they vie for swing states.

Connolly emphasized the potential for a divided government, suggesting it might mitigate the unpredictability in healthcare policies, ultimately resulting in fewer changes. She pointed out that the courts are becoming central to health policy making after recent rulings that will allow for challenging regulations. Moreover, she suggested that during the lame duck session, Congress may push through extensions for telehealth services and address drug pricing, given the bipartisan frustration over high costs. Connolly also noted that Harris and Trump share some similarities in their lack of strong healthcare agendas, although both will likely face public pressure on issues like drug affordability.