16 Years of ACA: Community Voices and Concerns on Subsidy Changes

On March 23, 2026, community members gathered in downtown Davenport, Iowa, in front of Congressional offices to commemorate the 16th anniversary of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and to voice concerns about the end of pandemic-era ACA subsidies. These subsidies had previously provided vital financial relief to individuals seeking health insurance coverage.

Jay Williams, a Bettendorf resident, highlighted the challenges he faces in caring for his 12-year-old grandson, who requires ongoing medical treatments due to severe burns sustained as an infant. Williams stressed that their ability to afford necessary care is heavily dependent on publicly funded healthcare programs, including Medicaid and the ACA.

Dr. Francis Kane, a family physician in Bettendorf, noted the positive impact of the ACA on families requiring financial support for medical care. Conversely, Dr. Jake Thomas, an anesthesiologist in the Quad Cities, criticized recent legislative actions, pointing out that rising insurance premiums prevent some patients from maintaining essential health treatments.

Judith Crossett, a retired psychiatrist from the University of Iowa, emphasized the critical role of affordable healthcare in improving quality of life. She shared a story of a patient who overcame severe alcohol use disorder with the help of inpatient care and assisted living facilities.

These demonstrations highlight ongoing discussions within the healthcare sector regarding the sustainability and accessibility of health insurance programs amidst changes to subsidy policies. The debate continues over how these shifts impact both individual access to essential medical services and the broader health insurance market dynamics.

A recent AP-NORC poll reflects the public's heightened focus on healthcare priorities, underscoring its significance alongside other pressing issues such as immigration and overall cost of living concerns.