Statement from Georges C. Benjamin, MD, FACP, FACEP (E), executive director of APHA

"The American Public Health Association urges the U.S. House of Representatives to oppose a proposal that would repeal the Prevention and Public Health Fund (H.R. 1217).

"Through the Affordable Care Act, we have made a historic investment in preventing disease, protecting the nation's health and controlling cost. The fund represents the nation's first-ever long-term investment of mandatory funding for public health and prevention efforts. Today's vote would severely undermine communities across the country as they look to the fund as their first opportunity to tackle some of the deadliest and most costly public health problems.

"A sustained federal investment in prevention is good for the economy and will reap enormous returns - both in lives saved and reduced health care spending. We call on the House to not let shortsighted political wrangling take precedence over improving the public's health.

"The public health community is poised to work with Congress on protecting the fund from future efforts to rescind this critical public health investment. APHA praises the president for reaffirming his commitment to prevention by supporting the Prevention and Public Health Fund and indicating his intent to veto the measure should it arrive on his desk."

Here is a link to full statement by the executive office.

Source:
American Public Health Association