A letter from a Pennsylvania cancer survivor underscores the urgent need for Congress to extend enhanced premium tax credits that are set to expire soon. Brittanny Groover Dilliner, a Stage 3 melanoma survivor, highlights the crucial role that affordable health insurance played in her fight against cancer. Without it, she asserts, she would not have been able to afford lifesaving treatments, including immunotherapy and surgeries essential for her recovery.
Dilliner’s experience illustrates the profound impact of comprehensive health insurance on individuals facing serious health challenges. She notes that her ability to receive timely screenings and treatments was made possible through her coverage, allowing her to manage her condition while continuing to work and support her family. “Affordable health insurance gave me continued access to the prescriptions that helped me to feel well enough to work and take care of my family while battling cancer,” she stated.
As Pennsylvanians prepare for the 2026 health insurance enrollment period, the impending expiration of these tax credits raises significant concerns. According to Dilliner, many individuals depend on these credits to afford their insurance coverage, and without an extension, they may face exorbitant costs. This situation could force patients, particularly those in active treatment, to compromise their health to manage financial burdens.
Sen. Dave McCormick is urged to collaborate with his colleagues in Congress to safeguard these tax credits before they lapse. The consequences of inaction could be dire for many working-class individuals who rely on this financial assistance to maintain their health insurance. Dilliner emphasizes that this is not just a matter of policy; it can literally mean the difference between life and death for vulnerable patients.
The call for action comes at a critical time when health care accessibility is essential for many families. The stakes are high, and Dilliner’s plea serves as a reminder of the real-life implications that policy decisions can have on individuals battling serious illnesses. As the deadline approaches, the need for decisive action has never been clearer.
