Election 08
Chronic Disease in Party Platforms
This year, both the Democratic and Republican parties recognized the critical need to reduce rising rates of chronic disease in their party platforms.
This is the first time the party platforms include specific language about how important it is to address this challenge in order to lower health care costs, improve quality of care and provide greater access to health care coverage for all Americans.
Below is language from the Republican platform:
"Chronic diseases -- in many cases, preventable
conditions -- are driving health care costs, consuming three of every four health care dollars. We can
reduce demand for medical care by fostering personal
responsibility within a culture of wellness, while
increasing access to preventive services, including
improved nutrition and breakthrough medications
that keep people healthy and out of the hospital. To
reduce the incidence of diabetes, cancer, heart disease,
and stroke, we call for a national grassroots
campaign against obesity, especially among children.
"We call for continuation of efforts to decrease use of
tobacco, especially among the young.
A culture of wellness needs to include the treatment
of mental health conditions. We believe all
Americans should have access to affordable, quality
health care, including individuals struggling with
mental illness." (Pg. 39, Republican Party Platform)
Below is language from the Democratic platform:
"Chronic diseases account for 70 percent of the
nation’s overall health care spending. We need to promote healthy lifestyles and disease
prevention and management especially with health promotion programs at work and physical education in schools. All Americans should be empowered to promote wellness and have
access to preventive services to impede the development of costly chronic conditions, such as
obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension. Chronic-care and behavioral health management should be assured for all Americans who require care coordination. This includes
assistance for those recovering from traumatic, life-altering injuries and illnesses as well as those
with mental health and substance use disorders. We should promote additional tobacco and
substance abuse prevention." (Pg. 11, Democratic Party Platform)
"Challenge to Candidates"
Early in 2008, the PFCD issued a "Challenge to Candidates" to address chronic disease in their health care plans. Presidential candidates from both parties shared their views on chronic disease prevention and management.
Share It
