Douglas Shirley, Chief Financial Officer, signed the symbolic pledge on behalf of Cooper University Health Care, to help Camden residents get the health care coverage now available to them through the Affordable Care Act.
On the day that the Affordable Care Act (ACA) expanded health coverage, officials from Cooper University Health Care joined with other leaders and health care providers and community leaders at a rally to pledge its commitment to helping Camden residents obtain the health insurance available to them.
Beginning October 1, 2013, the ACA allowed individuals without health insurance to obtain coverage through marketplace exchanges or expanded Medicaid eligibility. While these new options are now available, there is concern that some underserved residents may not be aware of the programs available to them.
The “Get Camden Covered” rally, held at the Volunteers of America-Aletha Wright Shelter in Camden, brought together representatives from the Camden Coalition of Healthcare Providers, Camden Churches Organized for People, AARP and Volunteers of America along with leaders from all Camden-based hospitals and federally funded health clinics to show their solidarity in helping residents understand their options and obtain health coverage. All pledged to provide ongoing education and outreach.
In addition to several senior leaders, members of Cooper’s Urban Health Institute also attended. The Urban Health Institute studies, identifies and develops innovative solutions to reduce barriers to care and improve quality while lowering costs. Recently, the Institute launched the Cooper Advanced Care Center, a new multi-specialty practice focused on meeting the needs of Camden patients.