With all of the talk going around on health care policy reforms, I believe it’s critically important to frame the debate around the hundreds of millions of Americans who currently have the health insurance they need — and want. The choice to remain on current coverage, including through your employer, must be preserved. In doing so, we can allow health plans to continue providing quality, affordable benefits to patients nationwide.

My mom receives health care coverage through her employer, and, thanks to the Affordable Care Act, I am covered under her insurance as well. Even though I am young and have fortunately avoided any significant use of the health care system, I recognize the value in the reliability and affordability of my family’s coverage. The longevity of our health care community is important to me and so many other young Minnesotans as we continue on our lives here in this great state.

Minnesotans in our area are fortunate to have Jim Hagedorn as our representative in the U.S. Congress. Since taking office, Congressman Hagedorn has supported the health care community in their efforts to build on the existing system, protect patients from rising prescription drug costs, and allow health plans to continue delivering quality care through employer-provided coverage. There is still more work to be done, but I am confident that Congressman Hagedorn will continue to promote the affordability and accessibility of health care for Minnesotans throughout his time in office.

Spencer Krier

Glenville