August is Civic Health Month and a great time to reflect on the importance of addressing health disparities through civic engagement. 

The 2024 General Election is shaping up to be historic with Vice President Kamala Harris (Democrat) and former President Donald Trump (Republican) emerging as their respective party’s nominees. In addition, majority control of the House of Representatives will remain competitive for both parties, and the Senate has 34 seats up for election out of 100. 

Health care issues play a significant role in campaigns because of the deeply personal nature of this policy issue, and the significant impact on voters’ daily lives. According to the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services, health care expenses represent 17.3% of America’s gross domestic product (GDP), and its cost is a top concern for many Americans. 

Reproductive health is a major policy issue in the 2024 election, with both presidential candidates holding sharply contrasting views on this issue. Their differing stances will influence the national debate and voter decisions.

Additionally, regardless of what happens at the federal level, it will be up to elected leaders in the State of California to safeguard rights and critical funding for our communities. Who we elect at the state level will make key decisions on how health care is funded and prioritized, as they work with the Governor on the 2025 budget. 

At the local level, Boards of Supervisors and city governments throughout the state will decide the distribution of behavioral health funding because of the passage of Proposition 1 in addition to making key decisions on green spaces, libraries, affordable housing, and transportation, amongst other Social Determinants of Health. Who we elect at the local level must reflect the priorities and values of the communities we serve.

The 2024 General Election will be held on Tuesday, November 5. Here are some key dates to keep in mind:  

• The last day to register to vote is October 21. 
• In case you miss the deadline, you can register to vote the same day, known as “Conditional Voter Registration.” 
• Ballots will be mailed to all registered voters starting October 7. Remember you can return your ballot by mail (no need for a stamp, and don’t forget to sign the envelope!), drop off your ballot at an official ballot drop off box, or vote in person. 

For counties participating in Voter’s Choice, early vote centers will open on Saturday, October 26, through Tuesday, November 5. AltaMed will once again host multiple vote centers in Los Angeles and Orange Counties, providing voters the opportunity to vote in person or drop off their ballot. To learn more about AltaMed vote center locations visit https://myvotemyhealth.org/flexvote.

Outcomes of the 2024 election will significantly impact health care in the United States, here’s how.

Health Care Access and Coverage 

The 2024 election could reshape health care access and insurance coverage. Different candidates propose various approaches, from expanding the Affordable Care Act to introducing new public options or moving towards a single-payer system. These changes could affect millions of Americans, determining who can access affordable health care. 

In a historic first, Proposition 35, the Patient Protection Act, which gives voters the power to vote on their health, is on the ballot. Your vote can determine how billions in healthcare funding are invested for decades to come. This initiative would increase access to care and reduce wait times by investing in California’s most trusted and under-resourced medical providers, including family and specialty care doctors, nurses, and community health workers. With your vote, you can send a message of what matters most to you when it comes to your health.

Prescription Drug Prices

Rising prescription drug prices remain a critical issue for many Americans. Some policymakers advocate for stronger regulations and measures to control these costs, including expanding the government’s authority to negotiate drug prices on behalf of Medicare. Recent legislation, such as the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, includes provisions for Medicare to negotiate prices for certain high-cost drugs, which is a significant step toward reducing prescription costs. The outcome of future elections could further impact these measures, potentially making medications more affordable or expensive depending on the policies implemented by elected officials. 

Women's Health and Reproductive Rights  

Women's health and reproductive rights are often central topics in elections. Policies regarding access to reproductive health services, including contraception and abortion, vary widely among candidates. Recent developments, such as the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade in 2022, have led to significant changes in reproductive rights at both federal and state levels. The 2024 election will likely impact the availability and regulation of these services across the country. At the state level, who we elect to the state legislature will play a crucial role in safeguarding or restricting access and funding for reproductive health services.

Behavioral Health and Substance Abuse 

Behavioral health and substance use disorders continue to be a pressing issue. Candidates' stances on funding for behavioral health services, opioid addiction treatment, and overall mental health care infrastructure could lead to significant improvements or setbacks in how these services are delivered and accessed.  In California, voters made their voices heard earlier this year by passing Proposition 1, which amends California’s Mental Health Services Act (MHSA), and authorizes $6.4 billion in funding for behavioral health treatment and housing for those at risk of homelessness. The MHSA reform changes how communities access services at the county level and increases housing supports. As implementation efforts move forward, we must make sure that the most impacted communities are able to access these critical services and all barriers to access are removed. 

Health Equity 

Health equity is the idea that all people should be able to live a healthy life, regardless of factors like race, gender identity, zip code or income. For the communities we serve to be healthy, we need to address Social and Political Determinants of Health that perpetuate health inequalities. This and in every election at all levels candidates will have a distinct view when it comes to health equity and how they address it. 

Get Involved and Make Your Voice Heard 

Civic Health Month emphasizes the power of your vote and the importance of civic participation. By understanding the health care policies at stake and engaging in electoral discussions, you can make your voice heard in the 2024 election. This process can shape a system that meets the needs of all Americans. 

Community Health Centers have a unique role in contributing towards health equity for the communities they serve. AltaMed is once again at the forefront of this movement through the My Vote. My Health.™ campaign, including its expansion statewide with the California Primary Care Association, which would leverage the reach of 7.4 million patients who receive services at community health centers in California. 

For this Civic Health Month, let's improve the health of our communities by engaging in this election and electing leaders and voting on measures that will shape healthcare policies.  Visit MyVoteMyHealth.org for information about the upcoming election and to download tools and resources.