Lowering the Cost of Healthcare
Healthcare remains one of the most pressing challenges facing American families today. In Kansas, nearly 20% of residents currently have medical debt in collections. Many Kansans face such steep deductibles and copays that a single medical emergency could lead to financial ruin. As a physician, Barbara has witnessed firsthand the barriers patients encounter when seeking care.
Since entering public service in 2009, Barbara has earned recognition as a health policy expert dedicated to pragmatic solutions. With healthcare premiums and prescription drug costs straining household budgets, Barbara has spent seven years leading efforts to expand Medicaid, providing affordable coverage to 130,000 additional Kansans while bolstering local hospitals.
As the ranking member on the Senate Public Health and Welfare Committee, she has been a steadfast advocate for patient protections, including drafting and introducing legislation to combat surprise medical billing in Kansas. Barbara supports giving Americans the choice to retain their private insurance while also providing an affordable public option for those seeking alternatives.
Drawing on her experience as a doctor, Medicaid expansion advocate, and patient ally in the legislature, Barbara is ready to be the healthcare champion Kansans need. As the first woman physician in the U.S. Senate, she will:
- Advocate for a public health insurance option, ensuring Kansans have affordable choices while maintaining access to private insurance for those who prefer it;
- Protect the 465,000 non-elderly Kansans with pre-existing conditions from partisan threats and special interest attacks;
- Preserve and fully fund Medicaid and Medicare for future generations;
- Push for common-sense prescription drug reforms, including federal negotiations to reduce costs;
- Eliminate surprise medical billing practices;
- Strengthen rural hospitals and clinics to ensure access to essential services in smaller communities.
Cleaning up Washington
America’s political system is in desperate need of reform. For too long, corporate lobbyists, special interest groups, and career politicians have exploited the dysfunction in Washington for personal and financial gain. Barbara has spent her career reflecting on the responsibilities of those entrusted with public service, from doctors to elected leaders.
As a bioethics educator at Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences, Barbara emphasized the importance of integrity and accountability. In the Kansas State Legislature, she put those principles into action by sponsoring legislation to close the revolving door between government roles and lobbying firms.
The Supreme Court’s Citizens United decision has fueled an influx of dark money into politics, allowing corporate-funded special interest groups to influence elections behind closed doors. Barbara believes in a democracy where campaigns are transparent and decided by the people, not anonymous donors.
In the Senate, Barbara will:
- Advocate for stricter policies to curb the transition of government officials into lobbying roles;
- Support a constitutional amendment to overturn Citizens United and ban corporate money in politics;
- Collaborate across party lines to pass campaign finance reforms that promote transparency in elections.
Strengthening Rural Prosperity
Kansas’s rural communities have been integral to the state’s identity since its founding. However, many of the state’s 105 counties have faced population decline for over a century. Despite this, rural Kansas continues to make significant contributions to agriculture, energy, and the broader economy.
Barbara understands that rural families deserve equal opportunities to thrive. To revitalize rural Kansas, it’s essential to invest in infrastructure, attract young residents, and support economic growth. Reliable roads and high-speed internet are especially vital for rural economies, enabling businesses, healthcare providers, and schools to succeed while attracting younger generations. Reforming the U.S. Postal Service is also essential to maintaining critical services.
As a proponent of Medicaid expansion, Barbara recognizes its importance for ensuring affordable healthcare access and sustaining rural hospitals. Expanding Medicaid not only improves health outcomes but also boosts local economies. Additionally, addressing housing and childcare affordability is essential for growing communities.
In the U.S. Senate, Barbara will prioritize:
- Supporting agriculture and green energy initiatives;
- Expanding Medicaid and safeguarding Medicare;
- Investing in high-speed broadband for rural areas;
- Promoting affordable housing and childcare for families;
- Protecting the role of the U.S. Postal Service in serving rural communities.
Barbara’s commitment to healthcare, ethics, and rural prosperity reflects the values Kansans hold dear. She’s ready to bring this vision to the Senate and work toward a brighter future for all.
