Millions of working women and men and their families face almost insurmountable barriers to better health on a daily basis: deplorable working conditions, substandard housing and schools, and poor access to fresh and healthy meals. Each of these environmental factors takes a toll, and Americans who work long hours but earn lower wages are paying a terrible price. They're living sicker and shorter lives--and their children stand to inherit that debt if we do not take action as a country to reverse this trend.

"Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Commission to Build a Healthier America has issued recommendations that can help lead to dramatic improvements in the health of all Americans, especially those who face the greatest hurdles.

"The Commission's report offers both policymakers and the public a definitive roadmap and a way forward to building healthier communities. Their recommendations are an extremely valuable addition to the country's healthcare reform debate, and SEIU looks forward to working with the members of the Commission, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, policymakers and other stakeholders to make these proposals a reality.

"Americans can't wait any longer for national healthcare reform; it's a necessity for our economic, our national, and our individual well being. While the road to fixing our broken healthcare system begins with quality, affordable healthcare coverage, it must then continue to ensure that every American has an equal chance to lead a healthier and longer life."

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