Under HHS regulations issued today, new insurance plans will be required to provide free preventive care starting September 23, 2010

Washington, DC - Today, the Department of Health and Human Services issued a list of preventive healthcare services required in new insurance plans under the Affordable Care Act. Service Employees International Union (SEIU) President Mary Kay Henry released the following statement:

"Mammograms. Blood pressure, cancer and diabetes screenings. Pre-natal care. For too long, these vital preventive healthcare services have been out of reach for hardworking women and men whose insurance companies cut corners at the expense of their customers' well-being.

"Today, the Obama Administration issued rules for insurance companies because no hardworking family should have to choose between paying the bills and getting flu shots and vaccinations for their kids.

"Making sure insurance companies can't deny preventive care is another example of how the landmark healthcare reform bill is transforming our sick-care system to a healthcare system that puts quality, affordable care within reach of all Americans."

With 2.2 million members in Canada, the United States and Puerto Rico, SEIU is the fastest-growing union in the Americas. Focused on uniting workers in healthcare, public services and property services, SEIU members are winning better wages, healthcare and more secure jobs for our communities, while uniting their strength with their counterparts around the world to help ensure that workers--not just corporations and CEOs--benefit from today's global economy.

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