Washington, DC – Americans for Democratic Action announced today plans to participate in the National Women’s Law Center campaign “Being a woman is not a pre-existing condition.”

On November 4th in Washington DC, ADA members will offer stories and testimonies about health care from noon to 12:30 in Dupont Circle.  The rally will take place all day from 9am-9pm.

“Health care reform has been debated in Congress since September. Yet the needs of women have largely been ignored,” said Michael J. Wilson, ADA National Director.

“Health care reform is essential. We need fair, affordable and comprehensive health care that addresses the disparities and discrimination women face in getting care.

“Women who buy health coverage directly from insurance companies face unfair and discriminatory practices.  Because of “gender rating,” women are often charged more than men for the same coverage, making insurance unaffordable for some women,” said Wilson.

ADA National Board Member Cheryl Kagan said:  “Women spend a larger percentage of their income on health care insurance since, on average, women earn 30% less than men.

“Added to that, many reproductive health needs fall into the pre-existing condition category.  If a woman previously had a caesarean section, insurers can refuse to pay for the procedure in the future or reject her application for coverage outright.

“In some states, domestic violence, even rape, is considered a pre-existing condition and insurers can decline coverage.

“We all women we love: our mothers, our sisters, our daughters, our friends.  It’s time to fight for fight for them,” said Kagan.