50 signatures reached
To: Local and State Legislators, Health Insurance Providers, Women’s Rights and Healthcare Advocacy Organizations, Healthcare Providers and Hospitals, Families
Her Health, Her Right
Hello! My name is Zuri’Elle Moore-Epps. I am a senior in high school doing a student-led action project and I am writing to express my concern about the persistently high cost of medical care for women, particularly in the areas of reproductive and maternal health. This issue impacts families across our communities and demands urgent attention and action.
Too often, women are burdened with excessive medical bills for basic health services, ranging from routine gynecological visits and contraception to prenatal care and childbirth. For many, especially women of color and low-income women, the cost barrier is not just an inconvenience; it’s a threat to their health and their lives.
One policy that takes meaningful steps toward addressing these inequities is the MOMMA’s Act (Mothers and Offspring Mortality and Morbidity Awareness Act). This legislation aims to reduce the maternal mortality rate in the U.S., which remains tragically high, particularly among Black women. The Act expands access to Medicaid postpartum coverage, funds implicit bias training for healthcare professionals, and promotes better data collection on maternal health outcomes.
But even with this, more is needed. Comprehensive reforms must address:
The lack of affordable, transparent pricing for essential women’s health services.
The gaps in insurance coverage that leave too many women underinsured or uninsured.
The disparities that leave Black, Indigenous, and other women of color at greater risk of complications or death related to childbirth.
The gaps in insurance coverage that leave too many women underinsured or uninsured.
The disparities that leave Black, Indigenous, and other women of color at greater risk of complications or death related to childbirth.
As someone who is very passionate about this cause, I urge you to support and strengthen legislation like the MOMMA’s Act and to fight for expanded access to affordable healthcare for all women. Women should not have to choose between their health and financial stability.
Why is this important?
Her Health, Her Right is a statement meant to highlight the urgent need for affordable, accessible healthcare for women. Across the country, women are forced to navigate a system that often puts their well-being second to profit. From reproductive care and maternity services to treatment for chronic illnesses, the financial burden can be overwhelming. Many delay or forgo necessary care due to high costs, leading to worsened health outcomes and increased stress. This issue doesn’t just affect physical health—it impacts emotional stability, economic opportunity, and overall quality of life. Healthcare should not be a luxury or a privilege. It’s a basic human right. This message aims to raise awareness, inspire change, and remind us that when women are denied proper care, the consequences ripple far beyond the doctor’s office.