As we approach Election Day, one issue stands out for families across the Rio Grande Valley: healthcare. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) has been crucial for many in our community, giving basic coverage where there was none. But, let's be honest—there’s still a ways to go. High premiums, limited choices, and coverage gaps make it clear the ACA isn’t fully working for everyone. This election is a chance for us to demand adjustments that meet the Valley’s unique needs—without adding billions in new spending.
Our community faces one of the highest uninsured rates in the country. Many of our neighbors work hard in jobs without health benefits and rely on the ACA marketplace, or if they qualify, on Texas Medicaid. Unfortunately, Texas is one of the few states that hasn’t expanded Medicaid, leaving thousands in a “coverage gap.” These folks make too much to qualify for Medicaid but too little to afford ACA premiums, and this hits the Valley especially hard. There are cost-effective solutions in reach, though, and this is our moment to push for them.
One straightforward solution is allowing the federal government to negotiate drug prices with manufacturers. Here in the Valley, where conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure are common, high medication costs aren’t just a burden—they’re a barrier to health. By negotiating drug prices, we could bring down costs across the board, so fewer people have to make the tough choice between meds and other necessities.
Telehealth is another opportunity. During the pandemic, it became a lifeline, especially in rural areas. Expanding telehealth access means more people can see specialists without long drives or high costs. Public-private partnerships could expand this infrastructure across the Valley, saving money and making healthcare more accessible—all without increasing federal spending.
We should also reconsider how we deliver care. Our community faces high rates of chronic disease that often lead to costly ER visits. By shifting to a system that pays providers based on patient outcomes instead of service volume, we could encourage more preventive care and keep people healthier overall. Value-based care rewards providers for improving health outcomes, which could lead to a healthier community and reduce costs over time.
Another improvement is simple transparency in insurance. Right now, navigating insurance options can feel like solving a riddle. Requiring insurers to provide clear, upfront information about costs and coverage would empower Valley residents to make informed choices. This transparency could drive competition and bring down premiums—all at no additional cost to taxpayers.
Medicaid expansion remains critical. Texas’s decision not to expand Medicaid has left thousands without coverage, even though federal policymakers could offer incentives to support expansion without new federal spending. Redirecting funds or giving states more flexibility could make a big difference, helping our community secure much-needed coverage without burdening taxpayers.
Healthcare access in rural areas is another priority. Long drives and wait times should not be barriers to care. Offering tax incentives to providers willing to practice in underserved areas could increase access without significant government spending.
Expanding Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) could also help families manage costs. With expanded tax incentives for employer-sponsored HSAs, more people could save for healthcare expenses, easing some of the ACA’s financial strain.
We also need to address healthcare fraud and waste. The billions lost to fraud every year could be reallocated to improve coverage and care. For a region where resources are already stretched thin, every dollar counts.
Preventive care is another area where we can get creative. Imagine community health programs that provide free screenings for diabetes, hypertension, and more—backed by public-private partnerships. Catching issues early keeps people out of the ER and reduces costs, and local partnerships could make this possible without a heavy federal price tag.
Lastly, Texas could consider reinsurance programs to help stabilize premiums.
Reinsurance helps cover high-cost claims, which could make coverage more affordable across the Valley. Section 1332 waivers would allow Texas to implement these changes without new federal funding.
The Rio Grande Valley deserves healthcare that truly serves its needs. We all see the toll high costs and limited coverage take on our families and neighbors. This election gives us a chance to advocate for real change. Let’s ask our candidates the tough questions: Do they support drug price negotiation? Medicaid expansion? Plans to improve rural healthcare access? These aren’t partisan issues; they’re essential for our quality of life.
On Election Day, let’s vote for leaders who understand the Valley and are ready to make healthcare work for all of us. Together, we can push for practical, cost-effective solutions and make the ACA a program that finally meets our community’s needs.
Editor’s Note: The above guest column was penned by Dr. Sujan Gogu, a physician who is triple board-certified in family medicine, sports medicine, and pain medicine. As a core faculty member at the DHR Family Medicine Residency Program and a faculty member across four medical schools, he mentors both residents and students. Through his active involvement with the Texas Medical Board and Texas Medical Association, Dr. Gogu advocates for healthcare reform. He is also an advocate for public health improvement via Healthcare for Action, using political channels to drive better health outcomes. In addition to his clinical and academic roles, Dr. Gogu is a respected commentator, speaker, and writer, frequently sharing his insights across multiple platforms. He serves as a physician for USA Badminton and USA Boxing, expanding his reach in sports medicine through Team USA, and supports the Rio Grande Valley Vipers as the team physician for the NBA G-League. His leadership extends to several medical organizations, advancing healthcare initiatives and professional development. Outside of medicine, Dr. Gogu lives in the Rio Grande Valley with his wife, where he values cultural diversity, stays active, and enjoys time with family and friends. He can be contacted by email at sgogu@vcom.edu.
