WASHINGTON – Blue Cross Blue Shield Association Senior Vice President of Policy and Advocacy David Merritt issued the following statement in response to the decision in Braidwood Management Inc. v. Becerra striking down the Affordable Care Act’s preventive health care services mandate.

“The value of preventive services cannot be overstated: Access to no-cost screenings, counseling services and preventive medications is critical to improving overall health, early detection, and breaking down barriers to care. It is vitally important for patients to know that their care and coverage will not change because of today’s court decision. Blue Cross and Blue Shield companies strongly encourage their members to continue to access these services to promote their continued well-being. We will continue to monitor further developments in the courts.”