Public Health

Background

Access to affordable, high-quality healthcare is essential for families across Missouri's First District. Congressman Bell believes every family should have access to healthcare that is affordable, accessible, and responsive to their community's needs. As St. Louis continues to strengthen its position as a national leader in healthcare and medical innovation, Congressman Bell is committed to advancing policies that expand access to care, lower patient costs, and support the region's world-class healthcare institutions and workforce.

Congressman Bell’s Position: 

• Expanding healthcare access
• Protecting Medicaid and Medicare
• Investing in public health research
• Addressing racial disparities in healthcare
• Supporting mental health services
• Expanding maternal health resources
• Strengthening disease prevention and community health programs

Legislative Actions

• Cosponsor of the Medicare for All Act
• Led bipartisan efforts recognizing Parkinson’s Awareness Month and advocating for increased research funding  
• A part of the Congressional Black Maternal Health Caucus
• Cosponsored Alzheimer's Screening and Prevention (ASAP) Act to require Medicare coverage for FDA-approved blood tests that detect Alzheimer's disease in its earliest stages. 
• Cosponsored Hands Off Medicaid and SNAP Act
• Opposed cuts to Medicaid and healthcare programs
• Advocated for public health investments and environmental cleanup efforts