WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), finalized a Rule under the Administrative Procedure Act that will expand health coverage for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients by opening up Affordable Care Act (ACA) Health Insurance Marketplace plans. This Rule will benefit an estimated 100,000 Dreamers. Juliet K. Choi, President & CEO of the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) and former Chief of Staff and Senior Advisor of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, gave the following statement: “After a historic Marketplace enrollment period, with over 21 million individuals selecting Affordable Care Act health insurance, we are thrilled by HHS’s bold action to expand access to the Marketplace to more Americans. In addition to access to affordable health coverage, Dreamers will also be able to utilize federal subsidies for these plans. “For far too long, DACA recipients, approximately 10 percent of whom are Asian Americans & Pacific Islanders, have been denied access to many health care options provided by the Affordable Care Act despite living and residing in the United States. Today’s announcement continues the Biden Administration’s commitment that health care is a right, not a privilege.” ### The Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) influences policy, mobilizes communities, and strengthens programs and organizations to improve the health of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders. APIAHF APPLAUDS HHS ACTIONS TO EXPAND HEALTH CARE FOR DACA RECIPIENTS MAY 3, 2024 WASHINGTON – Today, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) released revisions to Statistical Policy Directive No. 15: Standards for Maintaining, Collecting, and Presenting Federal Data on Race and Ethnicity. The revised standards modernize the collection of race and ethnicity data and improve how federal agencies analyze and publish that data. Directive 15 was last updated in 1997 to create separate “Asian” and “Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander and expand “Hispanic” to include “Hispanic or Latino.” APIAHF President & CEO Juliet K. Choi released the following statement: “APIAHF is proud to have advocated for revised standards, including submitting comments with over 40 national, state, and local partners through the regulatory process, that would reflect the communities that span our great nation. The updated Directive 15 is the culmination of work across all communities and between federal agencies toward data equity in the U.S. “In particular, we applaud including the new Middle Eastern or North African (MENA) category. We know first-hand the importance of communities being seen and represented, and this new designation will mean critical resources, including in-language, can be delivered to MENA communities. We also applaud OMB's commitment to revising these standards and establishing a regular review ahead of each decennial census. “We look to OMB’s continued commitment to build upon this great work by requiring all federal departments and agencies to collect, analyze, use, report, and disseminate disaggregated data on communities as the minimum standards. Accurate, inclusive data is core to the work that we can achieve and has a meaningful impact on how resources are allocated. We look forward to continuing collaboration with OMB as they work to implement these new revisions.” # # # APIAHF APPLAUDS OMB REVISIONS TO DIRECTIVE 15 FOR ACCURATE, INCLUSIVE FEDERAL DATA STANDARDS MARCH 28, 2024 WASHINGTON – Tonight, in his State of the Union address, President Joe Biden outlined the Administration’s progress over the past year, and his vision for the remainder of his term. Juliet K. Choi, President & CEO of the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF), released the following statement: “We applaud President Biden's and Congress' continued efforts to reduce health care costs and broaden quality health coverage for American families, including wins from the Inflation Reduction Act. “This month, we commemorate four years since the start of the deadly, global COVID-19 virus that caused devastating impacts across our country. Today, our country is back, stronger than ever, with American families seeing dividends from policies that have reduced the coverage gap, lowered prescription drug costs, and capped drug costs for seniors. In fact, in the 2023-24 ACA Open Enrollment period, a record-breaking 21.3 million Americans enrolled in marketplace health plans. “As we celebrate the wins, we also look forward to the opportunities to promote health equity in care and research mentioned tonight, including innovation for rare diseases and cancer through ARPA-H and new initiatives on women’s health research. “APIAHF is proud of the progress our country has made to strengthen and expand health care and health equity, and reiterate the President’s statements to preserve that right for all people, including protections for reproductive freedoms and privacy. We look forward to continuing to work in partnership with both the Administration and Congress to improve the health of our nation.” # # # The Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) influences policy, mobilizes communities, and strengthens programs and organizations to improve the health of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders. APIAHF RESPONSE TO THE STATE OF THE UNION ADDRESS MARCH 7, 2024 WASHINGTON— Today, the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services released an instructional bulletin to all states and U.S. territories requiring them to ensure Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) eligible individuals retain their coverage during the state’s Medicaid Unwinding period. CMS released additional data that nine states, Texas, Florida, Georgia, Ohio, Arkansas, South Dakota, Idaho, New Hampshire, and Montana, account for 60 percent of the decline in children’s Medicaid and CHIP enrollment from March through September 2023. In September, CMS required all states to pause disenrollment and reinstate coverage for certain disenrolled individuals under Medicaid Unwinding. The action resulted in a half-million children and their families regaining Medicaid and CHIP Coverage. Juliet K. Choi, president and CEO of the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF), released the following statement: “Medicaid and CHIP cover more than half of all children in the United States. We applaud CMS for ensuring children have reliable access to necessary health care as we head into winter when influenza and other illnesses need medical attention. “However, thousands of families and their children continue to face disenrollment, and it is unconscionable that this occurs due to a state’s systems and operational issues. These states must take immediate action to ensure children are protected. Today’s action by CMS reinforces the Biden administration’s policy of ensuring quality care for all families, and states must take action to ensure the well-being of our nation’s children.” # # # The Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) influences policy, mobilizes communities and strengthens programs and organizations to improve the health of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders. STATES MUST TAKE ACTION TO ENSURE CHILDREN AND FAMILIES HAVE MEDICAID COVERAGE DECEMBER 18, 2023 WASHINGTON—Today, the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services announced that half a million children and other individuals regained coverage to CHIP and Medicaid as a result of its August call to action letter sent to all states and U.S. territories. The letter required immediate action from state Medicaid directors to address the affected families and safeguard them from improper disenrollments. Juliet K. Choi, president and CEO of the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) released the following statement: “The immediate action by CMS has resulted in necessary and life-saving health coverage reinstated for some of our nation’s most vulnerable populations. “Today shows that CMS must continue to take bold, decisive steps to mitigate the devastating impacts of Medicaid Unwinding, especially as millions of additional families face the disenrollment cliff. We urge the Biden administration to protect access to affordable health care for all families, including additional accessible resources and outreach to vulnerable communities.” # # # The Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) influences policy, mobilizes communities, and strengthens programs and organizations to improve the health of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders. CMS CALL TO ACTION RESULTS IN HALF A MILLION CHILDREN AND FAMILY MEMBERS REENROLLED IN HEALTH CARE COVERAGE SEPTEMBER 21, 2023 WASHINGTON—Today, the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services sent a letter to all states and U.S. territories requiring them to determine if they have an eligibility systems issue that could cause entire households to be disenrolled from Medicaid or CHIP even if they are eligible for coverage. If a state has an eligibility systems issue, they must do the following, to avoid CMS enforcement to bring states into compliance: 1) Pause procedural disenrollments for those individuals impacted, 2) Reinstate coverage for all affected individuals and provide retroactive eligibility back to the date of termination, 3) Implement one or more CMS-approved mitigation strategies until such time that the state has fixed all systems and processes to prevent continued inappropriate disenrollments, and 4)Fix state systems and processes to ensure renewals are conducted appropriately and in accordance with federal Medicaid requirements. Juliet K. Choi, president and CEO of the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) released the following statement: “We applaud CMS for taking bold action to safeguard health care coverage for millions of families across our nation as we continue to face the devastating impacts of disenrollment from Medicaid Unwinding, which disproportionately affects communities of color, immigrants and individuals with limited English proficiency. “Health care is a fundamental right, and ensuring that children and families have reliable access to necessary services is paramount. It is unconscionable for states to disenroll thousands of families, including children, due to a state’s systems and operational issues. This action today by CMS is a positive and necessary step toward protecting coverage for low-income families, and we are optimistic that the Biden administration will continue to forge forth towards affordable, quality care for all families.” # # # The Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) influences policy, mobilizes communities and strengthens programs and organizations to improve the health of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders. APIAHF APPLAUDS CMS’ BOLD ACTION TO SAFEGUARD HEALTH CARE COVERAGE AUGUST 30, 2023 WASHINGTON—Today, the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services sent a letter to all states and U.S. territories requiring them to determine if they have an eligibility systems issue that could cause entire households to be disenrolled from Medicaid or CHIP even if they are eligible for coverage. If a state has an eligibility systems issue, they must do the following, to avoid CMS enforcement to bring states into compliance: 1) Pause procedural disenrollments for those individuals impacted, 2) Reinstate coverage for all affected individuals and provide retroactive eligibility back to the date of termination, 3) Implement one or more CMS-approved mitigation strategies until such time that the state has fixed all systems and processes to prevent continued inappropriate disenrollments, and 4)Fix state systems and processes to ensure renewals are conducted appropriately and in accordance with federal Medicaid requirements. Juliet K. Choi, president and CEO of the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) released the following statement: “We applaud CMS for taking bold action to safeguard health care coverage for millions of families across our nation as we continue to face the devastating impacts of disenrollment from Medicaid Unwinding, which disproportionately affects communities of color, immigrants and individuals with limited English proficiency. “Health care is a fundamental right, and ensuring that children and families have reliable access to necessary services is paramount. It is unconscionable for states to disenroll thousands of families, including children, due to a state’s systems and operational issues. This action today by CMS is a positive and necessary step toward protecting coverage for low-income families, and we are optimistic that the Biden administration will continue to forge forth towards affordable, quality care for all families.” # # # The Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) influences policy, mobilizes communities and strengthens programs and organizations to improve the health of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders. APIAHF APPLAUDS CMS’ BOLD ACTION TO SAFEGUARD HEALTH CARE COVERAGE AUGUST 30, 2023 WASHINGTON—Today, the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services sent a letter to all states and U.S. territories requiring them to determine if they have an eligibility systems issue that could cause entire households to be disenrolled from Medicaid or CHIP even if they are eligible for coverage. If a state has an eligibility systems issue, they must do the following, to avoid CMS enforcement to bring states into compliance: 1) Pause procedural disenrollments for those individuals impacted, 2) Reinstate coverage for all affected individuals and provide retroactive eligibility back to the date of termination, 3) Implement one or more CMS-approved mitigation strategies until such time that the state has fixed all systems and processes to prevent continued inappropriate disenrollments, and 4)Fix state systems and processes to ensure renewals are conducted appropriately and in accordance with federal Medicaid requirements. Juliet K. Choi, president and CEO of the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) released the following statement: “We applaud CMS for taking bold action to safeguard health care coverage for millions of families across our nation as we continue to face the devastating impacts of disenrollment from Medicaid Unwinding, which disproportionately affects communities of color, immigrants and individuals with limited English proficiency. “Health care is a fundamental right, and ensuring that children and families have reliable access to necessary services is paramount. It is unconscionable for states to disenroll thousands of families, including children, due to a state’s systems and operational issues. This action today by CMS is a positive and necessary step toward protecting coverage for low-income families, and we are optimistic that the Biden administration will continue to forge forth towards affordable, quality care for all families.” # # # The Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) influences policy, mobilizes communities and strengthens programs and organizations to improve the health of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders. APIAHF APPLAUDS CMS’ BOLD ACTION TO SAFEGUARD HEALTH CARE COVERAGE AUGUST 30, 2023 PRESS RELEASES — UPDATES PRESS RELEASES —

Your membership to APIAHF’s Business Leadership Circle is a high-impact and visible way to visibly demonstrate your commitment to improving Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AA and NHPI) health. APIAHF will help your company to engage with the fastest growing demographic in the United States. APIAHF is looking to build strategic partnerships with businesses and corporations that share our vision of investing in healthy and vibrant communities. BUSINESS LEADERSHIP CIRCLE — Your membership to APIAHF’s Business Leadership Circle is a high-impact and visible way to visibly demonstrate your commitment to improving Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AA and NHPI) health. APIAHF will help your company to engage with the fastest growing demographic in the United States. APIAHF is looking to build strategic partnerships with businesses and corporations that share our vision of investing in healthy and vibrant communities. We will work with you to co-create strategies that highlight your company’s commitment to improving AA and NHPI health equity through any combination of the following: EVENT SPONSORSHIP – PROGRAMMATIC INVESTMENTS – PROJECT DONATIONS – GRANTS AND AWARDS PROGRAMS – RAISING PUBLIC AWARENESS BENEFITS OF BLC MEMBERSHIP Being a part of APIAHF Business Leadership Circle has numerous benefits that include, but are not limited to: Tailored analysis of ways that your company can engage with AA and NHPI populations throughout the country Opportunities to demonstrate your company’s leadership and commitment to diversity and health equity through our events and outreach to our national network Engage in networking and programmatic opportunities with top public health, philanthropic, and community leaders in the San Francisco Bay Area, Washington, DC, and other program areas across the country. Regular updates and insights on emergent issues that affect health equity and policies for diverse communities GET INVOLVED BUSINESS LEADERSHIP CIRCLE — TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE BUSINESS LEADERSHIP CIRCLE CONTACT development@apiahf.org

OCTOBER 22, 2025 PRESS RELEASE “THIS IS ABOUT SAVING LIVES”: MEMBERS OF CONGRESS AND CIVIL RIGHTS ADVOCATES JOINED PROTECT OUR CARE TO HIGHLIGHT IMPACTS OF GOP HEALTH CARE CRISIS ON COMMUNITIES OF COLOR OCTOBER 22, 2025 Watch the full event . Read Protect Our Care’s fact sheet . Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Representatives Grace Meng (NY-06), Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC), Glenn Ivey (MD-04), Darren Soto (FL-09), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Nikema Williams (GA-05), and Nydia Velázquez (NY-07) joined Protect Our Care and leading civil rights and health advocacy organizations to highlight the devastating impacts of the GOP health care crisis on communities of color. Since taking power, President Trump and the Republican Majority have launched an unrelenting assault on the nation’s health care system and thrown our entire health care system into chaos, all to fund tax breaks for billionaires and big corporations. Now, they’re holding our government hostage to rip away tax credits from millions of people, causing premiums to more than double. These health care cuts are hitting millions of working and middle-income Americans – including those in the African American, Hispanic American, Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities – especially hard. Speakers called on Trump and Republicans in Congress to end their health care crisis and stop putting tax breaks for billionaires over health care for working people. "President Trump and Congressional Republicans are once again attacking our health care and our communities,” said Rep. Grace Meng (NY-06), Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC). “They are single-handedly responsible for the largest cut to Medicaid in U.S. history – a lifeline for 4.5 million Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders (AANHPIs) – and are now raising premiums for over 1.5 million AANHPIs. This is completely unacceptable. In the wealthiest nation in the world, Americans should not have to choose between paying for medicine and putting food on their table. This is the future that I am fighting for as CAPAC Chair, and Republicans need to come back from their vacation and address the health care crisis they created." “This is a transfer of wealth from the needy to the greedy that’s never been paralleled in American history, and I think it’s critical for us to do everything we can to stop it,” said Rep. Glenn Ivey (MD-04). “Republicans are trying to pretend like they need additional time to deal with this, but the truth of the matter is, they're trying to slip this by the American people. They hope that they can get away with it and that people will have to eat these costs, knowing that all of the money that they were going to try and save from this was going to go to the wealthy.” “We’re all in this fight together,” said Rep. Jill Tokuda (HI-02). “We clearly know what our red line in the sand is, and that’s saving people’s lives, it’s health care. When I look at my AANHPI community, the bottom line is we’re surviving, we’re thriving, we’re living longer thanks to the Affordable Care Act. When we talk about permanently extending Affordable Care Act premium tax credits, this is about saving lives.” “The Trump Administration is pushing this Republican health care crisis further with every passing day,” said Rep. Nikema Williams (GA-05). “Right now, working families in Georgia’s fighting fifth district are having tough kitchen table conversations. They’re looking ahead to open enrollment, wondering if Republicans are going to double or even triple their premiums. My constituents are not a line item in a budget; they’re not some savings cost so that we can give more tax benefits to billionaires. They are real people facing life or death consequences because of the actions that my Republican colleagues are refusing to take.” “Donald Trump and Congressional Republicans have launched an unrelenting assault on the nation’s health care system,” said Rep. Nydia Velázquez (NY-07) . “Now, they are doubling down by letting critical Affordable Care Act tax credits expire. This crisis will hit communities of color the hardest. More than half of Hispanics say that because of costs, they either didn’t fill a prescription, skipped a follow-up test, or avoided going to the doctor altogether when they were sick. We will not stand by while Republicans rip care away from millions of families to pay for more corporate giveaways.” “For the millions of Americans struggling with higher costs, Democrats are fighting for you,” said Rep. Darren Soto (FL-09). “That's what this battle is all about: stopping a huge health care hike to the American people. This is a matter of priorities. We have the money to do this, but Republicans don't want to negotiate right now. Let's come together. Let’s save America’s health care.” "This government shutdown is predicated on a core value that healthcare access is a privilege and not a right,” said Shavon Arline-Bradley, President and CEO, National Council of Negro Women. “If our government officials do not come to an agreement, healthcare subsidies will expire on Dec. 31 under the Patient Protection & Affordable Care Act. Subsidies and tax credit extensions are not partisan issues; these are real-life American realities that will affect Black women and their families. For the American people, tax subsidies allow them the opportunity to pay affordable premiums for families. If they go away, you will see premiums double for families that are already on fixed incomes. We are most concerned at NCNW because we understand that the population’s health is at risk. We must remind Congress that we want to sustain all patient protections. Everyone knows the saying, ‘if you have your health, you have everything.’ So, we say, do what is human and what is right. Come to the table and pass a reconciliation bill that ensures affordable healthcare for all permanently." “Costs are skyrocketing, hospitals are closing, and the nation's public health infrastructure has been gutted, all thanks to Republicans,” said Protect Our Care Policy and Health Equity Senior Advisor Joi Chaney . “But when they do this, they're not just playing political games. They are targeting people and families of all races, and we know that any time everyone is targeted, communities of color feel it first. They are the canaries in the mine and must never be forgotten.” “For millions of families, this debate isn’t about numbers on a spreadsheet. It’s about whether they can refill their prescriptions or get needed surgery without having to choose between their health and heating their homes,” said Linda Goler Blount, MPH, President and CEO, Community Catalyst . “Congress should enact a clean, permanent extension of the enhanced premium tax credits – not a patch, but real stability families can depend on. Making these tax credits permanent is the right thing – for families, for fairness, and for our economy. Every person in America deserves the peace of mind that comes with knowing if you get sick, you can get care.” “Over 20 million Americans, including 1.5 million Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders, rely on the ACA Marketplace to keep quality health care within reach,” said Juliet K. Choi, President and CEO, Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum. “Allowing these vital tax credits to expire will drive up costs by an average of $700 per plan and leave nearly 5 million people uninsured. Families have already faced the largest Medicaid cuts in history this year; Congress cannot allow even more Americans to be pushed out of care.” “The expiration of Affordable Care Act tax credits and looming Medicaid and Medicare cuts are not just policy shifts—they are a direct threat to the health and well-being of Black Americans,” said Marc H. Morial, President and CEO, National Urban League. “These changes risk reversing hard-won progress and will deepen the disparities that already plague our health care system. We cannot allow our communities to be sacrificed in budget negotiations. Health care is a right, not a privilege, and we must fight to protect it for those who need it most.” “The Affordable Care Act’s enhanced premium tax credits have made it possible for millions of Americans to have health insurance – the number of people covered has doubled since the tax credits increased for individuals, now at more than 24 million people,” said Deborah Weinstein, Executive Director, Coalition on Human Needs. “People of color have made significant gains. If Congressional leaders and President Trump refuse to extend the expanded Premium Tax Credit, we will see an entirely needless and dangerous step backward. People of color, still more likely to lack health insurance despite their recent gains, will be a prominent part of the more than 4 million expected to lose their health insurance if Congress fails to act now.” "These massive premium increases are not inevitable; these spikes in health care costs are a policy choice by Congress and the Trump Administration,” said Anthony Wright, Executive \Director of Families USA. “After an election on affordability issues, Congressional leaders are choosing to play politics and outright lie about who is impacted by these tax credits to afford health insurance. Not a single undocumented immigrant would get coverage in any proposal being discussed, but millions of Americans of all races, ages, incomes, and job types would see premiums double, or fall off coverage altogether. Congress needs to get back to work so the American people can get back to work and get the health care they need, at a price they can actually afford." “For the Latino community, the stakes could not be higher,” said Janet Murguía, President and CEO, UnidosUS. “These tax credits aren’t just numbers on a page, they are the reason a parent can take their child to the doctor, a worker can refill their prescription, or a grandmother can go to the doctor without skipping meals. It is Congress’ responsibility to make sure that any funding package protects access to and the affordability of health care, places clear guardrails on abusive and unconstitutional immigration actions, and preserves the rights of all Americans.” “When I was little, I became sick with a rare chronic illness that affects my digestive system,” said Victoria Lopez, a Floridian teenage health care advocate. “Medicaid covered what we could never have afforded on our own. Without it, I would have fallen through the cracks like so many others do. Medicaid gave me the chance to keep fighting. It covered the care that helped me walk again, return to school, and dream about my future. It gave me my life back and continues to do so. When we protect Medicaid, we protect futures. We protect children, families, and communities who deserve a fair chance at life. Losing that access isn’t just scary — it’s devastating. No one should have to choose between their health and their survival.” “The current administration’s policies will lead to more suffering for our Black and Latino communities,” said Annelys Roque Gardner, an Infectious Disease Doctor in Atlanta, GA. “Care will be delayed, and people will die. This doesn’t have to happen.” “When I turned 26, I aged out of my father’s health care plan, and I had to come to terms with the question of whether I should get insurance,” said Justin Carter, a 27-year-old from the Columbus, Ohio area. “As I thought about the question of whether I should get insurance, I thought about injuries; you’re always one injury away from crippling medical debt. I ended up coming to the conclusion that without it, one injury could cause a lot of medical debt, so I decided to get it. But with some of the changes coming, I am not even sure whether or not I’ll be able to be insured come next year.” “Cutting ACA tax credits and Medicaid will devastate Black communities and working families across the country,” said Derrick Johnson, President and CEO, NAACP. “When healthcare becomes unaffordable, people suffer, they get sick, and they die. A government that cannot protect its people’s basic well-being has failed its most fundamental test. This is policy violence against Black people and the 24 million Americans who rely on the ACA marketplace for healthcare. But make no mistake. This cruelty is the point. By failing to fund the expiring ACA tax credits, the GOP is playing politics with the health of our people. We call on lawmakers to do their job. Act in the interests of their people. And pass a funding bill that protects affordable care.” # # # Achieving health equity for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities through law, policy and practice. BACK TO PRESS RELEASES Next Item Previous Item BACK TO PRESS RELEASES

COVID-19 RESPONSE FELLOW CALI TRAN COVID-19 RESPONSE FELLOW OUR BOARD OUR LEADERSHIP OUR STAFF ABOUT OUR STAFF — Cali Tran is a COVID-19 Response Fellow for the Asian Pacific Islander American Health Forum. Advocating through a racial equity lens for Philadelphia’s various communities of color has been her personal and professional praxis. Her specialty lies in mezzo-level social work, particularly in qualitative research and program development and implementation in community-based organizations. Cali’s intersecting identities of being a queer, disabled, and neurodivergent daughter of Vietnamese refugees have informed causes close to her heart, including immigrant and refugee wellness, mental health, reproductive health, and domestic/interpersonal violence awareness and prevention. She holds a B.A. in Anthropology from Temple University in 2016, and a Master of Social Work degree from West Chester University in 2020. In her free time, she is a visual artist, home design enthusiast, and hobbyist anthropologist interested in foodways and cultural preservation. Next Item Previous Item BACK TO ALL STAFF

JANUARY 16, 2025 PRESS RELEASE APIAHF WELCOMES NEW BOARD MEMBER JANUARY 16, 2025 WASHINGTON —The Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) is pleased to announce the appointment of Albert Shen to its Board of Directors. “We are honored to welcome Albert Shen to our Board,” said Juliet K. Choi, President and CEO of APIAHF. “Albert’s distinguished career spanning civic engagement, public service, and the private sector brings a wealth of expertise and a multifaceted perspective that aligns with our vision and mission to advance health equity for Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders.” “Albert’s deep commitment to our community and his diverse professional experiences will be invaluable as we work to improve the health and well-being of AANHPI communities across the nation,” said Neal Shah, Board Chair of APIAHF. “We look forward to leveraging his leadership and insights to strengthen our initiatives.” Albert Shen currently serves as a Senior Federal Client Partner at Verizon, where he leads digital transformation strategies for federal government and public sector clients. Prior to Verizon, Shen held senior advisory positions at Toyota North America, focusing on sustainability and innovation. During the Obama Administration, he served as Deputy National Director of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Minority Business Development Agency, where he championed initiatives to empower minority-owned businesses. A recognized leader in the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities, Shen has served on several nonprofit boards, including as Board Chair of the Asian American Action Fund (AAAFund) PAC. His dedication to public service and community advocacy continues to make a meaningful impact nationwide. # # # BACK TO PRESS RELEASES Next Item Previous Item BACK TO PRESS RELEASES

APRIL 7, 2025 PRESS RELEASE LEADING AANHPI HEALTH ORGANIZATIONS STATEMENT ON HHS REORGANIZATION APRIL 7, 2025 WASHINGTON —The Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF), Asian Pacific Partners for Empowerment, Advocacy and Leadership (APPEAL), and National Council of Asian Pacific Islander Physicians (NCAPIP) raised concerns about the reorganization of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and its potential consequences for Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities. “The reorganization of HHS must be undertaken with a firm commitment to addressing the health challenges and disparities that AANHPI communities continue to face,” said Juliet K. Choi, president & CEO of APIAHF. “We are concerned that the changes to HHS’s structure could inadvertently dilute resources that are essential to ensuring culturally and linguistically competent care for our communities. We urge HHS to ensure that the reorganization does not weaken efforts to tackle evidence-based persistent health disparities and access to services in local communities, and to progress our shared goal of helping all Americans.” AANHPI populations have long faced systemic barriers to healthcare access, including a lack of linguistically and culturally appropriate services, and significant disparities in chronic disease prevalence, the utilization of mental health services, and tobacco cessation. We are particularly alarmed by the dismantling of HHS regional offices, many of which work directly with AANHPI communities. These offices serve as critical points of engagement, providing essential services, outreach, and resources that support positive health outcomes in historically underserved communities. Their elimination could further isolate AANHPI populations from necessary healthcare services and mask the immediate needs from communities that are struggling. “We urge HHS to provide transparency and meaningful engagement with community stakeholders as it moves forward with this reorganization,” added Rod Lew, Executive Director of APPEA L. “The voices of AANHPI communities must be at the table to ensure their health needs are not overlooked. We remain committed to working with federal partners to ensure the health of our communities remains a central focus of all policy and organizational decisions.” “Our physicians are providing care to AANHPI patients in many settings, including community clinics, academic centers, small practices and public health settings,” remarked Winston Wong, MD, chair & CEO of NCAPIP . “These dramatic reductions to the HHS workforce directly impact the quality and availability of services to AANHPI patients and communities that rely on our physicians to meet their special cultural and linguistic needs.” # # # The Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) influences policy, mobilizes communities, and strengthens programs and organizations to improve the health of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders. # # # Asian Pacific Partners for Empowerment, Advocacy and Leadership (APPEAL) is a national organization working towards social justice and a tobacco-free Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AA and NHPI) community. # # # NCAPIP was established 15 years ago to support physicians to meet the needs of their AANHPI communities. BACK TO PRESS RELEASES Next Item Previous Item BACK TO PRESS RELEASES

AUGUST 29, 2023 PRESS RELEASE BIDEN ADMINISTRATION ANNOUNCES FIRST 10 DRUGS FOR MEDICARE NEGOTIATION AUGUST 29, 2023 WASHINGTON —Today, the Biden administration announced the first round of high-cost prescription drugs for which Medicare will negotiate lower prices as part of the Inflation Reduction Act. “We applaud the Biden administration for taking decisive action to expand benefits and lower drug costs for all Americans,” said Juliet K. Choi, president and CEO of the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF). “We encourage drug manufacturers to work with the Biden administration to make these lifesaving and life-changing products available to recipients of Medicare at a reduced cost. For example, Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders are at higher risk for diabetes, and our communities have already seen the positive impact of insulin costs capped at $35 monthly under the Inflation Reduction Act. The first ten drugs will provide immediate financial relief to millions of hard-working families.” The first 10 drugs are: Eliquis: For prevention and treatment of blood clots Enbrel: For treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis Entresto: For treatment heart failure Farxiga: For treatment of treat diabetes, heart failure and chronic kidney disease Imbruvica: For treatment of blood cancers Fiasp/Novolog: For treatment of diabetes Januvia: For treatment of diabetes Jardiance: For treatment of diabetes and heart failure Stelara: For treatment of psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis Xarelto: For prevention and treatment of blood clots and reduction of risk for patients with coronary or peripheral artery disease To learn more about the Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program, view the ASPE factsheet and CMS factsheet. # # # The Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) influences policy, mobilizes communities and strengthens programs and organizations to improve the health of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders. BACK TO PRESS RELEASES Next Item Previous Item BACK TO PRESS RELEASES

C4H MANAGING DIRECTOR JAMILA SHIPP C4H MANAGING DIRECTOR OUR BOARD OUR LEADERSHIP OUR STAFF ABOUT OUR STAFF — Jamila Shipp is the managing director for Capacity for Health, a program of the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum. An Oakland native and nationally respected leader in public health, community advocacy and capacity-building, Shipp brings a heart for social justice, nearly two decades of experience, and a track-record of innovation in an always changing HIV sector. Jamila has extensive experience in program development, implementation, research, and evaluation of HIV/AIDS prevention programs. She specializes in underserved populations, particularly sex workers, homeless, and substance users. She has served as the chair of the California HIV planning group. Jamila holds a Masters of Public Health from San Francisco State University, and a B.S. in Health Care Management from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University. Next Item Previous Item BACK TO ALL STAFF

JUNE 13, 2025 PRESS RELEASE APIAHF CONDEMNS TRUMP-ERA DISCLOSURE OF MEDICAID DATA TO IMMIGRATION ENFORCEMENT JUNE 13, 2025 WASHINGTON —The Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) urges immediate action to reverse the Trump administration’s recent disclosure of sensitive Medicaid data—including immigration status—to U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officials, confirming internal emails and memos obtained by the Associated Press . According to these documents, two senior advisers to Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. directed Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to hand over names, addresses, Social Security numbers, and medical claims for Medicaid enrollees in California, Illinois, Washington state, and Washington, DC—despite CMS officials warning this move may violate the Social Security Act, the Privacy Act of 1974, and longstanding policy. “Health care access is a fundamental human right,” said Juliet K. Choi, President and CEO of APIAHF. “Disclosing Medicaid data to immigration authorities breaches that right, instills fear, and threatens public health. No one should be forced to choose between medical care and safety.” APIAHF stands firmly against this chilling violation of patient confidentiality and public trust. By weaponizing health‑care data for immigration enforcement, these actions risk deterring immigrant families, including many in our Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities, from seeking essential care. As the nation’s leading health equity advocate for AA & NHPI communities, APIAHF will continue to champion policies that ensure health care is safe, accessible, and free from surveillance. # # # The Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) influences policy, mobilizes communities, and strengthens programs and organizations to improve the health of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders. BACK TO PRESS RELEASES Next Item Previous Item BACK TO PRESS RELEASES

JUNE 10, 2025 PRESS RELEASE APIAHF DEEPLY CONCERNED BY HHS SECRETARY’S DECISION TO REMOVE ALL ACIP MEMBERS JUNE 10, 2025 WASHINGTON —The Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) expresses serious concern over the recent decision by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to announce plans to remove all current members of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), a longstanding body of medical and public health experts that advises the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on immunization guidelines. This move threatens to undermine decades of scientific progress, community trust, and evidence-based public health policymaking. “ACIP plays a vital role in protecting public health, particularly for historically underserved communities, including Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander populations,” said Juliet K. Choi, President and CEO of APIAHF. “Removing this independent advisory body erodes trust in science and could dangerously politicize vaccine policy.” The ACIP has been instrumental in providing transparent, peer-reviewed recommendations that have guided life-saving immunization strategies, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Disbanding its current membership could stall vaccination programs, exacerbate existing health disparities, and lead to increased preventable disease among vulnerable populations. AANHPI communities already face significant barriers to health care access and suffer disproportionate impacts from infectious disease outbreaks. Decisions that dismiss scientific expertise and public health safeguards only further marginalize these groups. APIAHF calls on all leaders to commit to preserving independent, evidence-based public health institutions. We urge policymakers and the public to remain vigilant in defending the integrity of bodies like ACIP and to prioritize the health and well-being of all communities. # # # The Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum influences policy, mobilizes communities, and strengthens programs and organizations to improve the health of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders. BACK TO PRESS RELEASES Next Item Previous Item BACK TO PRESS RELEASES

DIGITAL MEDIA PRODUCTION MANAGER EPHRAIM COLBERT DIGITAL MEDIA PRODUCTION MANAGER OUR BOARD OUR LEADERSHIP OUR STAFF ABOUT OUR STAFF — Ephraim is the digital media production manager for APIAHF’s Capacity for Health project. In his role, he leads the development for Ending of the HIV Epidemic video, podcast, and social media series. Ephraim uses communications and productions skills to share and amplify the voices of the voiceless. Before APIAHF Ephraim was a freelance producer working in video, radio, and podcast in the Bay Area. Ephraim has been Technical Director of live event for KPFA Radio 94.1fm and produced YouTube shows. “My community has rightfully had a history of mistrust of the healthcare system. I’d like to contribute to the rebuilding of that trust and improve the health concerns facing the African American community.” -Ephraim Next Item Previous Item BACK TO ALL STAFF

SEPTEMBER 21, 2023 PRESS RELEASE CMS CALL TO ACTION RESULTS IN HALF A MILLION CHILDREN AND FAMILY MEMBERS REENROLLED IN HEALTH CARE COVERAGE SEPTEMBER 21, 2023 WASHINGTON —Today, the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services announced that half a million children and other individuals regained coverage to CHIP and Medicaid as a result of its August call to action letter sent to all states and U.S. territories. The letter required immediate action from state Medicaid directors to address the affected families and safeguard them from improper disenrollments. Juliet K. Choi, president and CEO of the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) released the following statement: “The immediate action by CMS has resulted in necessary and life-saving health coverage reinstated for some of our nation’s most vulnerable populations. “Today shows that CMS must continue to take bold, decisive steps to mitigate the devastating impacts of Medicaid Unwinding, especially as millions of additional families face the disenrollment cliff. We urge the Biden administration to protect access to affordable health care for all families, including additional accessible resources and outreach to vulnerable communities.” # # # The Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) influences policy, mobilizes communities, and strengthens programs and organizations to improve the health of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders BACK TO PRESS RELEASES Next Item Previous Item BACK TO PRESS RELEASES