For Jesus' Mission of Love and Healing
As the passionate voice of the Catholic health ministry in the United States, the Catholic Health Association advocates with Congress, the Administration, federal agencies, and influential policy organizations to ensure that the nation's health system provides quality, affordable care across the continuum of health care delivery.
CHA raises the ministry's collective voice calling for access to health care for all persons, focusing special attention on vulnerable populations who are unable to speak for themselves.
CHA is recognized nationally as a leader in community benefit planning and reporting. In collaboration with member hospitals and health systems, CHA developed the first uniform standards for community benefit reporting by non-profit groups. Association members worked closely with congressional leaders and the Internal Revenue Service to develop the guidelines, which have been widely adopted by other tax-exempt groups across the country. The association also worked closely with the IRS in the development of the Form 990, Schedule H for hospitals.
For decades, CHA has been a tireless advocate for a health care system that works for everyone. Association members and staff regularly meet with legislators and government officials to bring about meaningful improvements in health care that protect life from conception to natural death and effectively address the issues of cost, coverage and access. Passage of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act in 2010 made great strides in expanding access to health care services for millions of Americans. Much work remains to ensure that all people have access to basic health care through a sensible and affordable system.
CHA will continue to work closely with federal and state health agencies, partner organizations and the church to ensure that health policies and regulations are consistent with Gospel values and ethical principles. CHA also collaborates with the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops on additional critical issues such as immigration, human trafficking, diversity and global health.