The Acts of Convention

Resolved, That the 76th General Convention call on its congregations to undertake discussions within the parish of the issue of healthcare coverage in the United States, including:

• a) recognition that health is multi-dimensional, with spiritual, social, environmental and mental elements as well as physical
• b) reminder of personal responsibility for healthy life choices and concern for maintaining one’s own health
• c) proclaiming the Gospel message of concern for others which extends to concern for their physical health as well as spiritual well-being
• d) responsibility as a parish to attend to the needs (including health-related needs) of others, both other members of the parish family and those of the wider community, the nation and the world
• e) recognition that there are limits to what the healthcare system can and should provide and thus that some uncomfortable and difficult choices may have to be made if we are to limit healthcare costs; and be it further

Resolved, That The Episcopal Church urge its members to contact elected federal, state and territorial officials encouraging them to:

• a) create, with the assistance of experts in related fields, a comprehensive definition of “basic healthcare” to which our nation’s citizens have a right
• b) establish a system to provide basic healthcare to all
• c) create an oversight mechanism, separate from the immediate political arena, to audit the delivery of that “basic healthcare”
• d) educate our citizens in the need for limitations on what each person can be expected to receive in the way of medical care under a universal coverage program in order to make the program sustainable financially
• e) educate our citizens in the role of personal responsibility in promoting good health; and be it further

Resolved, That this resolution be distributed to all Provinces and dioceses of The Episcopal Church for their consideration and support.