In a letter sent to 12 individuals statewide, Grassley said he is "concerned about the potential impact of the strike on the quality and consistency of health care services for Iowans." Grassley expressed his concerns as Chairman of the Senate Special Committee on Aging and the senior U.S. senator representing Iowa. "It is important that the high standard of health care upon which all Iowans have grown to rely not be compromised," he said.
Grassley asked these leaders in the health care field to keep him fully apprised of any problems that may develop in the delivery of needed health care services or supplies due to the strike. "Those who are frail and elderly, especially those in rural Iowa, might be at particular risk. Therefore, of concern is the shipment of specimens to laboratories for analysis, plasma for the maintenance of blood banks, supplies for nursing homes and hospitals, and the many other medical and surgical supplies shipped by UPS," Grassley said.