Health Care Reform intends to change the face of health insurance coverage in the United States. With tens of millions across the nation currently uninsured, the current health care market was in vital need of change. As a result, the new law was designed and implemented with the intent that anyone who wants and/or needs health insurance would be able to acquire it. Prior to the Affordable Care Act (ACA), individuals with pre-existing conditions would not be approved for a health plan in the individual market. Unless they were offered employer sponsored coverage of qualified for a public assistance program, these individuals were left out in the cold. In the event of a catastrophic illness or injury, many would face financial devastation.
The Affordable Care Act clearly outlines the implementation of guaranteed coverage for all regardless of their health status beginning as early as January 1, 2014. At this point in time medical underwriting would cease to exist, and instead qualified individuals would be required to only complete a short medical survey, along with a financial questionnaire form to determine eligibility for premium assistance. Rates are still based on where the individual lives, as medical care varies greatly from county to county and state to state.
Goals of Health Care Reform:
- Help the millions of uninsured obtain coverage
- Expand Medi-Cal and Medicaid programs to qualified individual
- Encourage more employers to offer coverage to their employers (via tax credits and penalties)
- Help simplify the process of shopping for and obtaining health coverage
- Inspire more people to utilize preventive services by offering a multitude of no cost or low cost services
Health Reform touches all areas of health insurance plans, including the individual market, large group, and small businesses alike. While all face slightly different requirements, the goal across the board remains the same – offer health insurance coverage to every eligible resident. Let Health Exchange Quote Insurance Agency agents answer your questions about health care reform and how it affects you. Call us today!
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