Affordable Care Act

The Affordable Care Act is a somewhat controversial and recent law passed in the U.S., which aims to put consumers back in the driver’s seat in regards to their health care options. This law is called a "Patient's Bill of Rights" and gives healthcare customers in the United States more flexibility to make educated decisions related to their healthcare needs.

What type of coverage is offered?

Coverage under the Affordable Care Act ends pre-existing condition exclusions for those under the age of 19 because of a pre-existing condition. Young adults can still be covered. Anyone 26 and under could still be eligible to be covered under a parent or guardian's health insurance coverage. This law also ends unreasonable removal from coverage, or cancellation of coverage. Coverage cannot be cancelled without a valid reason. The right to appeal a denial of payment is a guarantee.

What are the costs associated?

The Affordable Care Act bans the lifetime limit on most benefits of all new health insurance plans. Through it, insurance companies must now justify any unreasonable rate increases. It also helps premium dollars be spent where they are supposed to be spent: on health care, not administrative costs.

What type of care is offered?

The Affordable Care Act covers preventative services with no cost or co-payments. There is the possibility of being eligible for recommended preventative health services with no co-payment. It protects your choice of doctors. The insured can choose from any doctors within the plan's network. And, it removes the insurance company barriers to emergency services, making it possible to seek emergency care at a hospital outside of the plan's network.