Health Care Reform

What’s health care reform?

Health care reform is a federal law that changes how you receive health care. It was passed by Congress and signed into law by President Barack Obama in March 2010.

Why was it created?

Health care reform was created to:

• Help more people get health care
• Improve people’s health
• Slow rising of health care costs

Who’s affected?

Health care reform affects almost all Americans:

• Insured. People with insurance can get more preventive coverage at no charge to them. They may also receive more options to get insurance.
• Uninsured. Almost everyone is required to have insurance starting in 2014 or pay a fine. People with major health problems cannot be turned down for coverage.

What’s changed?

• People up to age 26 can be covered under their parent’s family health plan.
• Adults can receive more preventive screenings and immunizations at no charge to them.
• Women can receive certain health care services at no charge to them.

What will change starting January 1, 2014:

• Most people must have health insurance coverage or pay a fine.
• You won’t be denied coverage even if you have a serious health condition.
• Insurance premiums won't be based on your health status anymore. They’ll be based on your age and rates may be adjusted based on tobacco use. (For people who get coverage through a small business with up to 50* employees or an individual plan.)
• Health plans must cover 10 essential health benefits (For people who get coverage through a small business with up to 50 full-time employees or through an individual plan.)