The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA), commonly called health care reform, was passed on March 23, 2010. The ACA is addressing several areas of health care such as health insurance coverage, exchanges, subsidies, Medicare and Medicaid reform and other features. Clark County Public Health is working to stay informed of the changes in health care and the effects of this legislation on Clark County residents.
While the legislation does not go into full effect until 2014, many components have already been implemented. For example:
Insurance companies can no longer deny children insurance coverage because of a pre-existing condition
Lifetime limits on insurance coverage have been eliminated
You can now keep your dependent adult on your insurance up to the age of 26
Most preventive care such as immunizations and mammograms do not have a co-pay
For seniors, Medicare Part D is closing the prescription drug coverage gap, known as the donut hole
In 2010, people in the donut hole received a one time $250 rebate
In 2011, these same people will receive 50 percent off the cost of brand name drugs when they reach the donut hole
Insurers are prohibited from charging women more than men for the same insurance coverage.
