In March 2010, the Affordable Care Act (ACA), the nation’s health reform law, was signed into action by President Barack Obama. The basis of the health reform was to expand and improve health insurance coverage while controlling costs. Therefore, many individuals have interpreted that the ACA is just about insurance cost and coverage. These individuals were somewhat right, however; an emphasis toward population health is a theme that runs throughout many aspects of the ACA. In fact, the ACA gives unprecedented attention to and funding for public health. As the implementation of Affordable Care Act moves forward, it is significantly changing the way the United States supports the health of its citizens. Two of the most important provisions from the ACA that directly benefit
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Features of the ACA that both directly and indirectly target public health will be illustrated in this essay. While opinions can be formed, it’s really too soon to say how much of an effect these measures will have on the health of U.S. citizens.
Expanding Coverage and Expanding Public Health
Expanded coverage has been the central driving force behind the Affordable Care Act and rightfully so. Prior to the ACA, in 2009, 50 million people lacked health coverage and care (Kaiser & Tolbert, 2010). With the goal of seeing better health outcomes across the entire population, providing expansion of coverage and access to services was inevitable. To improve access to healthcare and mend disparities, there are specific ACA provisions that expand affordable health insurance options, improve gaps in Medicare, and expand Medicaid to address all low-income Americans. Most health plans are now required
Features of the ACA that both directly and indirectly target public health will be illustrated in this essay. While opinions can be formed, it’s really too soon to say how much of an effect these measures will have on the health of U.S. citizens.
Expanding Coverage and Expanding Public Health
Expanded coverage has been the central driving force behind the Affordable Care Act and rightfully so. Prior to the ACA, in 2009, 50 million people lacked health coverage and care (Kaiser & Tolbert, 2010). With the goal of seeing better health outcomes across the entire population, providing expansion of coverage and access to services was inevitable. To improve access to healthcare and mend disparities, there are specific ACA provisions that expand affordable health insurance options, improve gaps in Medicare, and expand Medicaid to address all low-income Americans. Most health plans are now required