Question

where do you stand on the issue of Healthcare Reform (ACA)?

What are the pros and cons of this reform?

Answer 1

About eight years ago, the ACA made its way into the spotlight promising greater access, choice, and coverage for all. The population primarily needing assistance included those ineligible for employer-sponsored health insurance or either of the entitlement programs Medicare or Medicaid. The individuals with the poorest health had little to no choices for health insurance and the options available were extremely expensive. Although the smallest population, they are most vulnerable.

Today’s healthcare enrollment numbers help us understand the story. In 2010, 50 million people were without health insurance coverage. Seven years later, the number is 11.7 million people. While a great improvement, this change didn’t come without a cost.

Millions of Americans have benefitted by receiving insurance coverage through the ACA. Many of these people were unemployed or had low-paying jobs. Some couldn’t work because of a disability or family obligations. Others couldn’t get decent health insurance because of a pre-existing medical condition, such as a chronic disease.

The ACA has been highly controversial, despite the positive outcomes. Conservatives objected to the tax increases and higher insurance premiums needed to pay for Obamacare. Some people in the healthcare industry are critical of the additional workload and costs placed on medical providers. They also think it may have negative effects on the quality of care. There are frequent calls for the ACA to be repealed or overhaule

Today we stand at a very successful stage of this issue. With many pros and cons which are listed below

Pros

More than 16 million Americans obtained  health insurance coverage within the first five years of the ACA.

Health Insurance Is More Affordable for Many People

People with Pre-Existing Health Conditions Can No Longer Be Denied Coverage

No Time Limits on Care

More Screenings Are Covered

The ACA covers many screenings and preventive services. These usually have low co-pays or deductibles. The hope is that if you’re proactive in your healthcare, you can avoid or delay major health problems later. Healthier consumers will lead to lower costs over time.

Lower Prescription Drug Costs

Cons

Many People Have to Pay Higher Premiums

You Can Be Fined if You Don’t Have Insurance

Taxes Are Going up as a Result of the ACA

Enrolling Can Be Complicated

Businesses Are Cutting Employee Hours to Avoid Covering Employees