Obamacare and What You Should Do

It’s not often I use the word ‘should’ in the headline of an article. In fact, this may be the first time I’ve ever used it. In light of the conversations I’ve heard concerning The Patient Protection and Affordable CareAct (PPACA), otherwise known as the Affordable Care Act (ACA) or Obamacare, I felt compelled to use that word. Rather than talk, we should take action. The action you take, of course, will depend on your view.

The ACA has been a hot topic of conversation both in and outside political discussions. It’s a law that reforms both the healthcare and health insurance industry that was signed on March 23, 2010 by President BarackObama. Its aim was to increase the quality, accessibility and affordability of private and public health insurance. There are both pros and cons to the deal, because, let’s face it, nothing is (or ever will be) perfect. What I feel are pros are 1) Folks who have pre-existing conditions cannot be turned down for insurance coverage; 2) Parents can keep their young adult children on their insurance. According to President Donald Trump, even if the ACA is appealed and replaced, these provisions will be intact. I’m glad to hear that. It was good to be able to keep my children on my insurance through the years they turned 26.

Now, admittedly (check out obamacarefacts.com), each of the provisions of the law have varying degrees of success. That’s to be expected.

So, you’re probably wondering what should you do. Or at the very least, what I think you should do.

With the change in administration, January 20, 2017, the possible repeal and replacement of the ACA became very real. But it was no surprise. Throughout his campaign Donald Trump noted a need for better healthcare for all Americans and promised to make that happen. According to Speaker Paul Ryan, repeal and replace would mean risk pools as a smarter way to help people with preexisting conditions to directly subsidize their care so the burden does not lie on the rest of the population. 

Also, health care savings accounts could help people with problems they are having with upfront or deductible spending. If you currently have health insurance through your workplace, you may be familiar with health care spending accounts that allow the employee to designate a certain amount of tax-free money to go into the account each payday. Other changes would include allowing insurance plans to compete over state lines; a competitive marketplace would give people better choices.

While some are excited about the possible coming changes, some are satisfied with the ACA as it is now.

However you feel about it, now is your time to act.

Here’s how: Since November 2016, Paul Ryan’s office has been conducting a phone poll concerning the Affordable Care Act. If you haven’t participated in the poll but would like to, simply call (202) 225-0600 and follow the prompts to weigh in on the issue. Near the end of the call there’s an option to leave a voicemail. (When I called on 1/22/17, the voicemail was full.) It takes about 2 minutes.

Now you know what you should do.

Make your voice heard.

United We Stand,

Jean

Jean Bailey Robor is that "No Buts About It" expert who simply wants you to lead happier and more successful lives. Getting past what's holding you back and changing your mindset can put you on that path to better living. Click here to book Jean for your next event!