The positive side of the Affordable Care Act

Let's face it. The Affordable Care Act (Health Care Reform) got off to a rocky start.  For months, we have been hearing all the negative about the program. But in spite of all the bad publicity, there are a lot of good things about the Affordable Care Act that will be life changing for you and your family.  Let’s take a few moments to put aside everything we have been hearing and take a look at some of the positive aspects of it.

Coverage for Pre-Existing Conditions

Health insurers can no longer raise your premiums, refuse to cover you or drop you from your plan because you have cancer, asthma, diabetes, arthritis - - - or any other medical condition.  You will be able to get health insurance coverage regardless of any pre-existing conditions.

Coverage will Include Preventive Care

Diabetes and cholesterol screenings, mammograms and immunizations are all covered. This means you can catch the little things before they turn into bigger problems. Your coverage will also include services like flu shots, and smoking cessation and diet counseling to make staying healthy a lot easier.

Under the law, children under age 19 will be able to get their teeth cleaned twice a year, as well as receive X-rays, fillings and medically necessary orthodontia. In addition, children under age 19 will be entitled to an eye exam and one pair of glasses or set of contact lenses a year.

Lifetime Dollar Limits are Gone
In the past, health insurers could set a limit on how much your plan would pay over a specified period of time. If you had a bad year or an expensive illness, your coverage might run out. This dollar limit will be fully phased out.

Financial Help with Tax Credit or a Subsidy

Many people will qualify for a tax credit or a subsidy if they purchase coverage through the Federal Health Insurance Marketplace. Not everyone will qualify for this help, but if your earnings are below a certain level and you don’t have access to other affordable coverage through an employer-sponsored plan or state assisted plan like Medicaid, you may qualify for this financial assistance.

The plan you select will determine your premiums, deductibles and co-pays. Call me at 440-255-5700 to learn more. I’ll help you choose the coverage that makes the most sense for you, your family and your budget. Let’s get started today. I can be reached at 440-255-5700 or email at lmutsko@mutskoinsurance.com. For more information, visit her website at www.mutskoinsurance.com