Big Health Care Bill — Big Changes Ahead
The health care reform bill was big to say the least. There are so many elements and different timelines it is hard to know where to begin – and even more difficult to keep track of it all. Gratefully, someone has taken the time to put together the timelines for the implementation of the different pieces of the bill. Much to my surprise, and perhaps yours, many of the key elements were activated this year. No longer can insurance companies deny coverage based on pre-existing conditions, deny coverage to an adult child who is in college, increase rates without justifying the increase to a government panel, nor can they put lifetime dollar limits on care. Additionally, starting this year, small businesses will receive a tax credit for the health insurance they provide their employees. Over the next five years other elements of the bill will become active. For a full list of the issues and the timeline for initiation, click here.