What is the Affordable Care Act?

2010

• Parents can cover children to age 26 under certain conditions.
• Lifetime limits and annual dollar limits are no longer allowed.
• Children under age 19 cannot be turned down because of a pre-existing health condition.

2011

• Preventative Services, such as annual physicals and vaccinations, are covered free of charge.

2012

• Summary of Benefits and Coverage Form (SBC) is required to be sent to employer groups and covered members to assist in comparison of health plans. All insurance companies are required by law to use the same format.
• Insurance companies are required to refund premium dollars if they have not invested enough dollars on medical care.

2013

• Open Enrollment for the State-Based Exchanges and the Federally Facilitated Insurance Marketplace begins October 1st.

2014

• Individuals are required to have a health plan in place January 1, 2014 or pay a new tax.
• The Health Insurance Marketplace offers four metal level plans – Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum.
• Individuals under age 30 may purchase a catastrophic health plan which provides less coverage at a lower cost.
• Adults and children over age 19 cannot be turned down for health coverage due to a pre-existing health condition.
• Health Plans in 2014 will include vision care for children under 19 and some will include dental benefits for children under 19 as well

Page Last Updated: 8/02/13