The Affordable Care Act: Getting America Covered
This past Saturday, November 15th, marked the start of the Affordable Care Act’s (ACA) 2014 open enrollment period. From November 15th to February 15th, millions of Americans will have the opportunity to shop for and enroll in customized health insurance plans most suited to their personal needs.
In spite of the initial difficulties with the website during the 2014 rollout, the ACA has evolved into a thriving and effective healthcare coverage system serving millions of people across the United States. Statistics provided from the first open enrollment period show that this historic law is performing well. By ensuring that millions of students, workers, and families across the U.S. are able to reap the benefits of newfound health security, in addition to the personal and economic freedoms provided as a result.
In 2011, the ACA made healthcare more accessible and affordable for millions of Americans by saving consumers $9 billion. In fact, during the first open enrollment period in October of 2013, nearly 7 out of 10 people who selected a plan through the Health Insurance Marketplace found coverage for less than $100 a month with tax credits. Since then, 10.3 million uninsured adults have received health coverage and the number of uninsured adults has been reduced by 26% according to statistics released by the Obama Administration and the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS).
On the first day of the 2014 open enrollment period, over 100,000 people submitted their coverage applications – many receiving their eligibility results that same day. For those unable to complete the process online, the ACA call center took more than 200,000 calls this weekend, with over 20,000 of these calls held in Spanish. I believe this was a great start to the second open enrollment period and exactly the type of momentum I would like to see continue through February 15th.
CMS reported that in 2015, insurers will be offering 25% more plans, with some of the nation’s largest insurers offering coverage for the first time in more than a dozen states. In Texas alone, there are more than 2.6 million people who lack health insurance. With such great opportunities currently available, numbers like these are simply unacceptable.
As a representative of the 30th congressional district, I will continue to work hard to ensure a reduction in the number of uninsured Texans. Through the ACA, affordable coverage is available between now and February 15th with coverage beginning as early as January 1st if enrolled by December 15th. I encourage my constituents to make their elections early and get covered.
