Why Reform?
More than two-thirds of bankruptcies are due to illness or medical bills.
The high cost of health care is burdening our families and our communities when it forces families to destroy the personal wealth they’ve built over their lifetime.
More than 47 million Americans don’t have access to affordable health insurance. The cost of caring for uninsured adds more than $1000 to cost the average families insurance policy.
What about my coverage?
The new system will provide the right care, from the right place, at the right time.
We currently have job-based insurance, an increasingly hit-or-miss, inefficient and unreliable approach. The goal of reform is to create a comprehensive health coverage infrastructure that, like our interstate highways, works consistently and seamlessly for all.
More info about your current coverage.
Coverage options for you and your family
Find out about what is going on in Missouri.
What about the kids?
For those who graduate from college and face a difficult job market, health care reform will extend coverage on their parents’ plans until they are 26.
Kids with a preexisting condition can no longer be denied coverage.
More than 7 million low-income children will be covered by the popular State Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
Learn more about kids and health reform.
What about family farmers and small businesses?
Small businesses can benefit through tax credits offered through the health care system to make coverage more affordable.
The new law creates a marketplace where:
- Insurers must play by new rules that will ensure consumers receive quality coverage.
- Small businesses will be able to shop for coverage that is comprehensive and affordable.
- Premiums will be more reasonable and predictable for small businesses.
Does my small business qualify for tax credits?
Find out with this small business tax credit calculator.
What if I have a pre-existing condition?
Beginning in September 2010, job-based plans and new individual policies won’t be allowed to turn children down because of a pre-existing condition, including a disability.
In 2014, no one can be turned down or charged a higher premium because of a health condition or disability.
In the meantime, you may be able to get coverage through a state high-risk pool or through Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plans.
Click here for more on pre-existing condition insurance
What about cost?
The new law reduces cost by using new tools to target waste, fraud and abuse.
The new law begins to shift the focus of health care in our country from an illness and sick care orientation to health promotion, prevention and primary care.
- Beginning September, 2010, new health insurance plans must provide dozens of preventive services without charging a co-payment or deductible.
- In 2011, seniors on Medicare will not pay co-payments or deductibles on preventive services.
- In 2014, insurance plans offered through the exchange must include prevention and wellness services.
