Healthcare Services

Details of the legislation

Highlights for Vermont
Provisions of the law
Read the full text of the law
Health care reform summary
Immediate benefits
Implementation timeline

Vermonters,

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) is bringing about important changes to our nation’s health care system.  Some reforms have already been implemented, such as keeping young adults up to age 26 on their parents’ plans, and lowering  senior citizens’ prescription drug costs by closing the  Medicare “donut hole.” Additionally, cracking down on fraud has returned four billion dollars to the Medicare Trust Fund in 2012 alone.

Another important change will occur in October: the requirement for individuals and small businesses to purchase health insurance through state exchanges.

The goals of the ACA are crucial for our nation: expanding access to health care and controlling skyrocketing health care costs. 

I hope this resource guide provides helpful information to you as these reforms become effective.

If you have any questions, please contact me at www.welch.house.gov or at 1-888-605-7270.

-Peter

What is the Affordable Care Act?

On March 23, 2010, President Obama signed the Affordable Care Act (ACA).  The law puts in place health insurance reforms that will roll out over four years and beyond. 

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Overview of the ACA

Timeline for ACA reforms

What changes are coming next?

Some of the most significant changes in health insurance will occur this October.  Starting then, consumers will shop for insurance through state exchanges. 

In Vermont, individuals, families and small businesses will purchase insurance through theVermont Health Connect exchange/marketplace.  

How will the law impact:

• Individuals and Families
• Small Businesses
• Seniors
• Veterans

For information on Vermont’s health care reform initiatives and how these relate to federal reform, please see Vermont Health Connect for the latest information.

If you have any questions about these changes, please contact me at www.welch.house.gov or at 1-888-605-7270.