Discussion.edited (1)
docx
keyboard_arrow_up
School
University of Nairobi *
*We aren’t endorsed by this school
Course
ABNORMAL P
Subject
Health Science
Date
Nov 24, 2024
Type
docx
Pages
1
Uploaded by MateSeaUrchin2879
Title of the Blog Post: "A World Without The ACA's Preventive Services Protections: The Impact Of The
Braidwood Decision" URL:
https://www.healthaffairs.org/content/forefront/world-without-aca-s-
preventive-services-protections-impact-i-braidwood-i-decision
Change in Implementation Phase of ACA:
On March 30, 2023, a federal district court judge issued a
ruling that had a profound impact on the implementation of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The ruling
enjoins the government from enforcing ACA requirements that health plans cover and waive cost-sharing
for high-value preventive services. This change immediately eliminates the guarantee of benefits
Americans have enjoyed for 13 years, potentially causing millions to lose access to no-cost early cancer
screenings, mental health assessments, statins for heart disease, PreP to prevent HIV and other critical
preventive services.
Source and Nature of the Change:
The ACA's preventive services mandate changed due to a judicial
decision in the case of Braidwood Management v. Becerra. The plaintiffs challenged the constitutionality
of the ACA's preventive services provision, arguing that the expert bodies responsible for recommending
the services were not constitutionally appointed. The district court partially agreed with this argument,
invalidating any services recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) since March
23, 2010, the date of the ACA's enactment. This change was brought about by a judicial decision that
impacted the law.
Impacted Agency and Level of Government:
The impact of the Braidwood ruling affects primarily those
with private health insurance. It throws Americans who obtain insurance through an employer or directly
from an insurer into a state of uncertainty. The change affects private insurance, which various entities
regulate depending on the type of insurance. The federal government regulates self-funded employer-
sponsored insurance (ESI), while fully insured ESI offered by both large and small employers is subject to
state and federal regulation. Individual-market health plans are purchased directly through insurance
companies or ACA Marketplaces, with some state laws incorporating the ACA's preventive services
benefit. This change impacts the private insurance industry and the individuals relying on it for
healthcare services.
Expected Impacts:
The change has far-reaching implications, and its consequences will depend on the
source of insurance. Eliminating the ACA's mandated benefits could lead insurers to discontinue
coverage for preventive services or impose cost-sharing. Consumers will likely face uncertainty and
confusion regarding their insurance coverage and potential cost-sharing. Providers may also be uncertain
about whether their recommended preventive services will remain cost-free, leading to potential delays
or avoidance of essential care. Cost-sharing, even in small amounts, is known to deter consumers from
using services, mainly high-value preventive services, and could significantly impact public health.
Discover more documents: Sign up today!
Unlock a world of knowledge! Explore tailored content for a richer learning experience. Here's what you'll get:
- Access to all documents
- Unlimited textbook solutions
- 24/7 expert homework help