Health Care Reform Summary

Are you confused about what the recent health care reform will do, especially in regards to people with disabilities? Julia Day of the World Institute on Disability put together a very useful summary of the bill, with concise explanations of the changes to insurance regulations, Medicaid, etc. In particular,

• By 2014, insurance companies will no longer be able to deny anyone coverage because of a pre-existing condition.

• Before the end of 2010, costly treatments for ongoing medical conditions will be protected from lifetome coverage caps previously imposed by insurance companies.

• The disability determination process to become eligible for Medicaid will be shortened and simplified.

• Starting October 1, 2011, the Medicaid Community First Choice (CFC) Option will give states the option to allow people with disabilities who are eligible for institutional care to choose community-based services instead.

• Starting in 2012, the Community Living Assistance Services and Support Act (CLASS Act) will provide for voluntary, self-funded, long-term care insurance through the workplace...This program will make long-term in-home support services more affordable, and will help people with disabilities remain in their homes and communities.

For more detailed bullet points, you can read the original document on Scribd: http://www.scribd.com/doc/29791241/2010-04-02-Health-Care-Reform-Article