What the Landmark Supreme Court Decision Means

Last week, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld all but one of the key provisions of the 2010 Affordable Care Act, more popularly known as Obamacare.  Many elements of the new law are already in place, and by 2014, Americans with preexisting conditions can no longer be denied health insurance and will be able to compare and shop for affordable health insurance through state-based marketplaces.

The Lupus Foundation of Northern California, along with its partners in the Lupus Research Institute National Coalition, has, through the years, been pushing for 4 key principles that are critical to lupus patients and others with chronic diseases, all of which are addressed in the new law:

• Insurance coverage available for all Americans, regardless of preexisting conditions.
• Elimination of lifetime caps on health benefits.
• Provisions dedicated to prevention and wellness and educating those with and at risk for chronic disease on best ways to manage and prevent illness.
• Dedication to eliminating racial disparities in chronic diseases such as lupus, which disproportionately affects minorities.

For a complete list of benefits under the Affordable Care Act, click HERE.

The one key provision of the new law that was not upheld by the high court is the expansion of the Medicaid program.  Health policy consultant IGNATIUS BAU, breaks it down in simple language.  Click  HERE.