The Affordable Care Act
The Affordable Care Act (ACA) was enacted in March 23, 2010, to increase the quality and affordability of health insurance, lower the uninsured rate by expanding public and private insurance, and contain the rising costs of health care for individuals and the government. Since the passage of the ACA, CMS has turned its attention to awarding value of care over the volume of services provided to patients by encouraging innovation and quality care improvements. APTA is committed to keeping members abreast of any changes that may be made to the ACA, especially those that impact our members and their patients.
Expansion of Coverage
The ACA expands health insurance coverage through use of the Health Insurance Marketplaces and the expansion of the Medicaid program population. Additionally, the ACA creates protections for coverage, such as "guaranteed issue" and restrictions on certain coverage limits.
Alternative Payment Models (APMs)
Alternative payment models enable clinicians and practices to be rewarded for providing collaborative care while taking on some risk related to their patients' outcomes..
Payment Changes and Linking Payment to Quality
The ACA makes refinements to payment systems and links payment to quality of care. Access resources on payment changes and updates on the latest reimbursement issues and trends.
Association Health Plans
Association health plans (AHPs) are traditionally an option for large employer groups to offer health coverage to their employees. However, regulatory changes in 2018 expanded AHP criteria to allow more employers to join together to form association health plans and offer tailored coverage to their employees. Notably, these plans are not subject to the same minimum coverage requirements under the Affordable Care Act.
Fact Sheets and Summaries
Fact Sheet: Association Health Plan (.pdf) - 7/9/18 