Federal Issues
In the largest single expansion of health insurance since enactment of Medicare and Medicaid, Congress enacted the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. The Affordable Care Act provides broad concepts and direction, though much of the implementing detail over the next couple of years will come through the regulatory process. The Washington State Hospital Association will continue to analyze the impacts on hospitals.
When fully implemented, the Affordable Care Act will extend health insurance to about 32 million people. About 95 percent of legal residents or 92 percent of people residing in the country will have health insurance or coverage. The cost of the Affordable Care Act is about $940 billion over 10 years, financed through cuts to health care providers and new taxes.
Washington's Congressional Delegation Contacts
Washington State Health Insurance Exchange
Description and summary of Washington State's work on the implementation of the Affordable Care Act provisions regarding a health insurance exchange. Includes external liks to sites containing additional information about the exchanges.
Communications
Presentation materials to assist in educating hospital staff and community on the impacts of the Affordable Care Act. Included is a WSHA model Powerpoint presentation and talking points for CEOs prepared by AHA.
WSHA Web Casts
WSHA's Health Care Reform web cast series on preparing for Accountable Care Organizations, a conversation with Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler, and the Washington State Multi-Payer Medical Home Reimbursement Pilot.
The Law and Impacts on Hospitals
Detailed and brief summaries of the Affordable Care Act, along with a timeline and links to external resources.
Delivery Reforms
Description, analysis and updates of delivery reforms in the Affordable Care Act - includes information on ACOs, bundled payments and medical homes. WSHA ACO summary and comment letter to CMS now available!
Additional Resources
There are many informative resources to help consumers and health care providers learn more about the Affordable Care Act. Included are sites to visit for additional information.
Comment Letter on Medicaid Plan Assignments
