Question

Discuss how transition from the ACA to the American Health Care Act could affect public health and ultimately population health. (10 Points)

Answer 1

The law's goals were to reduce the number of uninsured, make coverage more affordable, and expand access to care. To accomplish this, the law expanded eligibility for Medicaid and created new marketplaces where people without employer coverage could buy policies directly from insurers. It uses a carrot and stick approach to promote enrollment. Most adults are required to have health coverage or pay a fine; and moderate-income individuals receive premium subsidies to buy policies in the new marketplaces. So overall number of insured people increased.

American Health Security Act, introduced by Senator Bernie Sanders in 2011. The plan Will  replace the ACA as well as Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP with uniform, single-tiered coverage managed by the federal government. The plan would not allow private health insurance. There is little or no cost sharing for enrollees. There will be no subsidy or penality which was there in affordable care act that will lead to increase in number of uninsured population. This will indirectly impact public health as people will be reluctant to avail health care services because of cost. Public health may worsen as people will try to visit hospital only at the time of emergency.