It is important for healthcare providers to know that the various parts of ObamaCare are implemented over several years. After full implementation, healthcare providers will have more control over patient decisions, less uncompensated care and denied payment for patients.
Between 2010-2012 healthcare providers started to see changes in healthcare due to ObamaCare. ObamaCare implemented various changes including coverage for young adults on their parents insurance through the age of 26, new incentives for nurses, primary care doctors and physician assistants, among other things.
This year many more changes are being implemented. In 2013, Medicaid reimbursements increase to match Medicare rates for primary care services. Further, in 2013, ObamaCare improves preventive health coverage by providing new funding to state Medicaid programs that choose to cover preventive services for patients at little or no cost .
ObamaCare implementation continues in 2014. In 2014, insurers will be prohibited from discriminating due to pre‐existing conditions in adults. This allows healthcare providers to care for patients who will continue to have coverage without regard to whether the condition existed prior to the time the patient got insurance coverage. Further, insurance companies will be prohibited from placing an annual cap on the patient’s coverage. These changes will allow the healthcare provider to be paid for more services.
Further in 2014, healthcare providers with small private practices will be able to join together with other small businesses to purchase health insurance through competitive health insurance marketplaces. This will provide small healthcare providers more competitive choices for their own health insurance.
As these changes are implemented, patients may be confused. Healthcare providers can refer patients to 1-800-318-2596 with questions about coverage or for assistance in enrolling in a health plan.
Also, as ObamaCare becomes fully implemented, healthcare providers will have increased Medicare payments. Medicare will cover more preventive services as well as other covered services.
All healthcare providers should continue to inform themselves about the ObamaCare specifics so they don’t miss opportunities along the way.
Tell us how you are keeping informed about ObamaCare? Share your ideas with us by clicking on the comment button below. We’d love to hear from you.
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