The Impact

"Under new plans, no child under age 19 will be denied coverage for a pre-existing conditions, period. Adults who have been without insurance for six months and who have been unable to obtain insurance because of a pre-existing condition, can apply for coverage under the Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan (PCIP)."

Insurers can no longer cut someone after the fact.

New screening procedures are now in place for health care providers to eliminate fraud and waste in the health care system.

Medicare Part D enrollees who hit the Medicare prescription drug benefit gap in 2010 will automatically receive a $250 rebate check.

Effective immediately, qualified small employers get tax credits of up to 35% of premiums for offering coverage.