Timeline
2010
- January 1: 4 million small businesses eligible for tax breaks
- April 1: Federal matching funds allow states to cover more people on Medicare
- June 1: Rebate checks distributed to seniors to cover the prescription drug "donut hole"
- September 23: Insurance companies prohibited from rescinding coverage due to sickness or clerical error
- September 23: "Lifetime limits" on insurance coverage eliminated
2011
- January 1: Medicare "overpayments" to big insurance companies reigned in
- January 1: Insurance companies required to spend over 80% of premiums on patient care
2012
- October 1: Transition to cost-saving electronic medical records begins
- October 1: CLASS program launches to provide financial support to disabled adults
2013
- October 23: CHIP funding expands to insure more children
2014
- January 1: Low-income Americans now eligible for Medicaid
- January 1: Insurance companies prohibited from discriminating against those with pre-existing conditions
2015
- January 1: Physicians' pay adjusted to value quality of care over volume of care
"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.
Video
America's new health care law makes it easier for you to find the quality, affordable health care that you and your family need.
