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
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"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)."
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Insurers can no longer cut someone after the fact.
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New screening procedures are now in place for health care providers to eliminate fraud and waste in the health care system.
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Medicare Part D enrollees who hit the Medicare prescription drug benefit gap in 2010 will automatically receive a $250 rebate check.
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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.
