When Does the New Affordable Health Care Plan Go into Effect?

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Asked September 4, 2012

1 Answer


It depends on which specific health care plan is being referred to. However, assuming the question refers to the Affordable Care Act (ACA), also known as Obamacare, which is a federal law in the United States that reformed the healthcare system, the following information may be useful: The Affordable Care Act was signed into law on March 23, 2010, and many of its provisions were phased in over time. Some key provisions of the law that have already gone into effect include:

  • Prohibiting insurance companies from denying coverage to individuals with pre-existing conditions
  • Allowing young adults to stay on their parents' insurance until age 26
  • Eliminating lifetime and annual coverage limits
  • Providing free preventive care services
The major provision of the ACA that was phased in gradually was the individual mandate, which required individuals to have health insurance or pay a penalty. This provision was in effect from 2014 to 2018, when it was repealed as part of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. There have also been other changes and updates to the ACA over the years, including changes to the open enrollment period for individuals to enroll in insurance plans through the ACA marketplace. In summary, the ACA has been in effect since 2010, with many provisions phased in over time. However, there have been updates and changes to the law over the years, and it's important to stay up-to-date on the specific provisions and requirements that may apply to you.

Answered September 4, 2012 by Anonymous

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