In case you hadn’t heard, the United States of Representatives passed a health care reform bill on Sunday. You might think that this legislation doesn’t affect you, but there are actually a couple of key points that are important to young people.
I’ve included the actual facts that go along with the bill, along with my own thoughts and opinions. Feel free to ignore my personal opinions.
Effective 6 Months From When President Obama Signs the Bill
1. Young adults can stay on their parents’ insurance plan until they are 26 years old. Currently, many insurers kick off dependents when they turn 19 or finish college.
My thoughts: Good move. While it’d be great if we lived in a perfect world and colleges graduates got a job with benefits ASAP, we simply don’t. This should provide a good safety net for young adults.
Effective Starting in 2014
2. Insurance companies are prohibited by denying people coverage based on pre-existing conditions.
My thoughts: Another good move. Before, someone could be diagnosed with a chronic illness during their childhood, and then not be eligible for insurance once they were removed from their parents’ plan.
Without diving too much into my opinions, I will say that I’m glad health care reform is finally going somewhere. The current system is ridiculous in so many ways. I’m hoping this bill leads the way for smarter, cheaper, and better healthcare for all.
