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ACA Repeal Bill Goes Dark: What Independent Physicians Need to Know

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ACA Repeal Bill Goes Dark: What Independent Physicians Need to Know

ACA Repeal Bill Goes Dark: What Independent Physicians Need to Know March 24, 2017

Earlier today, Republican legislators abruptly decided to withdraw a bill that would have repealed and replaced the Affordable Care Act (ACA) or Obamacare. The decision comes after Republican leaders were unable to garner enough support to move forward.

Now that the legislation has been scrapped, the ACA remains in place and the potential consequences of the replacement bill are on hold for the foreseeable future.

What does this mean for independent physicians?

The ACA, a double-edged sword for independent physicians, remains the law of the land which means the estimated 16 million patients insured under the law will retain their health insurance.

At the same time, the efforts to reform or replace the ACA are likely to continue.  Independent physicians still have the opportunity to play a role in health care reform by voicing their opinions and partnering with healthcare advocates to implement small practice-friendly reforms.

Likewise, direct primary care (DPC) physicians have a lot to gain if pro-DPC legislation, like policy that would allow health savings account (HSA) holders to pay for DPC expenses with their HSAs, is passed.

No matter what the future holds in terms of healthcare reform, Elation is here to help and advocate on your behalf. We’re dedicated to keeping independent physicians in the know and providing the resources you need to help you understand policy changes without losing time with your patients.

Talk to one of our health policy specialists to learn more about upcoming policy changes.