Employee Benefit News for School, City and County Employers

AHIP: Changes needed to Affordable Care Act

Written by Valerie Ortiz | Jun 12, 2014 4:00:45 PM

The Affordable Care Act hasn't arrived without its fair share of scrutiny, but insurers are calling for a change to President Barack Obama's law that would give financial assistance to those purchasing bare-bones coverage, the Associated Press reported.

"What is crucial for public policy leaders is to balance access and affordability," said Karen Ignagni, president of America's Health Insurance Plans, according to the source. "Unless people feel that coverage is affordable, they won't participate in the system."

The proposed changes would be attractive to those who are a part of a younger generation and for those who are healthy, the source cited. The change would help keep premiums affordable for older generations since they are more likely to use the coverage more often.

Ignagni also argued that the ACA should make it easier for patients to locate hospitals, doctors and which plans and medications are covered, the source added.

"We intend to work with all stakeholders to provide consumers with greater peace of mind in the new marketplace," Ignagni said, according to The Hill.

It's not certain how the proposed plans will be considered, but it could give lawmakers who want to appeal the ACA a better chance to modify it and make changes.