The Affordable Care Act has been around for several years. Despite heavy opposition, it has performed well. More Americans have health insurance than before the bill passed. However, it’s still plagued with a myriad of myths and misconceptions about Obamacare.
Some misconceptions are fairly innocuous, but others can be dangerous. The spread of misinformation, which could lead to someone not signing up for health insurance, is a problem. We’re going to review some of the common myths and misconceptions when it comes to the Affordable Care Act to clarify any questions you may have.
Obamacare and the Affordable Care Act Are Different
False. The two terms are often used interchangeably and that can be confusing. The official name for the bill passed is the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) of 2010. The term Obamacare was coined by Republicans who opposed the bill, it was a term of disdain rather than deference. Regardless of what you prefer to call it, these two terms are in fact referencing the same piece of legislation.
Most Americans Want to Repeal Obamacare
There are definitely some Americans that feel Obamacare isn’t the nation’s best choice for healthcare. Others wish the bill could be further improved. But at the root of people’s disapproval of the Affordable Care Act is the lack of comprehensive knowledge about it.
The bill is filled with hundreds of provisions and when someone doesn’t approve of Obamacare, it’s often because they have an issue with a particular provision. Since most people don’t have the time to read the bill in its entirety, we rely on politicians and media to inform us. Like clockwork, they will cherry pick provisions to make their case.
While there are Americans that truly want to repeal Obamacare, more Americans approve of it, despite its shortcomings.
Obamacare Is Government Run Health Insurance
Obamacare is not a health insurance company. The government does not create health insurance plans for individuals. Obamacare regulates the health insurance industry and helps individuals obtain quality health insurance at an affordable price.
Families and individuals still buy health insurance from private carriers like Blue Cross or Oscar. But instead of having to pay exorbitant prices or being denied coverage due to pre-existing conditions, Obamacare makes sure that people get the health insurance they need.
You Must Use the Government Marketplace
No one is forced into using the the health insurance exchange. If you have health insurance from your employer or an existing plan, you make keep it. Even if you are eligible to use Obamacare, you can choose to buy your health insurance from a private carrier, through an insurance agent.
The government marketplace is designed for people who are uninsured or need a new plan. The law requires that everyone has health insurance, there is no provision forcing you to use the government marketplace. If you do need health insurance, it can make your life much easier.
The Government Marketplace Doesn’t Work
When the site first launched, Healthcare.gov didn’t work properly. It was slow and people had a hard time signing up for health insurance. Unfortunately, this experience has perpetuated itself and caused people to believe that the health insurance marketplace still doesn’t work properly.
The federal government’s Healthcare.gov has improved in the years since its launch. Millions of Americans have used the site to sign up for health insurance. This shouldn’t be a reason why you don’t sign up for health insurance through a government marketplace.
Obamacare is not supposed to be a secret. It’s not meant to scare you. It’s supposed to help you if you’re uninsured and need health insurance. If you have more questions regarding your health insurance, you can reach out to an insurance agent who is able to answer your specific questions.