By Emily McKinley, Health Information Specialist Shortly after the election, President Obama and his administration showed the nation that health care remained a priority by issuing three proposed rules, which regulate the implementation of health care reform. Those rules included guidelines prohibiting discrimination against individuals with chronic diseases and pre-existing conditions; parameters outlining the standards of coverage in regards to essential health benefits; and measures to encourage expansion of employee wellness programs. The first rule, prohibiting insurance market discrimination on the basis of pre-existing conditions and chronic illnesses has been a long anticipated provision of the ACA. This rule will be fully implemented in 2014. It outlines that Americans will be guaranteed insurance coverage regardless of previous or current health, treatments, or other factors, and further guarantees that individuals will be able to maintain their coverage even in
Family Voices Indiana is a family-led organization that provides information, education, training, outreach, and peer support to families of children and youth with special health care needs and the professionals who serve them.