Implementing health reform measures, specifically the extension of coverage under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA), should help eliminate racial disparities in healthcare outcomes, access and coverage.
The North Carolina Justice Center recently noted that such disparities have long been a lingering issue in the state despite attempts to address them. Medicaid expansion and the other changes which are coming may change that in a number of ways. Extending coverage to more people, proponents say, should reduce the cost, meaning that many who could not afford insurance in the past will be able to now. Having coverage tends to encourage people to seek preventive care rather than waiting until a health issue cannot be ignored, so outcomes may be improved as well.
The report also notes that Medicaid expansion is expected to help communities which have historically been underserved, in particular. Many of these communities are populated by minorities. The improvements in health and cost savings should benefit all concerned, however, according to the report.
Employers still waiting for information
With some provisions being implemented and the deadlines for others approaching, some employers are still holding off on making further decisions about their employee benefit policies and plans for the future. Part of this is due to uncertainty, as many companies are still trying to understand how the coming changes will affect them. This is particularly true of smaller organizations, CFO Magazine reports.
Many are weighing the advantages and disadvantages of continuing to offer coverage, compared to the costs of paying the penalties of choosing not to do so. Others are attempting to determine whether the issue applies to them, which may depend on how certain workers are classified. Despite some guidance from the Internal Revenue Service, many employers say more information is still needed. Until it is forthcoming, many companies and employees may remain uncertain concerning their future with regards to healthcare.
