As we mark the second anniversary of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, many Americans are still unsure about what the law does and how it benefits them. While there has been much debate recently about contraception coverage, many do not realize the conversation arose because the law requires coverage of family planning services as a preventive measure. This is certainly an important aspect of the health reform law, but it is only the beginning. The law goes to historic lengths to expand insurance options, cover preventive services, and lower costs. For instance, the law also guarantees maternity coverage, includes screenings for breast and cervical cancer, provides supports for nursing moms, eliminates so-called “pre-existing condition” exclusions for Caesarean sections and domestic violence, and prohibits insurance companies from charging women higher premiums. More than 20 million women have already obtained preventive services under the new law, and millions more are sure to benefit.
Please join the Center for American Progress Action Fund for a lively and informative discussion of the many benefits the Affordable Care Act provides to women.