President Barack Obama signed the Affordable Care Act into law in 2010, making individual health insurance more accessible by providing subsidies to lower-income Americans.
The law also encouraged states to expand Medicaid programs and required that all plans cover a comprehensive list of free preventive services. As a result, millions more Americans now have access to health coverage.
1. Alaska
Under Democratic Governor Bill Walker, Alaska’s state legislature is testing out ways to fix Obamacare 3,000 miles away from Washington. They’ve passed legislation that redirects federal money previously used for premium subsidies into a reinsurance program in Alaska’s individual market.
Reinsurance programs help keep premiums under control, but they come at a cost. According to estimates, in 2018 alone the state will lose $51.6 million in premium subsidy payments from the federal government.
2. Connecticut
Connecticut is not only part of the New York metropolitan area, but it’s also one of the wealthiest states in America. It’s renowned for its high incomes and quality of life as well as home to esteemed Yale University.
On January 9, 1788, Connecticut was admitted to the Union and has since been defined by its trade and manufacturing industries. These sectors remain a major portion of the state’s economy today; however, growth in financial services, insurance companies, and real estate has helped offset some of the downturns experienced in heavy industry.
3. Idaho
Idaho is among many states taking control of their health insurance market away from the Affordable Care Act. Their plan to allow insurers to offer an alternative health plan that doesn’t conform to federal law has raised concern among legal experts and consumer advocates who support the law.
This state’s plan is an ambitious step that could pave the way for other conservative states to go against Obamacare coverage rules. Additionally, it poses a risk to federal regulators.
4. Massachusetts
Massachusetts, once a major manufacturing centre during the 19th century, has since turned its attention to service industries and health care expansion. As a result, Massachusetts boasts an unusually high rate of people with health insurance coverage.
To achieve this goal, the state passed a series of reforms including Medicaid expansions and Commonwealth Care, which is subsidy-supported. Furthermore, they created the Health Connector which functions as an exchange. If implemented by other states, these measures are expected to result in substantial decreases in uninsured rates as well as improvements to access and health.
5. New Hampshire
New Hampshire is a small Northeast state that has plenty to explore. From Daniel Webster’s birthplace in Franklin to the White Mountains National Forest and Lake Winnipesaukee, there’s something for everyone in New Hampshire.
Since the Second World War, the state’s economy has evolved considerably. Electrical and other machinery, textiles, stone products, clay products, as well as high-tech industries now make up most of its manufacturing sector. Furthermore, due to a favorable business climate and low rates of poverty, unemployment, and crime within the state itself, tourism is flourishing.
6. New York
Manhattan, the United Nations or Wall Street: New York is a state that boasts much to offer. This bustling metropolis serves as an epicenter of commerce, politics and cultural influence alike.
New York stands out in the health insurance market place by creating the NY State of Health (NYSOH). Here, residents can shop for budget-friendly health plans.
Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), New Yorkers are mandated to have health insurance or pay a penalty – this is known as the individual mandate.
