How Does Obamacare Affects Elective Procedures?

Obamacare is officially here.Ready or not, the United States has now officially added itself to the list of numerous countries that offer healthcare in some way, shape or form to all of its citizens. Some believe that access to Obamacare (public healthcare), no matter your life circumstance, is a right and not a privilege and for those, the implementation of the new law is a celebratory event. On the other side of the coin, there are many in our country that find themselves outraged at such a massive logistical undertaking, feeling as though the U.S. cannot afford to take on the fiduciary nightmare of ensuring that we are all insured by Obamacare.

While the average American is generally up for a debate about whether the Affordable Healthcare Act(Obamacare) is merited, many are unaware of the great intricacies of the new law. The simple reality is, however, that for every citizen outraged, there is another rejoicing over the opportunity to address long-standing ailments or perceived healthcare needs that they previously could not afford to fix. But what if you’ve had your eye on a procedure or health improvement that you want but don’t necessarily need? Elective procedures like Boob jobs, Penile Enlargement and the Lap-Band are obviously out, but one question raised by the new Obamacare is, ‘how will the new law establish a standard for what is covered and what is not?’

Obamacare Standards of Coverage

If you’ve been considering an elective procedure, take a look at the list below, which highlights ten simple standards of coverage. As the U.S. goes through the trial and error period of implementing and tweaking the new system, simple metrics like this are a good way to weigh whether or not its time to fix that Deviated Septum. Of course, for full Obamacare coverage details, you should consult a physician and your insurance plan.

1. Ambulatory patient services
2. Emergency services
3. Hospitalization
4. Maternity and newborn care
5. Mental health and substance use disorder services, including behavioral health treatment
6. Prescription drugs
7. Rehabilitative and habilitative services and devices
8. Laboratory services
9. Preventive and wellness services and chronic disease management, and
10. Pediatric services, including oral and vision care

So, are you in? Out? Still not sure?... As with any new policy or law enacted in a democracy. The best way to get information about obamacare and establish a feedback loop is to create a dialogue. Sound off in the comments to let us know if you think your procedure is or should be covered...