The future of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) is a significant topic of discussion in politics as the US prepares for the 2024 elections. Amid ongoing discussions about healthcare reform, Vice President Kamala Harris has pledged to protect and improve the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Looking back on the accomplishments and challenges of President Biden's first term, it is clear that her strategy for strengthening the Affordable Care Act presents a more optimistic future than the repeal-and-replace plan put forth by Donald Trump.
The progress made in increasing access to reasonably priced coverage must be considered when evaluating Harris' healthcare plan. The US healthcare system has never been in better shape despite the previous administration's relentless attempts to weaken the Affordable Care Act. Health insurance and Medicaid expansion Marketplaces have demonstrated the tenacity of the ACA's coverage provisions by acting as essential safety nets amid the turbulent COVID-19 pandemic. Millions of Americans now have access to vital healthcare services, and enrollment numbers have skyrocketed, in part because of legislative efforts like the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.
The Biden/Harris administration’s legislative initiatives have continuously demonstrated his dedication to strengthening the Affordable Care Act. Millions of Americans now have greater access to healthcare coverage owing to initiatives like the ARPA, which saw significant increases in premium subsidies for Marketplace participants. Additionally, the administration's proactive approach to using the executive branch's capabilities has produced noticeable results, such as increased enrollment prospects and improved customer experiences in the ACA Marketplaces. The Harris administration demonstrated determination to enhance healthcare access by reducing red tape and removing cost-related obstacles.
Vice President Harris' healthcare vision is centered on equity, as demonstrated by his initiatives to eliminate discriminatory laws and expand coverage for underserved populations. The administration's revocation of section 1115 protests, which enforced job requirements for Medicaid eligibility, is indicative of his commitment to advancing equity and inclusion in healthcare access. Moreover, programs designed to enhance maternal health outcomes and expand coverage to marginalized groups demonstrate a commitment to resolving systematic inequalities in healthcare.
With regard to the future, Harris’ healthcare reform plan is still bold and realistic. A comprehensive approach to healthcare reform is exemplified by the current administration’s initiatives to increase Medicaid and CHIP in addition to efforts to strengthen and enhance coverage in the private insurance market. The Harris administration is well-positioned to consolidate the gains made thus far by undoing measures that jeopardize the ACA's insurance reforms and completing regulations to improve Medicaid and CHIP.
On the other hand, unlike Harris' unwavering commitment to safeguarding the Affordable Care Act (ACA), Trump's healthcare plan is characterized by instability and inconsistency. The healthcare environment remains unpredictable due to Trump's inability to follow through on his promise to repeal and replace the ACA during his administration.
Trump's approach to healthcare lacks clarity and direction, which can cause anxiety for millions of Americans who depend entirely on the ACA for vital healthcare coverage. Although Trump has voiced intentions to dismantle the ACA, the lack of an alternative will leave many individuals and families uncertain about the future of their healthcare.
The growth of Trump's short-term health insurance policies, sometimes called "junk insurance," further complicated his healthcare policy. These plans may leave patients with enormous medical expenses since they do not provide basic consumer protections. By supporting such proposals, Trump is risking the healthcare security of millions of Americans and prioritizing short-term profits over long-term health results.
Trump's shifting views on abortion as the 2024 election draws nearer underscore the erratic nature of his health care plan. Trump's strategy lacks the consistency and stability required to instill confidence in the American public amid the political upheaval surrounding healthcare policy.
Vice President Harris' proactive approach to bolstering the Affordable Care Act (ACA) remains a ray of hope for millions of Americans, despite Trump's repeal-and-replace program, which failed to materialize into a cohesive policy framework. It's evident that the administration’s healthcare plan offers a more promising route to a future in which access to healthcare will be a fundamental right for everyone as we work through the difficulties of healthcare reform.
