Controversies have ruled over the US health care industry, since President Barack Obama turned the health care bill into a law. The federal health care reform requires every single individual to have health insurance by 2014, or else they will be penalized with additional tax. Republicans had flared up and challenged the decision, stating that such a step is unconstitutional. Arguments revolve around the fact that whether or not the federal government has the right to force people into buying health insurance.
Nevertheless, it has been found out that the new regulation won't create a big crisis in the health care industry. That is because the majority of the people is expected to comply with it, and most amongst the rest will be exempt from its clutches.
Why the health care reform shouldn't be much of a concern
The mandatory health insurance shouldn't be treated with apprehension since:- Individuals aged 65 years or more - They will abide by the new mandate since they are eligible for Medicare.
- Individuals under the age of 65 - 80% of them are insured under their employment group plans, individual health insurance policies, Medicare, Medicaid or under federal and state plans for low income people.
- For those without insurance protection - 40% of the people, who don't have health insurance are exempted from the tax penalization.
Who all are exempt from penalization by the new mandate?
The new regulations will not be applicable for certain sections of the US population. The individuals who won't be charged penalties for not having mandatory health insurance include:- Undocumented immigrants
- Certain religious groups
- Native American tribes
- Prisoners
- Low income people (Individuals with income of $9,500 or less and married couples with income of $19,000 or less are exempted from penalization).
- Individuals who have to pay more then 8% of household income as their health insurance premiums (even after employer contribution and federal subsidies).
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