As a result of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, millions have signed up for health plans through the health insurance exchanges, with more than 80 percent of new enrollees eligible for subsidized coverage. The reform law has also had a significant impact on enrollment in Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program. With all of the new opportunities for low- and middle-income people to gain health coverage, some hospitals and health systems are making significant changes to their charity care programs. However, for those who don’t qualify for subsidies or Medicaid, the scaled back financial assistance programs are leaving them with no options for help with their medical bills or their health insurance premiums.
