In 2022, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services issued a request for information on updating Essential Health Benefits requirements, marking the first time comments have been sought since 2014. This move comes as Senator Tim Kaine and Senator Tammy Baldwin advocate for updates to the Affordable Care Act, specifically focusing on Essential Health Benefits, which are a set of categories that health plans under the Act must cover, including mental health services and prescription drug coverage.
Sarah Bedard Holland, CEO of Virginia Health Catalyst, warns about the growing medical debt crisis and how many adults are facing financial strains due to the lack of coverage for certain essential health services. Nearly 580,000 Virginians are burdened with medical debt, with dental benefits being optional for adults but mandatory for children. The Department of Health and Human Services recently finalized a policy allowing all states to include adult dental services as part of the Essential Health Benefits benchmark starting in 2025.
Colin Reusch, policy director of Community Catalyst, notes that coverage gaps in Affordable Care Act plans have led to disparities and it is important to make health care more inclusive. However, the challenge lies in the divisive nature of Congress, which may hinder efforts to come to an agreement on updating benefits. Previous legislation had aimed to eliminate Essential Health Benefits for some beneficiaries but was later revised to include additional plans.
The senators believe that expanding health benefits is crucial, especially in a post-pandemic landscape. They argue that access to essential health services should be comprehensive and accessible to all Americans regardless of their financial situation or geographic location.
It is unclear what changes will be made to Essential Health Benefits requirements in response to this request for information from the Department of Health and Human Services. However, one thing is clear: healthcare remains a contentious issue in America, with many advocates pushing for reforms that prioritize accessibility and affordability.
As policymakers continue their discussions on updating Essential Health Benefits requirements, it is important for consumers to stay informed about any potential changes that may impact their healthcare coverage. It is also important for individuals who are struggling financially due to medical debt or lack of insurance coverage to seek out resources such as non-profit organizations or government assistance programs that can help alleviate some of these burdens. Ultimately, ensuring that all Americans have access to affordable and comprehensive healthcare will require ongoing efforts from policymakers and advocates alike.
