What’s Next for the Affordable Care Act?

The Affordable Care Act (ACA, or “Obamacare”) has given millions of citizens access to healthcare they didn’t have before, driving up volume in some urgent care centers and emergency rooms. It’s also put sometimes unbearable pressure on insurers to find a way to stay profitable in the state-run exchanges; most that originally participated have bowed out because they were losing too much money, in fact. With the election of Donald Trump as our next president, proponents and opponents of the ACA both believe change will be forthcoming—and fast, once Trump is sworn in. Given that Congress is also leaning Republican these days, any item on the Trump agenda is expected to have a good chance of being approved. If your urgent care center has a stake in the game, get in touch with your senators and House representatives to let them know how possible repeal of the ACA would affect your business. The Urgent Care Association (UCA) has stepped up its lobbying efforts in recent months; member urgent care centers should also consider letting their concerns know by contacting UCA directly.