President Joe Biden recently signed two executive orders that aim to strengthen access to affordable health care. Among the actions was an executive order focused to expand enrollment in the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and Medicaid, and a memorandum rescinding regulations on reproductive health access.
Biden’s executive order on healthcare access is positioned to increase access to the Health Insurance Marketplace. Biden’s order also calls on the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to reopen enrollment period in 36 different states from February 15 through May 15.
The goal is to provide coverage for those who are uninsured and make it available for those who lost their coverage and jobs during the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to a fact sheet from the White House, Biden’s executive order directed federal agencies to reexamine the following:
- Policies that undermine protections for people with preexisting conditions, including complications related to COVID-19;
- Demonstrations and waivers under Medicaid and the ACA that may reduce coverage or undermine the programs, including work requirements;
- Policies that undermine the Health Insurance Marketplace or other markets for health insurance;
- Policies that make it more difficult to enroll in Medicaid and the ACA; and
- Policies that reduce affordability of coverage or financial assistance, including for dependents.
We will continue to put together healthcare plans to help your employees’ benefit while keeping you updated on all noteworthy healthcare and employee benefits changes at the federal and state level. Contact us today for additional healthcare resources.