In 2010, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) enacted some
opportunities for comprehensive health reform. The ACA has provided new coverage
options for many Americans who otherwise were without access to health insurance.
Starting in 2014, the ACA expanded Medicaid eligibility for those between 19 and 65
years old who had an annual income under 138% of the Federal Poverty Level.
The ACA requires that everyone be enrolled in health insurance unless they qualify
for an exemption. Low-income enrollees may be eligible to receive subsidies to help
pay for premiums and other cost-sharing obligations that are part of the ACA.
Those who do not meet any of the exemption criteria and do not enroll in a health
care plan may have to pay a penalty. Whether or not you choose to purchase insurance
through the Health Insurance Marketplace (Exchange) is a personal decision.
Most states have designated organizations and individuals to serve as Navigators to
help guide patients through this process. There are available resources which may
assist you in determining potential insurance plan(s) that may meet your needs.
These are available at www.healthcare.gov.
An annual benefit verification check may find that you are eligible for Medicaid or
state assistance program coverage for prescription products. Therefore, you may not
be eligible for the Bausch Health Patient Assistance Program.
We encourage eligible patients to carefully evaluate all their options and discuss
these with your family, patient advocate, healthcare provider, or others who can
help you make a choice that is right for you.