Noteboom The Law Firm

Healthcare Legislation and It’s Impact on the Disabled

The recently passed healthcare legislation will have both positive and negative impacts on the disabled. Two of the most powerful pieces to pass through legislation are the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010. These will greatly affect healthcare coverage for people who are suffering with disabilities.

Within these pieces are provisions that will be beneficial to the disabled. For instance, many people who apply for Social Security disability have to wait an extended period of time before receiving benefits. Those who are denied benefits sometimes have to wait months or years. It is financially devastating to those who are waiting with either limited income or none at all, along with those who have either limited medical coverage or none at all.

With new legislation, the disabled will have access to affordable healthcare coverage while awaiting Social Security disability. In addition, the pre-existing condition clause will be eliminated. This will have a huge impact on millions of disabled Americans. This country should conceivably reach a point where there will no longer be a denial of coverage because of a pre-existing condition.

On the other hand, those who rely on Medicare may find that with this healthcare legislation there are fewer coverage options. Starting in 2011, payments to Medicare Advantage-a plan that is more affordable and offers more coverage options-will be frozen. Under new legislation, some disabled Americans won't be able to afford Medicare Advantage.

Don't wait for the new legislation to take effect. If you or your loved is suffering from a severe physical or mental disability, you should contact a Social Security Disability lawyer immediately to learn about your rights and determine eligibility. The process of securing Social Security Disability and/or Supplemental Security Income benefits can be difficult and overwhelming. Don't go it alone! The attorneys at LaVan & Neidenberg, located in Atlanta, Georgia, understand the inner workings of the Social Security Administration and will help you navigate the system. Call us today for a FREE legal consultation - 1-888-234-5758.