Summary
The article discusses how the ongoing government shutdown in the United States is impacting the health care industry. It explains that if Congress does not extend Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium tax credits, many Americans could face increased health insurance premiums, and more people could become uninsured. This situation poses financial and operational challenges for hospitals and health systems.
Key Facts
- The U.S. government has been in a shutdown for 43 days, impacting various sectors, including health care.
- A proposed deal could end the shutdown, allowing health care regulatory activities to resume.
- About 24 million Americans obtain health coverage through ACA marketplaces, with many relying on subsidies.
- If ACA premium tax credits expire, premiums might increase significantly, potentially doubling for some.
- The Congressional Budget Office estimates that 4.2 million people might lose coverage if the credits are not extended.
- Hospitals may face financial strain due to an increase in uninsured or underinsured patients.
- Safety-net and rural hospitals are particularly at risk from the expiration of the subsidies.
- Congress is likely to discuss extending the subsidies in December, but no decision is guaranteed.
