What does Obamacare mean to you?

OBAMACARE!!!  It's a word that strikes fear into some, smiles onto others and confusion onto most! What is The Affordable Care Act?  Who does it affect?  Is it good?  Is it bad?  One blog isn't enough to tackle these questions, but we'll try and answer a few of them today!

Is there really a 716 billion dollar raid on Medicare to fund Obamacare? 

No, plain and simple.  Let me explain the dollars and cents of what's going on with this magic 716 billion-dollar number. Medicare Advantage plans and hospitals are paid capitations (a set monthly dollar amount per beneficiary) and bonus dollars. Obamacare has a provision in place starting 2013 that will only pay these bonus dollars if the plans and medical providers meet minimum quality standards.  That means if an Advantage plan doesn't meet minimum star ratings, and medical providers don't meet the standards in place, they won't get a bonus.  Those dollars are then spread out over ten years and that's how we answer the 716 billion dollar question.

Do all men really have maternity coverage on their health insurance?  

Yes.  Although science shows I will never be able to have a baby, I have that coverage on my health insurance.  That's whether I want it, or not…

I've heard that I can get health insurance with a pre-existing condition now, is that true?

Yes and no!  Today if you are under 19 and have a pre-existing condition, the health insurance company cannot turn you down.  If you are over 19, this starts for you in 2014.  According to