So are the Americans without health insurance insured now?

Ha ha! Hardly.

No… we will in a few years time be required to buy private health insurance (with some receiving subsidies from the government) or be subject to a fine. Naturally those receiving health insurance as a government benefit (military and civilian government employees, e.g.) are exempted.

In related news, “beefburgers” are still $.99

Nope. Damnit. Medicaid is being expanded so more people are caught in the net, but no universal healthcare over here. Oh no! Wouldn’t want to help other people, that’d be un Amurican!

/end rant

i need a cookie

So what does it all mean? does it mean that some un insured person not old enough to get SSI or whatever can walk into the local clinic and get treated?

It’s complicated, like we do. Basically, medicaid is expanded; government subsidies to help people buy healthcare; no more pre-existing conditions and all are required to have coverage or pay a fine. All of this to start filtering in slowly over the next four years. SSI is a separate entity and will operate as planned, IIRC.

Here is a basic run-down.

thanks @gemiwing

No but they will make you be insured by 2014. wether you can afford it or not.

Let’s fine the poor. How lovely.~

@jonsblond ..really, they cant afford food or shelter so lets fine them for that too. makes me sick.

that’s why there are subsidies and medicaid is being expanded. not perfect, but it’s something I suppose

whats medicaid