AARP Health Law Guide

En español | This guide will help you find resources tailored to your needs, whether it's about Medicare, health insurance coverage for you or your family, or public programs that may work for you.

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Your Insurance Status

The Affordable Care Act is a health care law that protects people who have insurance. The law also makes it easier for some people who do not have health insurance to find coverage.

All you need to do is answer a few simple questions and you can learn what the new law means for you.

Glossary

Health Law Timeline

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  • 2010

    Lifetime limits on coverage are banned. Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plans begin. Young adults can stay on their family's health insurance. More

  • 2011

    50% discount on brand-name drugs in the doughnut hole. Medicare covers more wellness & preventive care. Insurance companies must spend more on health care services. More

  • 2012

    50% discount on brand-name drugs in the doughnut hole. Higher quality Medicare Advantage plans receive bonus payments. More

  • 2013

    52.5% discount on brand-name drugs in the doughnut hole. More

  • 2014

    52.5% discount on brand-name drugs in the doughnut hole. Health Insurance Exchanges begin. Those with limited income get help with insurance costs. More

  • 2015

    55% discount on brand-name drugs in the doughnut hole. More

  • 2016

    55% discount on brand-name drugs in the doughnut hole. More

  • 2017

    60% discount on brand-name drugs in the doughnut hole. More

  • 2018

    65% discount on brand-name drugs in the doughnut hole. More

  • 2019

    70% discount on brand-name drugs in the doughnut hole. More

  • 2020

    Medicare Part D doughnut hole is completely closed. More

The information you enter into this guide is kept confidential -- AARP will not share information you provide to us with anyone. This guide is educational and not intended to provide health coverage advice. Although AARP will make every effort to provide accurate information, we cannot guarantee its accuracy. We suggest that you discuss your individual situation with your State Health Insurance Assistance Program or your human resources representative.