LAWS TO KNOW

You have rights, no matter what type of insurance you have. Knowing these rights can help get you the right treatment. Here are laws to know regarding your health insurance.


ACA

The Affordable Care Act is a comprehensive healthcare reform bill enacted in 2010. It prohibits discrimination in health insurance coverage based on pre-existing health conditions, allows young people to stay on a parent’s or guardian’s health insurance until age 26 and establishes the health insurance marketplace for the purchase of individuals health insurance coverage that meet minimum coverage requirements and do not have annual or lifetime benefit caps.

ADA

The Americans With Disabilities Act prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in employment, state and local government, public accommodations, commercial facilities, transportation, and telecommunications.

COBRA

The Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA) allows you to keep your health insurance policy if you are losing or changing jobs.

ERISA

The Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) requires insurance providers to disclose plan benefits and governs private health insurance provided by self-funded institutions.

FMLA

The Family Medical Leave Act (FLMA) provides you with the right to take time off work to address family medical issues.

GINA

The Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) prohibits insurance providers and employers from discriminating against you on the basis of your genetic information.

HIPAA

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) protects your personal information and outlines standards for how it can be shared.


Having issues with coverage? The A.C.C.E.S.S. Program provides legal advice and assistance to individuals with chronic health conditions including pulmonary hypertension. Visit the A.C.C.E.S.S. program site.