It's all about the implementation: How health reform's implementation details will impact persons with disabilities and chronic health conditions

Despite the recent vote for repeal and the legal challenges, the Affordable Care Act remains in effect and moving forward. The federal government is working on the complex system of regulations needed in order to implement the reforms. Work also has begun at the state level to investigate the best systems for state implementation. While language in the law has created some hope of improvements for persons who have disabilities or chronic health conditions, for example elimination of preexisting conditions and creation of additional community based options, it remains to be seen whether or not the final outcome of reforms will benefit all segments of the population. Recent language in California's “Bridge to Reform” has caused concern for disability groups. Under California's section 1115 waiver persons with disabilities will be required to sign up for managed care for the explicit purpose of coordinated care and saving the state health care dollars. Disability advocacy groups have voiced concern. This talk proposes to analyze the process in California in regards to issues of equal protection, ADA compliance, and access to appropriate care. In addition, other states will be examined for similar concerns that arise in real time and apply the same analysis to other situations implicating the same populations. The talk will conclude with discussion of possible advocacy and regulatory/statutory solutions to any perceived roadblocks to quality health care for all populations.