Trending News Today: ACA Repeal May Lead to Higher Insurance Premiums for Older Adults

A recording of a conversation from the GOP annual retreat shows that the lawmakers are not in agreement about moving forward with the Affordable Care Act (ACA) repeal or a replacement plan, according to The New York Times. The Republicans expressed concerns over time constraints set by President Donald Trump, and how it may affect health insurance markets. Despite the many provisions that will likely be repealed, keeping the 20 million Americans who are covered through ACA marketplaces insured will be difficult.

The Trump Administration reversed their action to halt outreach efforts that remind individuals of the approaching ACA open enrollment deadlines due to serious backlash. The new version of the directive allows the US Department of Health and Human Services to contact eligible individuals through email, text, phone calls, and Twitter, according to The Washington Post. The directive also allows previously purchased advertisements to be aired on television or online.

Repealing the ACA may affect elderly patients insured through Medicare more than previously thought. Under the ACA, Medicare Part D was expanded to allow these individuals to receive more affordable medication so they would not skip doses, which could lead to higher costs, according to NPR. Also, if the ACA is repealed, it may lead to higher insurance premiums for older adults solely based on age.