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Since theAffordable Care Actwas passed in 2010, 20 million additional Americans now havehealth insurance.
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Back when the ACA passed, that was certainly my experience.
As a newly self-employed freelancer, I could choose a plan through the market or go without coverage.
the part of the law that requires signing up for health care or getting a tax penalty.
What would I do?
How would I pay those bills?
Luckily, I never had to find out.
And unfortunately, Obamacare likely isn’t going to get any more affordable for people anytime soon.
“I got insurance through the ACA after my husband was laid off work.
I just pray my health is good.
I’m anxious to get back to the doctor.
We actually want to try for a baby after I get insurance.
I felt very misled by ACA.
For the first two years of ACA, I was eligible for insurance.
The first year, my premium was less than $2 a month.
I could not afford thisso no insurance.
They only take major medical, so no doctor visit for me.
I also amanemicand desperately need to get iron infusions, but that’s not going to happen.”
Hope K., 38
When I first looked for insurance, I found a really great deal.
With my tax credit, I ended up paying $65 a month with a $0 deductible.
I raved about it to family and friends.
The next-best plan was $170 a month, and the next cheaper option had a $5,000 deductible.
I’m doing pretty well financially but not well enough to more than double my monthly health care payment.
I agonized over the decision because I’ve hadstomach issuesin the recent past.
I’ll either pay out of pocket or visitPlanned Parenthood.
Melinda C., 26
I was able to get insurance through the ACA the first year.
But in year two, the premium tripled and the deductible went from $1,100 to $6,000.
Iwrote to my legislatorsand none of them had solutions.
One of my senators is a Democrat and the other is a Republican.
They both had excuses.
I have been financially drained because of this.
Marissa S., 33
Quotes have been edited and condensed for clarity.
Watch: 7 Ways You Didn’t Know Obamacare Affected Your Daily Life
