(WASHINGTON) — The American people remain split on the Patient Protect and Affordable Care Act. However, the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled it constitutional and beginning August 1, several key parts of the legislation go into effect.
Starting Wednesday, most insurance companies will be required to provide FDA approved contraceptives at no cost. As a result, 47 million women will have access to free contraceptives, according to the Department of Health and Human Services.
The following is a list of the eight preventative services women will receive without co-pays starting Wednesday:
- Annual wellness exams
- Screening for gestational diabetes
- Testing for the human papilloma-virus or HPV
- Counseling for STD infections
- Screening and counseling for HIV
- Contraception
- Breastfeeding support, supplies & counseling
- Screening and counseling for domestic violence
Also by August 1, health insurance companies have to refund $1.1 billion in premiums to nearly 13 million customers nationwide.
The "80/20 rule" requires insurers spend at least 80% of customers' premiums on health services and no more than 20% for administrative costs. For example, if an insurance company spends 75% of what it collects on health care, it must send rebate checks for the additional 5%.
However, not all rebates will come in the mail. Companies can refund credit cards used to pay premiums or discount future premiums.
