A Future for the Affordable Care Act?

The Affordable Care Act faces an uncertain future under Donald Trump, but Austin nonprofit Foundation Communities assures us Obamacare won't disappear in 2017. Contracts remain in place with insurance companies to guarantee at least one more year of the ACA's current structure. Its existence through 2018 remains uncertain. "People should be confident that they'll have insurance for the year," says FC program director Elizabeth Colvin. While some rates are increasing and certain plans have been canceled, there may still be a more affordable option. Once a plan is selected, Colvin insists prices will remain the same unless the client's income changes. "Don't assume it's too expensive or it's not going to work. We don't want people to think it's going to go away and miss out on this opportunity. They cannot dismantle the ACA overnight," she said. Central Texas residents are eligible for 30 plans through three companies (Ambetter, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Sendero). Open enrollment runs now through Jan. 31. Those intending for their plan to take effect Jan. 1 must sign up by Dec. 15.