Trending News Today: AHCA Could Impact Employer-Sponsored Health Plans

In Los Angeles, CA, caregivers for patients with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia are offered a free session that discusses stress management, home safety, and how to handle dementia-related difficult behavior, according to Kaiser Health News. Caring for patients with these conditions can take a toll on the physical and mental health of caregivers and may increase the likelihood of the patient being transitioned to nursing home care, the article noted. By providing education for the caregivers, the session aims to improve the health of the caregivers and the patients.

The creation of a working group to discuss the American Health Care Act (AHCA) may be an attempt to smooth tensions across the Republican party, according to The New York Times. Since there are only 2 Senate votes to spare, the unification of GOP lawmakers has become crucial to the success of the proposed legislation. However, some moderates are not likely to vote in favor of the bill due to concerns regarding the health of their constituents, the Times reported.

While the AHCA would have the largest effect on those purchasing individual insurance and those insured through Medicaid, it could also change employer-sponsored plans. The AHCA could allow employers to increase premiums or even stop offering health coverage, according to The New York Times. Additionally, the law could also lessen regulations about worker’s benefits and capping how much employees can pay out-of-pocket for healthcare. However, these changes are at the discretion of the Trump administration, individual states, and employers.