Affordable Care Act (ObamaCare)

In 2010, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) became law in the United States. The aim of the ACA is to significantly reduce the numbers of Americans who were not covered by health insurance. The ACA builds upon prior health policies, and the law should reduce poverty, with its chief focus on extending health insurance coverage.

However, the ACA is still in the process of implementation, and its ultimate effects on poverty reduction are not known. Poverty and health are connected in many ways. Poor health can limit a person’s earnings and impose unexpected expenses.

In addition, poverty can cause poor health by, for example, limiting access to nutritious food and adequate housing. Poor health can trap individuals in poverty, with little hope for escape. ...