The creation of state-based health insurance exchanges, expected to launch in each state in 2014, is a key element of the expansion of insurance coverage under the Affordable Care Act.

The exchanges will serve as a marketplace where individuals and businesses can shop for private insurance, comparing prices and benefits across private health plans.... »

One of the controversial elements of the Affordable Care Act is creation of the Prevention and Public Health Fund, which sets aside about $15 billion to finance public health programs over the next decade. Under the program, the Health and Human Services department awards grants for projects that prevent illness or promote health. For example, since 2010,... »

The patient-centered medical home, which has been promoted by primary care organizations for decades, is finally getting some attention under the Affordable Care Act.

The concept, which calls for greater coordination of care and a team-based approach, is one of several care delivery improvement ideas being tested under the new health law.

Dr. Roland A.... »

The Affordable Care Act includes $11 billion in new funding to significantly expand the reach of federally qualified health centers, known as community health centers. The bulk of the funding – $9.5 billion – will be used to fund new health centers and to expand patient capacity at existing centers. Over the next 5 years, that funding is expected to double... »

Reducing preventable hospital readmissions is one goal of last year’s health reform effort. The Affordable Care Act tests ways to bring readmissions down, including a new Medicare pilot project called the Community Based Care Transitions Program. The 5-year pilot, which began earlier this year, offers funding to hospitals and community-based... »

The Affordable Care Act includes several provisions aimed at highlighting the importance of primary care. One provision aims to increase the number of primary care physicians by shifting more residency positions into primary care and general surgery. Under section 5503 of the ACA, hospitals must give up a portion of their unused residency slots to go... »

Physicians have long sought an overhaul of the nation's tort system in the hope of reducing the financial and emotional costs involved with medical malpractice. The Affordable Care Act took a small step by funding demonstration projects to develop litigation alternatives. The law provides $50 million to states for 5-year grants in fiscal year 2011, which... »