Exploring the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, pl 111-148: implications for newly covered populations and services in Humboldt County

The purpose of this research is to take a closer look at the most recent reform to health care coverage and policy implemented in 2013, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act PL 111-148. More specifically, this research is a review of the literature on what the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act means for newly covered populations and services, which in turn will inform local agencies and the service providers of Humboldt County. Humboldt County utilizes a Systems of Care service delivery approach, which is an inter-agency collaboration that provides families with a broad and integrated process to meet their diverse needs. Individuals involved in systems of care, like Child Welfare Services, Public Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drugs, etc., may now have better access and coverage to much needed services. This research can provide information on what the current health care reforms are and how they may potentially impact the children and families of Humboldt County.