If the saying “what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger” is true, the Affordable Care Act should be the “Ironman” of laws by now.    As the new law gains strength, so does our health care system and that it worth celebrating.

In the last year, the Affordable Care Act withstood a Supreme Court challenge, a continuing barrage of unfair pot shots, threats to defund or repeal it and flat out rejection by some Governors who refused to fully implement the law and bring home the benefits of the new law for their constituents.   But the Affordable Care Act persevered and has won over some former detractors along the way.

The Affordable Care Act was able to surmount these challenges because it is based on a strong core – the principle that people should have reliable, affordable health coverage that will be there for them even if they get sick or lose a job.  Americans want a fairer health care system where they won’t be discriminated against if they have a pre-existing condition or charged more based on their gender.  They want insurance companies held accountable and they don’t want to face bankruptcy due to medical bills that aren’t covered by their plans or because they weren’t able to secure affordable coverage.  Slowly but surely, people are starting to realize the benefits of the new health law as provisions gradually take effect and they learn more about the improvements about to be put in place.

The best is yet to come …

In its fourth year, the Affordable Care Act enters a new phase and will reach two major milestones:

• In 2014, more uninsured people will gain coverage in states that accept federal funding to extend Medicaid coverage for those earning up to 133% of the federal poverty level. It’s likely that more states will realize what a good deal the Medicaid option is for their residents and will accept the new Medicaid option offered by the Affordable Care Act.
• In October, the Health Insurance Marketplace will open its doors with coverage beginning in 2014. The Marketplace will allow individuals and small businesses to compare health plans on a level playing field. Premium tax credits will be available to many low and moderate income families.

While there are more obstacles to overcome to make the promise of the Affordable Care Act a reality for everyone, the durable new law will once again persevere and prove the naysayers wrong.  This year, the new law has even more friends and supporters to help it reach its full potential.

Happy Anniversary ACA.