HealthCare.gov

HealthCare.gov is the first U.S. Department of Health and Human Services central database of health coverage options, combining information about public programs (e.g., Medicare, Medicaid) with information from more than 1,000 private insurance plans. Consumers can search online for health insurance options specific to their life situation and local community. Healthcare.gov also has information about the Affordable Care Act (health care reform). The Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan, a new program that is part of the Affordable Care Act, makes health insurance coverage available to persons who have been denied coverage by private insurance companies because of a pre-existing condition. Consumers also have access to quality rankings for hospitals via a Hospital Compare interactive Web tool. In the fall of 2010, price estimates for health insurance plans will be available online and all new health insurance plans will be required to cover evidence-based preventive services, including screenings and vaccinations, at no cost.