Social Insurance

Better Care for Less: How the Affordable Care Act Pays for Itself and Cuts the Deficit

September 6, 2011 COMMENTARY BY: Maggie Mahar TOPICS: Social Insurance, Continuing Health Care Reform

The Congressional Budget Office has concluded that the Affordable Care Act (ACA), signed into law by President Barack Obama in the spring of 2010, will more than pay for itself, provide coverage for 32 million uninsured Americans, and trim federal budget deficits by some $210 billion over the ten years ending in 2021. In this issue brief, Maggie Mahar synthesizes the relevant numbers and offers in-depth analysis of exactly how the ACA will both strengthen health insurance protections and save money.

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Social Insurance

Social Insurance

Compared to other advanced nations, America’s retirement security and health care systems offer weaker protections against risks we all face. The Century Foundation’s work focuses on ideas for strengthening Social Security, pensions, and health care – including steps for building on the Affordable Care Act.

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Greg Anrig
Greg Anrig

Greg Anrig is vice president of policy and programs who writes on employment and retiree benefits; Social Security solvency and reform; economic security; education; and tax reform.

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