How did the Affordable Care Act affect Medicare?

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) significantly impacted Medicare by expanding benefits and addressing prescription drug costs. One of its key provisions was the gradual closing of the "donut hole," which is a Medicare Part D coverage gap where beneficiaries would initially have to pay a higher percentage of their drug costs. By reducing out-of-pocket expenses for prescription medications, the ACA aimed to make treatments more affordable for seniors and improve their access to necessary medications.

Additionally, the ACA introduced preventative services without cost-sharing requirements, enhanced care coordination for chronic conditions, and aimed to improve quality of care within Medicare. These changes were designed to strengthen the Medicare program and ensure that beneficiaries received better value and care. This focus on expanding benefits aligns with the overall goal of enhancing the healthcare experience for older adults, making the choice about benefits expansion a logical and accurate reflection of the ACA's contributions to Medicare.