Online Program

Oral

Significant federal, state and local investments and effort have been made to establish health insurance exchanges as the federal government and states prepare for open enrollment in subsidized health insurance coverage beginning October 1, 2013. Additionally, nearly half of states have indicated that they will expand Medicaid coverage to low-income uninsured adults. What do these and other health insurance reforms mean and how will they impact maternal and child health (MCH) populations, particularly those who are vulnerable and low-income? What are and need to be the roles of the MCH professionals who serve this population? This session will explore and discuss the impact of the ACA on MCH populations and the role of public health professionals during and post open enrollment. Session Objectives:

Session Objectives: As a result of this presentation, participants will: 1.Increase their knowledge of key issues and consideration in the implementation of the Affordable Care Act and their impact on women, children, including children and youth with special health care needs, and their families. 2.Describe essential roles for public health leaders particularly MCH professionals in assuring the health of MCH populations in this new health care environment. 3.Identify strategies that states and communities can use to optimize implementation of the ACA for MCH populations. 4.Describe action steps that our public health community and the American Public Health Association need to take to assure that ACA implementation considers the unique needs of MCH populations.

CE Credits: Medical (CME), Health Education (CHES), Nursing (CNE), Public Health (CPH) , Masters Certified Health Education Specialist (MCHES)