ABSTRACT
This chapter highlights the changes resulting from the passage of the comprehensive health reform law, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010, as modified by the Health Care and Education Affordability Reconciliation Act, and explores their implications for social workers and those they serve. It also refers to these Acts as the Affordable Care Act (ACA) or the 2010 health care reform legislation. The chapter begins with an overview and evaluation of health care policies and programs, because many of the factors that shape physical health care also shape mental health practice. It examines mental health policy in detail and discusses possible directions for improving health, including mental health policies and programs. The chapter addresses major challenges within the existing Medicare system. Under Medicare and Medicaid, most health care is provided privately but reimbursed publicly, with the federal government acting as insurer.
