from the Committee on Publication, U.S. Federal Office:
Beginning in 2014, under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), virtually all Americans will need to have a medical health insurance plan that meets federal requirements or pay a tax penalty. (Those who are enrolled in Medicare or another government health plan will be treated as complying with the law; those enrolled in an employer-sponsored health plan should check with their employer to confirm whether the plan is ACA-compliant.)
So, like other Americans, Christian Scientists must think through their options under the ACA and how to comply with the law.
Here is some information you may find helpful:
Christian Science coverage not included in state exchanges for 2014
Over the past two years, the U.S. Federal Office has diligently worked to secure the inclusion of Christian Science health care services in health insurance plans offered at the state insurance marketplaces. We are deeply grateful for governmental receptivity to insurance coverage of this kind.
However, because of the time crunch that insurance carriers experienced because of state and federal governmental delays, it ultimately was not possible for Christian Science health care services to be included in the state exchanges for 2014.
Congressional exemption solution still uncertain
The U.S. Federal Office continues to pursue a legislative solution with Congress that would enable those with sincerely held religious beliefs against purchasing the required medical insurance to apply for an exemption.
There is strong support for this solution among members of Congress; however, we cannot guarantee that Congress will act on the legislation this year. As always, please consult our website for periodic updates, and let us know if you'd like to help with these efforts!
Related items recently posted to our website
- A metaphysical perspective on health care from Board of Directors member Margaret Rogers (replay of her remarks during our September 24 online audio town hall: "The ACA and you")
- Regular updates to our ACA FAQs
2014 ACA decision flow chart
Looking for some guidance as you think through your options regarding the health care reform law in 2014? Check out this flow chart we’ve created for informational purposes (the Church does not provide legal advice).
Massachusetts residents may also want to check out our MA-specific informational flow chart.
Questions?
Visit http://christianscience.com/member-resources/committee-on-publication/u.s.-federal-office for ACA FAQs, resources, and more, or to subscribe to our newsletter.
If you are unable to visit the website and your question is not answered in this email, contact us at federal@csps.com or 202-296-2190.
“Divine Love always has met and always will meet every human need.” (Mary Baker Eddy, Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, p. 494:10-11)
“All is under the control of the one Mind, even God.” (Science and Health, p. 544:16-17)
