President Obama’s signing of the healthcare reform act into law on March 23 was a historic event. The big question many ask is how does this affect me?
GuideStone has been providing health plans for Southern Baptist churches and ministries for more than a half century. During that time, we have seen many changes in how healthcare plans are designed and how they are administered. Health insurers like GuideStone expect to be given ample time to adjust their products and processes to comply with any new legislation. As we have done in the past, we will stay abreast of all issues that relate to health plans sponsored by GuideStone.
Any significant changes to the U. S. healthcare system will take time to implement. Various provisions in the new law have long lead times before becoming effective. For example, certain provisions are set to become effective in 2014. GuideStone anticipates that the nature and scope of this legislation will be a key area of focus for years to come.
There is still much to be done to understand the impact on health coverage in general and church health plans (such as the program provided by GuideStone) in particular. GuideStone, along with other denominations, is actively evaluating the details of this development, and continues to work diligently to make known to Congress the unique nature and needs of church health plans and the past provisions that have enabled church plans to serve their participants.
We don’t know what the future will hold; several state attorneys general have filed suit, claiming the legislation is unconstitutional. Some provisions in the new law are as of yet unfunded. As we wait for more details, this commitment we make: We pledge to remain informed as events unfold and to keep our participants abreast of issues as we continue to be an advocate for you and your ministry.