JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- Many people are happy with the Supreme Court's ruling on President Obama's health care plan.
Dawn Josephson's 6-year-old son met the president last year as he tried to get out his message about his health care for all plan. Dawn knows first hand the struggle 50 million Americans are having right now. Her son was born with a rare eye disorder. After his surgery two years ago, they got a big surprise. "A few months later, our policy was canceled," said Josephson.
Her story is one President Obama used to tell Americans why the health care plan needed to change. When Dawn heard the news about the Supreme Court's ruling, she could only imagine the weight lifted off families shoulders. "Real families are struggling, and health care is a huge relief," said Josephson.
Baptist Hospital President and CEO Hugh Green has supported the change right from the start. "The system as we know it is not sustainable," said Green.
He broke down the changes and how the plan will work. Green says for people who already have insurance from their employer, you probably won't see any changes. If you don't have insurance, you'll be required to get it by 2014 or face a penalty. Some people will be able to buy plans out right from insurance companies. Other people will be eligible under Medicaid. Green says there would be new taxes on insurance plans and tanning salons to help pay.
The other big thing, insurance companies won't be able to drop you if you have pre-existing medical conditions, like Dawn's son. She says that just makes it a whole lot easier for families across the country. "I'm really glad to see this day come," said Josephson.
There is another big point. Young adults can now remain on their parents health insurance plan until they're 26 years old.
If you don't get insurance by 2014, the penalty will be $285 per family or 1 percent of income, whichever is greater. It goes up to $2,085 in 2016.
