The bar on preexisting conditions only worked if everyone was required to buy insurance, thus resulting in a broad distribution of health risks in the market. Contrary to the statement from McSally’s office, the bill is silent on preexisting conditions; it simply leaves that language in the ACA untouched. One is guaranteeing access for people with pre-existing conditions, which this bill does. In fact, because insurers could not turn away sick people, they might offer plans with relatively few benefits, raising the question about whether the bar against preexisting conditions was only symbolic.) But it was a key part of the stool that allowed for one of its most popular parts — the bar on insurance companies considering preexisting conditions.

Source: Washington Post March 23, 2017 06:56 UTC