I think there are many, many problems with the ACA, however, there are a few good news stories. One of my workers got sick over the summer. We watched him go downhill all Fall and into the Winter. He did go to the Doctor but didn't get any answers on what was causing his illnesses. Some thought Lyme Disease or some other tick borne illness (babiosis?). Finally in January he got in to see a doctor at Hershey Med center and was immediately hospitalized, diagnosed with a heart infection and a leaking valve. After weeks of anti-biotics and open heart surgery to repair the valve, he is recovering and almost back to his old self.
The difference? In January he finally got coverage that he could afford. Even though he was offered coverage from our company, it was not affordable on his pay check and doesn't provide good coverage. He bought Himark/Blue Shield off the exchange and suddenly all sorts of care was available. Maybe he would have been admitted by Hershey without the insurance, but then again, maybe they would have given him more antibiotics and sent him home like the others did.
Anyway, we're happy that he is recovering and if it is in part due to the new insurance then, I'll give it one in the plus column.