Document Type
Working Paper
Date of This Version
9-1-2015
Keywords
Affordable Care Act, forensic economics, tort awards, lawsuits, health insurance
Abstract
This paper examines how the Affordable Care Act might affect the analysis of future care costs in medical malpractice, product or accident liability, or workplace injury cases. Prior to the ACA, it was reasonable to presume that a great deal of a victim’s future health care costs would be paid for out-of-pocket as there was little guarantee that the plaintiff would have access to affordable insurance. Since January 2014, however, a plaintiff can obtain insurance that will cover a significant portion of any future medical costs. This paper examines the basic structure of the ACA, how it has affected health insurance markets, and provides examples of how the ACA might be introduced into an analysis of future life care costs. In addition, case law regarding the application of the ACA is examined as well as arguments for and against considering the availability of health insurance in medical litigation. Finally, additional details regarding the application of the ACA by the practicing forensic economist are addressed.
Working Paper Number
1506
Recommended Citation
Congdon-Hohman, Joshua and Matheson, Victor, "Potential Effects of the Affordable Care Act on Loss Calculations" (2015). Economics Department Working Papers. Paper 154.
https://crossworks.holycross.edu/econ_working_papers/154