The Affordable Care Act and integrated care.

Abstract

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) of 2010 offers a comprehensive, integrated health insurance reform program for those who are eligible to enroll. A core feature of the ACA is the integration of primary health, behavioral health, and related services in a new national program for the first time. This article traces the history of past federal services integration efforts and identify varying approaches for implementing them to improve care, especially for underserved populations. The business case for integrated care, reducing escalating health care costs and overcoming barriers to implementation, is also discussed.