Women's health and health reform: implications of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act

An overview of provisions in the 2010 health reform legislation with implications for women's health and obstetrician-gynecologists. Between now and 2014, provisions of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) will expand access to health coverage, primary care, and preventive services. Other provisions relate to federal abortion funding, medical liability, and disparities. From a life-course perspective, ACA makes it feasible to link preconception, prenatal, family planning, and other care in a seamless continuum for women of childbearing age. Now is the time to implement a comprehensive well woman standard of care.