The Five Keys to Health Reform's Success or Failure

Will it work? And how will it work? A guide to what the new law will mean for costs, Medicare, doctors, the states — and you

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Young Adults

healthcare young people

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The Upside: If you are 26 or younger, you may be able to get insurance through your parents' policy. If you buy coverage on your own in the exchanges, you will have access to cheaper catastrophic coverage. If you buy a traditional benefits package, you will pay less than those who are older.

The Downside: Traditional insurance purchased in the exchanges may cost more than what you can buy now, but you'll have to stay covered unless you qualify for an exemption.

30 percent of Americans ages 19 to 29 are now uninsured

See how to prevent illness at any age.

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