September 25, 2013. The New York Times highlights a consequence of the imperative to lower health insurance premiums under the Affordable Care Act: Insurance providers are lowering premiums by restricting provider networks. Those insured in health care exchanges will see smaller hospital and clinic networks. The health care providers, in turn, will see smaller payments for their work than they receive from traditional insurance. The limited options for the insured will become a hardship for patients in some states, who will have to drive 30-60 minutes to obtain care. Meanwhile, the House and Senate are expected to continue the fight to defund the government over the health care law. Call 712.226.4000 or email info@goosmannlaw.com to learn more about how this topic may affect you.