Nearing the end of 2013, we’ve seen tons of regulations, public comments, changes and an insane amount of political posturing. It’s enough to make your head spin and it’s no wonder the country is in a tizzy. As we close out 2013 and the start of the open enrollment period of the exchanges this month of October, as well as look to the changes and implementations that will begin in 2014…just a couple of months away, it’s time to get serious if you’re in the construction industry and make sure you’ve got all your ducks in a row.

First, assess what you’ve got going on. How do your current plans and offerings compare to the requirements of the ACA? Believe it or not many companies are in fact already in compliance with the ACA, just because of how their benefits are structured and therefore will see very little impact this next year. Of course, many other business will see a huge impact. So, find out where you stand to obtain a good perspective on what you’re going to need to do.

Secondly, make sure you pay attention to new implementations as they arise but don’t trust everything the media says! Take the media with a grain of salt and figure out the facts as they’re related to you. With such a highly politicized topic as the ACA, it’s easy to get lost in the circus. Pay attention to the facts and ignore the rest.

Lastly, realize that the ACA WILL in fact affect your business. There’s no doubt about it. However, you are in control of just how much impact it will have. Pay attention to the details and get them right and you will be in compliance…all ducks in a row and ready to go!