The longest government shutdown in U.S. history has officially ended, allowing federal operations to resume. However, the end of the shutdown has not resolved the ongoing healthcare crisis that has been a focal point during the impasse. While hospitals welcome the reopening, significant concerns remain regarding healthcare affordability and the ramifications of the shutdown on public health. Lawmakers are now poised to address the lingering issues surrounding health insurance, as the battle over healthcare continues to escalate amidst the political fallout from the shutdown. With many Americans still anxious about their healthcare coverage, the future of the Affordable Care Act and other proposed reforms will remain at the forefront of Congressional discussions.