No one really knows! It seems that revisions are made by the hour, and nothing is quite set in stone as of yet. Also (as of this hour) 11 states have filed lawsuits stating that the bill is unconstitutional, in that it forces people to pay for coverage or face financial penalties. Does it promise to cover all Americans? Supposedly, by 2014, after spending the next few years inching towards this goal by means of guaranteed issue policies, no lifetime maximum amounts, the cessation of policy rescission’s, etc. Once this is in place, individual policies would be purchased via an exchange:
Archive for the ‘Federal’ Category
Health Care Reform is here! What does this mean for you?
Monday, March 22nd, 2010Brown's Victory & What it Means for Health Care Reform
Tuesday, February 2nd, 2010Health Care reform faced yet another setback as Massachusetts State Senator Scott Brown received 51.9% of the vote needed to fill late Senator Kennedy’s seat in the US Senate. This now makes the Republican head count 41, thereby bringing the 60-count Democrats were relying on to pass the health care reform legislation to an end. Brown’s strong statements regarding the negative portions of the bill, such as higher taxes and the destruction of jobs, played a major role in his political success. However, ironic that he fills the seat of a major proponent of universal health care, many are breathing a sigh of relief as the thought is while health care reform is much needed, it is something that needs to be dealt with carefully – not a “fix it later” attitude.
Is There a Answer for COBRA Subsidies?
Monday, January 18th, 2010High Deductible Health Plans and HSA’s Growing in both Group & Individual Markets
Wednesday, January 6th, 2010According to studies done in 2010, High Deductible Health Plans increased significantly in both the group and individual markets. Many found that taking on higher out of pocket plans greatly reduced their premiums, while not affecting first dollar benefits, such as preventive care or doctor office visits. It was shown that individual enrollment in HDHP’s increased from 39% in 2007 to 51% in 2010. Numbers were similar when reviewing group enrollment in HDHP’s. It is believed that as more information is provided to potential enrollees of HDHP’s regarding the benefits of adding on a health savings account, more people wanted to take advantage of the tax benefits as well. Overall, many feel that these plans gave them more control over their health care needs and costs as a whole.
Expiration Date Nears for COBRA Federal Subsidy
Monday, November 2nd, 2009Let us help you find alternate coverage before your COBRA expires. There are many options for you and your family, and we are happy to help you determine whether a new plan is the best route, or to stay on COBRA for the remainder of your eligibility period. It is our pleasure to help you determine the best choice for your health insurance coverage.
No Premium Increases for Medicare Part B in 2010
Monday, September 28th, 2009The Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008
Wednesday, September 2nd, 2009The MHPAEA applies to Large Group plans; both self-funded and fully insured, and works to prevent the placement of dollar limits on mental health care. Instead, it ensures that mental health benefits and substance use disorders are covered just as any other medical or surgical benefits.
The Argument Against Government Run Health Plans
Sunday, June 14th, 2009While many people think the answer lies in a Government run health insurance plan, but there is also a negative side to the theory. While the idea of health coverage for all is a dream worth pursuing, we need to make sure the quality of coverage is not sacrificed in doing so.
Currently, there are state and government run plans in place, such as Medicaid and children’s health insurance. While these programs benefit many people who would normally not have any coverage at all, concerns lie in the fact that there are lower reimbursement rates to providers, thus resulting in less access to doctors.
Obama’s plan is to allow those who have a plan they already like to keep their current coverage. However, should Employers have the choice between current higher premiums, or a lower cost option of the Government run plan, the lesser of the two would be elected. Therefore, employees would now be subject to a plan with more limited access to providers, and could possibly lose their current doctors altogether.
In terms of the doctor’s themselves, they may refuse the low reimbursement rates altogether and decide not to accept any insurance. Lower compensation would also means cuts in care and staff at your doctor’s office. Would-be physicians may decide to pursue more lucrative careers, instead of dealing with the red-tape of a government dictated medicine.
Help for Uninsured Californians!
Wednesday, May 20th, 2009Many Californians don’t have medical coverage, and are unable to qualify for health coverage due to pre-existing conditions. However, it is important to know that there are options you may qualify for:
Medi-Cal
Medi-Cal is California’s version of the federal Medicaid program. This program will pay for health services for California residents that qualify based on income and assets. Eligibility is determined by the Department of Health Services through its sub-agency Department of Public Social Services.
Access for Infants and Mothers (AIM)
The program is designed primarily for uninsured low income pregnant women and their infants who do not qualify for Medi-Cal. Since individual health plans will not approve you for coverage if you are currently pregnant, this provides an excellent opportunity for coverage.
Healthy Families Program
California, the Stimulus Package, and You
Wednesday, May 13th, 2009We have all heard by now that the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, also known as the Stimulus Package should bring some much needed relief to the State of California. As the unemployment rate jumps to historic highs, and millions of Californians find themselves also without health insurance, it is vital that federal agencies step up to the plate. The goal is to obtain health coverage assistance, increase the quality of health care, and invest in health-related technologies.
So what does this mean for us? According to American Recovery and Reinvestment Act analysis, some of the major health care provisions are:



