Monday, March 22. 2010Health care bill may force employers to reform insurance offerings
The health care reform bill will not lead to lower health insurance quotes for many employers, according to a recent column by Kiplinger's associate editor Martha Lynn-Craver. Rather, it might force them to re-evaluate their offerings.
Higher costs may be transferred to their workers in the form of increased deductibles, surcharges and copayments, according to Lynn-Craver. Unhealthy habits, like smoking, can lead to higher health care costs for many insurers. Some companies will take action to help employees cut back on this behavior by offering health improvement programs. "To avoid running afoul of federal antidiscrimination laws, businesses can't base penalties or rewards on results, but they can discount rates for participation," the column said. Those who refuse to adjust their unhealthy behaviors may for forced to pay higher premiums or purchase a health insurance plans with less benefits. Employers may use some of their own cost-cutting measures, like lower deductible or copayments, to encourage consumers toward healthier habits. Another popular payment option may also help companies trying to cut back on costs. Health-savings accounts are safe from taxation and can be paired with high-deductible health insurance plans. Introduced under the George W. Bush Administration, these plans are expected to increase in popularity as employers try to cut costs, according to the column.
Trackbacks
Trackback specific URI for this entry
No Trackbacks
|
QuicksearchCalendarRecent Articles
Categories |
