Patients who have disagreed with their health insurance company will now have the government supporting their right to an appeal.

Thanks to new regulation from Congress, patients in all states will have the right to dispute decisions made by their health insurance company. The government is also granting states up to $30 million in funds to help establish consumer assistance offices.

U.S. Departments of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius says that a consumer's right to dispute a decision made by their health insurance provider gives them greater control over their care.

"Today, if your health plan tells you it won't cover a treatment your doctor recommends, or it refuses to pay the bill for your child's last trip to the emergency room, you may not know where to turn," says Sebelius. "The Affordable Care Act provisions announced today will provide patients with new important new rights and resources that will help ensure they get the care they need."

Maine's Bureau of Insurance recommends that consumers ask plenty of questions when selecting a health insurance provider. They recommend inquiring about rate changes with age, prescription coverage and co-payments, to name a few things.