Health Insurance Quote - Politics & Legislation

Senator in support of regulations for health insurance rates

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:00:00 -0600

California Senator Dianne Feinstein recently signed onto a new ballot option that would give state regulators more ability to have say on health insurance rates, according to the Los Angeles Times.

The measure will be through a petition from consumers, in hopes that they can get 505,000 signatures necessary to get it added to the ballot during the November elections. This is not the first attempt to pass such measures, according to the news source. There have been multiple proposals in the past several years that have not been successful, and this could lead to a long dispute.

"I am proud to tell you that I was the first person to sign a new ballot initiative petition that will reform the health insurance industry in California," Feinstein said in an email, according to the news source. "[The initiative] would require health insurance companies to publicly justify their rates before rate hikes take effect."

The state is one of 17 in the United States that currently does not allow the government to have any say on health insurance rates, and how they are determined, the news source added.

Obama: Much of healthcare law will work if individual mandate overturned

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 18:00:00 -0600

The Obama administration recently informed the Supreme Court that the Affordable Care Act would be able to survive, even if the court announces that the healthcare coverage requirement is unconstitutional, according to Reuters.

The law is contested by more than half of the states, as well as other independent groups, but the administration claims that these people have not been able to prove that Congress would need to drop the whole law for just one aspect. There will be arguments heard in March before the future of the law is determined in June, the source noted.

"Many provisions of the act, focused on controlling costs, improving public health and other objectives, have no connection to insurance coverage at all," Donald Verrilli, solicitor general, wrote in the brief, according to the news source.

However, a representative of the National Federation of Independent Business noted to the administrators that the whole law would need to be canceled if that aspect is removed, the source added.

With the uncertainty of the healthcare law on the horizon, many consumers may not be comfortable with what the future holds. Comparing health insurance quotes now may lock in a plan that works for them.

Kansas leaders don't want to slow Medicaid changes

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 18:00:00 -0600

The state of Kansas does not have any plans to halt its changes of the Medicaid program, even though many lawmakers are not happy with the speed of the process, according to The Associated Press.

Sam Brownback, governor of The Sunflower State, plans to get the project in motion this year by giving three contracts to companies in preparation of the switch. The program is worth $2.9 billion, and the contract would take place in 2013.

"We don't want to hurt Kansas patients," Lieutenant Governor Jeff Colyer told the news source. "We want to make sure that they start getting the benefits now, and we're talking about tens of millions of dollars."

The state has approximately 380,000 people using one of the programs in a given month, the source added.

Consumers may be uneasy about the impending healthcare reform, especially if they use a government-sponsored plan. In the meantime, it may not be a bad idea to compare affordable health insurance rates, as there could be a plan that is inexpensive but has what a person needs.

Government attempting to put hold on healthcare rate rises

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 18:00:00 -0600

Recent health insurance rate increases by Trustmark Life Insurance Company forced the federal government to comment on the situation, requiring the organization to get rid of the hike, or explain why it increased rates.

Five states would be affected by the changes, including Arizona, Pennsylvania, Wyoming, Virginia and Alabama, according to the release. In total, close to 10,000 consumers would witness the rate hike. The new healthcare reform rules allow the government to force companies to explain increases in health insurance rates.

"Before the Affordable Care Act, consumers were in the dark about their health insurance premiums because there was no nationwide transparency or accountability," said Secretary Kathleen Sebelius. "Now, insurance companies are required to disclose rate increases over 10 percent and justify these increases."

While the federal government has the ability to question rate increases, many states have taken advantage of the power, as well, the report noted.

Even with these actions in mind, the full effects of healthcare reform are unknown. It may be a good idea for consumers to try to lock in affordable health insurance rates now before any more changes are enacted.

Healthcare reform most important health law topic

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 18:00:00 -0600

Health law practitioners recently announced that healthcare reform, mandating health insurance coverage for all Americans, may be the most important aspect of health law in the United States in 2012, according to Bloomberg.

The survey, which was completed by Bloomberg BNA's Health Law Reporter advisory board, showed healthcare reform is vitally important because of its many affects on all aspects of healthcare. In addition, fraud and abuse came in second and public options - such as Medicare and Medicaid - came in third. Other notable aspects that made the list were healthcare quality, health information and health plan regulation.

"Relying on their collective and comprehensive knowledge across a wide range of health law practices areas, including taxation, antitrust, fraud and abuse compliance, and Medicare reimbursement and compliance, they predicted that 2012 will be a blockbuster year for health law," said Peyton Sturges, senior legal editor in Bloomberg BNA's health division.

Those who are worried about the state of healthcare reform may want to preempt it by comparing affordable health insurance quotes. Grabbing a low health insurance rate could help avoid uncertainty.

Government gives funding to states for child health insurance

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 18:00:00 -0600

A recent announcement from the secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services revealed that President Barack Obama has awarded millions to fund states' attempts to increase health insurance coverage for children.

The president has awarded approximately $296 million to fund the Children's Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act, according to Kathleen Sebelius, the secretary of HHS. Since CHIP was reauthorized in 2009, more than 1.2 million children in the United States gained healthcare coverage. The money, which will be allocated through performance balances, will be awarded to 23 states that are eligible to receive it.

"More children now have the advantages health coverage provides," Sebelius said. "And parents now have the security of knowing their children can get the health care they need without worrying that an illness could leave them with a lifetime of medical bills."

If consumers are searching for a family plan, but for some reason are not qualified for a government-sponsored plan, it may benefit them to look for affordable health insurance quotes. There may be a private plan that has what they are looking for.

U.S. government to give states more power on healtcare reform

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 18:00:00 -0600

A recent report from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services noted that states will receive more power regarding the Affordable Care Act, if a proposal is accepted.

The new proposal would give states more autonomy to do what they perceive to be the best interest of their citizens, the report noted. This includes selecting a current healthplan offered in the state to use as the option to build off of for use in its healthcare exchange. The choice could be either initially tailored for state, federal and commercial options.

"Under the Affordable Care Act, consumers and small businesses can be confident that the insurance plans they choose and purchase will cover a comprehensive and affordable set of health services," said Kathleen Sebelius, secretary of HHS. "Our approach will protect consumers and give states the flexibility to design coverage options that meet their unique needs."

Those consumers who are uneasy about what healthcare reform can bring, may want to look for health insurance quotes that could help them secure a plan now. Many private plans are affordable and could be good options.

Labor Department considers addition to healthcare law

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 18:00:00 -0600

A recent proposal from the U.S. Department of Labor suggested two changes to the Affordable Care Act in order to help consumers who may be at risk of being defrauded when the plan goes into effect.

The changes are related to multiple employer welfare arrangements, which while useful to many small businesses, are susceptible to scams and other issues that do not allow these people to pay off their medical bills. This will protect consumers from being hurt by fraudulent activity, and it will also shut down problem MEWAs, that have been found to partake in such measures.

"Too many MEWAs are taking advantage of good employers who want to make health insurance available to their workers, and too many hardworking Americans have suffered," said Hilda Solis, secretary of the U.S. Department of Labor. "These proposed rules under the Affordable Care Act will crack down on those who want to use MEWAs to defraud American families."

Those who are concerned about the future of health insurance may want to compare quotes to find a plan that suits them. There may be many affordable health insurance quotes available.

Many Americans do not want healthcare law

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Sun, 20 Nov 2011 18:00:00 -0600

A recent poll from Gallup showed that nearly half of Americans are unhappy with the healthcare legislation set by the Obama administration.

A total of 47 percent of Americans are against the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, while 42 percent of those polled noted they are still in favor of it, the poll found. The other 11 percent had no opinion on the matter.

The healthcare reform bill is feared due to the fact it may change the healthcare industry by raising taxes, hurting businesses and mandating individual coverage. In fact, the act will be reviewed by the Supreme Court, with a decision expected next summer. This is due to a lawsuit that claims the law is unconstitutional.

Americans still noted that they would be in favor of some government intervention in health insurance, but that the current Obama-created bill may not be it, the poll found.

Due to affordable health insurance quotes possibly becoming harder to find if the act remains a law, many consumers may want to try to get a reliable health insurance plan to remove doubt, at least in the short-term, when it comes to sufficient coverage.

Supreme Court to hear case against healthcare law

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 18:00:00 -0600

A lawsuit against the Obama Administration's Affordable Care Act will be heard by the Supreme Court.

With this, the lawsuit, which claims the health insurance law is unconstitutional, will have one more chance. However, the highest court in the United States will only take the decision from the 11th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals into account. The decision was two to one and noted that the mandate in the law was not justified in some aspects.

However, the White House is confident that the law will be upheld.

"Earlier this year, the Obama Administration asked the Supreme Court to consider legal challenges to the health reform law and we are pleased the Court has agreed to hear this case, said Dan Pfeiffer, director of communications for The White House. "We know the Affordable Care Act is constitutional and are confident the Supreme Court will agree."

Consumers may be quite concerned about their healthcare situation if the law remains in place. For those who want to try to lock down a plan in the interim, it could be important to compare affordable health insurance rates. This could help a person save money and still earn the coverage they want.

Healthcare law survives appeals decision

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Sun, 13 Nov 2011 18:00:00 -0600

A recent decision from the third court of appeals upheld the Affordable Care Act, the Obama administration's healthcare reform law.

The decision was split, with a two to one vote in favor of the law. This was the third denial of the lawsuit, which was led by a Christian legal group, the news source reported. The suit was initially filed due to the belief that the law was unconstitutional and a religious freedom violation.

"With two prominent conservatives, this panel was thought to be a dream come true for conservative challengers of the act," said Doug Kendall, president of the Constitutional Accountability Center in Washington. "Today that dream became a nightmare, as the panel unanimously rejected the challenges to the Act, disagreeing only about why those challenges failed."

With the law looking as if it will survive unless the Supreme Court overturns it, consumers may want to act now to get their health insurance situations sorted. By looking for affordable health insurance quotes, Americans may be able to find what they need in order to improve their situation.

Does the US already have a death panel when it comes to health care?

nospam@example.com (Todd Page) — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 10:17:33 -0600

Remember 3+ years ago when the election was going on and people accused the government (if they passed ObamaCare) that they would have these "death panels" and Obama said that's not true "No one is going to pull the plug on Grannie".

As we all know, we now have the USPSTF - The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, a committee of "experts" appointed by the Department of Health & Human Services which determine what, when, and which procedures are necessary as part of a wellness exam. This includes all new ObamaCare 100% wellness services. As you may have heard the USPSTF has now said PSA tests for men don't work and they are no longer recommending them, just like they no longer recommend women have mammograms until age 50+. Are they getting ready for 2014?
We all thought many new procedures would be introduced (and they have been) since the new law took effect, and remember insurance plans are now required to pay 100% of all wellness. The problem is.........the government will also have to pay for the same procedure later and I'm sure their actuaries told them the same thing.....you can't afford to pay all of this.....better cut it back or you have big issues coming later with high costs.

The problem with all of this is: IF the government takes over health care or we have the majority of people insured by government over private insurance, which procedures for wellness, or even worse an illness, will they "recommend" in the future? Grannie literally might not have the "plug" pulled on her but you can bet if she is old and the procedure is too costly her care will be "rationed" at best. "Take this pill Grannie you don't get a new heart at 83 years old". If you have one payer in the system (tax payers) you HAVE to ration health care there is NO other way.

It's just like Canada...."health care is free". Well forgot about the "free" part for a minute which we all know isn't true, the real problem is health care that THEY tell you and THEY approve is free but as we all know that might not be the best care available hence why many come to the US each year. Canada is just one big USPSTF.

There has to be somewhat of a policing mechanism with all of this, right now we know each state government was given over a $1 million by the Federal government for one purpose: To police the insurance companies and make sure they are compliant with the new health law.

My question is this:
WHO is going to police the government later on what is, and what is not covered? The government?

To read more on this subject click here: New death panels

The opinions in this article are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent those of JLBG Health.

Top 5 Ways Health Care Reform May Affect You

nospam@example.com (Todd Page) — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 09:31:39 -0500

1) Guaranteed Issue Clause:
Guaranteed Issue, which means the insurance company cannot ask any medical questions to find pre-existing health conditions is a very hot topic these days. On one hand, this concept is great since an individual cannot be turned down if they have a pre-existing condition. On the other hand, this may cause insurance premiums to increase, perhaps even substantially. How? Currently insurance companies ask health questions to determine if there are any pre-existing health conditions. If so, they can assign a premium increase to counter potential risk. Currently healthy people pay less and those with pre-existing conditions may pay more to help offset the financial risk the carrier is taking on. In 2014,everyone will be guaranteed coverage and all premiums will be the same. This means that the carrier needs to build into the rate the financial risk they are taking on by accepting anyone with pre-existing conditions. In addition, healthy individuals may be subsidizing individuals with pre-existing conditions. ABA members can obtain guaranteed issue limited medical coverage now by clicking here: Free Online Quote or by calling 1-800-649-1315

2) Individual Mandate Clause:
The individual mandate clause of the law means all individuals must purchase health insurance or face a fine/penalty. The concept of this goes hand in hand with guaranteed issue because if no one can be turned down, this prevents people from signing up only when they need it and canceling it when they don’t. Some argue, however, that it is unconstitutional to force individuals to buy insurance coverage. It is expected this issue will go to the U.S. Supreme Court sometime in 2012.

3) Health Insurance Exchanges:
Starting in 2014, each state is required to have a health insurance exchange available so individuals can shop for medical insurance from multiple insurance companies. Each insurance company will be required to provide premium subsidies based on income. As an example, families of four that earn under $80,000 per year will receive some subsidy. If that family earns closer to $80,000 per year, the subsidy will be minimal. This can be a good concept for those who currently cannot afford health insurance and will have their premium subsidized. For a quote through the ABA member health insurance exchange please click here: Shop For Health Insurance Rates or call 1-800-649-1315

4) Minimum Essential Coverage (MEC):
In 2014, each individual must buy a health insurance plan that is considered credible coverage and this clause outlines what features must be included in a health insurance plan so you are exempt from fines/penalties. It is believed today that in 2014 the highest deducible medical plan you can purchase for an individual will be $2,000 and for a family may be $4,000. This means that if you currently have a $5,000 or $10,000 deductible medical plan, it may not qualify as credible coverage and you could face a fine/penalty. In addition, you may see significant increases in premium if you are required to switch from a $10,000 deductible medical plan to a $4,000 deductible plan. Your premium will more than likely double!

5) Minimum Loss Ratio (MLR) clause and how it affects your rates:
Starting in 2011, each insurance carrier is mandated by law to pay out 80-85% of premiums paid in claims. If the carriers do not pay out at least these amounts, they will be forced to refund money. In theory this will help reduce and control rates, however, if the insurance companies end up paying out more than the minimum required by law, they may ask for and will most likely receive any rate increase they request.

Want to learn even more about the health care law? Click here for a timeline of events and more specific details:Health Care Law Update or call 1-800-649-1315

About the Author
By Todd Page, Vice President JLBG Health - administrator of ABA/ABI Member Health Plans.

Todd has been in the health insurance industry for over 24 years, beginning his career with Aon Corp. For the past 17 years with JLBG Health he has designed health care plans for over 300 associations and franchise groups including American Bar Insurance (ABI), The American Medical Association (AMA), and The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB).

About ABI
American Bar Insurance Plans Consultants, Inc. was established in 1989 as a wholly-owned subsidiary of the American Bar Endowment. ABI was created to generate an additional source of revenue to support the Endowment's charitable goals.

The American Bar Endowment supports the charitable activities of the American Bar Association. ABI sponsors insurance programs for ABA members that the Endowment is unable to offer, due to its dividend contribution structure.

ABI is paid compensation by the underwriters of the programs it sponsors, and will transfer an appropriate portion of net profits to the Endowment for its charitable work.
About JLBG Health
JLBG Health is the Nation’s largest provider of Association Health Plans. In business for nearly 40 years they administer health plans for 350+ Associations including the American Bar Association, the American Medical Association (AMA) and the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB).
The opinions and views expressed in this article are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent those of the American Bar Association or its affiliates.

Oregon county creates money-saving healthcare option

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 02:00:00 -0500

A recent initiative in Yamhill County, Oregon, introduced a new card that will help residents cut cost on prescription medications.

The county partnered with the National Association of Counties to distribute the Prescription Discount Card, which can cut prices of medicines up to nearly 25 percent. Consumers who live in the county can utilize the program with or without health insurance.

"Recognizing the difficulties many of our residents face when trying to pay for their health care needs, all three County commissioners are happy to be able to provide them with the Prescription Discount Card," said Kathy George, commissioner in Yamhill County. "This card offers residents - both insured and uninsured - significant savings on prescription medications."

While this program may be very useful for residents of the included areas, many Americans are not as fortunate to have such programs. For those who are looking to get lower medical costs, it may be a good plan to explore other health insurance options, as many affordable plans are available that have a significant amount of perks.

Government cuts of mental health costs opposed by new conference

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 02:00:00 -0500

A recent group was created in order to discourage lawmakers from making further cuts to mental health services, which have been significant as of late.

In the past two years, state governments have cut close to $2 billion from budgets related to mental healthcare for both adults and children. The "Mental Health Hope: Lost People, Lost Dollars, Lost Hope" symposium plans to bring awareness to stopping these types of cuts, and encouraging lawmakers to avoid these cuts further down the line.

"The work we have done to increase access and quality of care for those in need will be severely threatened without the resources to keep the programs going," said Mark Covall, president and CEO of the National Association of Psychiatric Health Systems. "We're already struggling to deal with increased demand due to the down economy."

With mental healthcare cuts prevalent, many consumers may notice a jump in their rates, especially if they need this type of coverage. As the current state of the economy is less than ideal, consumers may want to ensure that they have the lowest insurance rates possible, without skipping out on good protection.

New group stresses government to examine health costs

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 02:00:00 -0500

A recently-formed group pleaded with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to lower the cost of essential health benefits in order to make it more affordable for Americans.

The Essential Health Benefits Coalition, which consists of many members of the medical industry, warned HHS that if a project like this was put into place many consumers and employers would not be able to realistically afford it, making general healthcare less attainable for a significant amount of the population.

"HHS has an opportunity to develop an essential health benefits package that is both affordable and flexible to ensure workers can get the health coverage they need," said Brendan Daly, executive director of the Essential Health Benefits Coalition. "We look forward to working with HHS Secretary Sebelius toward that crucial goal."

The coalition stressed that benefits packages need to be affordable and easy to customize, the news source added.

Consumers may want to look for more affordable health insurance plans if they don't feel their current plan is the best they can obtain.

Healthcare law appeal from states goes to Supreme Court

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 02:00:00 -0500

A total of 26 states, as well as the National Federation of Independent Business, recently asked for an accelerated decision from the Supreme Court in order to end healthcare reform in the United States, according to The Associated Press.

The law would require consumers to buy insurance or pay a penalty starting in 2014. But these states and organizations want the courts to make a decision before the next presidential cycle, as fees and other requirements could change sooner than that, the news source reported. Not only would private insurance be extended, but Medicaid would be as well.

"It would be better to have that known about than be speculated as a part of the political argument," John Paul Stevens, retired Supreme Court justice told the news source.

Many businesses and states are opposed to the government setting healthcare cost levels, the news source added.

While the future of the law is unclear, it may be a good idea for consumers to procure a health insurance plan, if they have not already. But when looking online, it is important to compare health insurance quotes to ensure that the best rates are found.

No movement on New York healthcare law

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 02:00:00 -0500

The state of New York has yet to create a healthcare exchange, and this could put it at a big disadvantage if there is no decision on complying with the Affordable Care Act, according to Elmira-based Star-Gazette.

The Act, which was enacted by the Obama administration, forces every state to require health insurance by the start of 2014. While the Empire State could make $100 million from federal grants, this would be jeopardized if the state senate doesn't come up with an agreement, the news source reported. Nearly $40 million has already been allocated to the state, but it cannot get any more money until lawmakers agree on a budget and assistance for consumers looking for affordable insurance rates.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services plans to examine each state's progress in 2013, according to the news source. If New York is not set up by then, the government will intervene.

It may be wise for Americans who are not insured to find a plan now, as it will be mandatory in only a couple of years.

Federal judge says no to insurance mandate

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 19:00:00 -0500

A Pennsylvania-based federal judge ruled against the clause in the healthcare law that would require Americans to buy health insurance on the grounds that it is unconstitutional, according to the Associated Press.

Judge Christopher Conner said that if Americans were forced to purchase a health insurance plan or pay a fine for lacking it by 2014 that would be unconstitutional. He said that it would be an unlawful authoritative act by the federal government due to a clause in the Constitution that clarifies commerce, the news source reported. He further added that this would allow Congress to exercise a sort of policing ability.

"Scores of individuals are uninsured and the costs to all citizens are measurable and significant," Conner said. "The federal government, however, is one of limited enumerated powers, and Congress' efforts to remedy the ailing health care and health insurance markets must fit squarely within the boundaries of those powers."

While the ruling will not force people to get health insurance, those who want it may be interested to look at different rates, as this could help them in obtaining the best deal possible.

Virginia court dismisses health reform suits

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 02:00:00 -0500

A recent decision in a Virginia federal court of appeals turned down two lawsuits, one by the state of Virginia, that claimed the current healthcare changes by the Obama administration were unconstitutional, according to The Associated Press.

The ruling was 3-0 against the ability for a state to sue over the healthcare overhaul, the news source reported. The final decision by the panel did not rule on anything relating to the constitutional questions brought up by the suit.

"[I]f we were to adopt Virginia's standing theory, each state could become a roving constitutional watchdog of sorts; no issue, no matter how generalized or quintessentially political, would fall beyond a state's power to litigate in federal court," Judge Diana Gribbon Motz wrote in her decision.

The law would have had a significant impact on health insurance rates, if it is upheld. The Attorney General of Virginia, Kenneth Cuccinelli, planned to appeal the court's decision, as he felt no resident of Virginia should be ordered to have insurance, the news source added.

California insurance bill withdrawn

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Fri, 02 Sep 2011 02:00:00 -0500

A California health insurance rate bill, which would have given the insurance commissioner the ability to reject premium increases, died in the state Senate, as there was not enough people poised to vote in its favor.

The bill, named AB 52, had hope of being passed after it was supported by many consumer advocates and Dave Jones, the state's insurance commissioner. Jones had already attempted to pass similar legislation multiple times.

"Right now, not enough senators are prepared to vote for any form of health insurance rate regulation," said Mike Feuer, the California Assemblyman who was also the author of the bill. He still has plans to reintroduce the bill at a later date.

The legislation would help consumers get the lowest health insurance quotes, but also would give companies the opportunity to justify their rate increases to regulators.

Feelings for this type of legislation stemmed from proposals from two insurance companies, as many felt the rates were too high. But due to a significant number of Democrats not agreeing with some aspects of the bill, there was little chance it could actually have passed.

Watchdog says enforcement needed to stop health insurance rate hikes

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 01 Sep 2011 02:00:00 -0500

While a new federal law requiring health insurance companies to give public support for any increase of 10 percent or more to consumers health insurance quotes, one consumer agency says just disclosure won't be enough.

The thought behind the new regulations is that insurance companies will be wary of hiking rates too much because of the media and public pressure which could come from the move.

However, the nonprofit organization Consumer Watchdog says officials need to also have the power to actually reject any changes that they feel are excessive.

"Without at least the threat of enforcement, public complaints about unreasonable increases will continue to fall on deaf ears," said Carmen Balber, Washington director for Consumer Watchdog. "It's up to the states to require approval of health insurance rates and hold down rate hikes where federal health reform has failed."

The group says the ability of officials in California to reject excessive rate hikes for auto and property insurance has saved consumers $62 billion during the past 13 years.

Data from the Kaiser Family Foundation finds that less than half of the states in the country currently require state approval for rate increases in both individual and group insurance plans.

New initiative would promote coordination of care

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 02:00:00 -0500

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced plans this week to improve coordination of care for patients being discharged from the hospital after a severe illness or injury.

The initiative, called the Bundled Payments for Care Improvement, is part of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and will align payments for medical services over an episode of care, according to HHS. This could significantly reduce the strain on health insurance that often occurs during a period of illness.

HHS hopes that the new plan will incentivize coordination of care between doctors, hospitals and other facilities while it improves quality of care and curbs rising health insurance costs.

"This Bundled Payment initiative responds to the overwhelming calls from the hospital and physician communities for a flexible approach to patient care improvement," explained Dr. Donald Berwick. "All around the country, many of the leading healthcare institutions have already implemented these kinds of projects and seen positive results."

The payment system may even improve patient care and recovery by prompting doctors to work more closely with physical therapists. The collaborations may make for more comprehensive rehabilitation and improved results, HHS reports.

HHS to disperse grants to get children health insurance

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 02:00:00 -0500

The U.S Department of Health and Human Services announced today that it would be granting $40 million in federal funds to local communities in order to help identify and enroll children eligible for Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program.

The monies will be distributed nationwide and awarded to 39 agencies, school-based organizations, non-profits and community health centers. The grants will last for two years and are aimed at getting children not currently covered under a family health insurance plan the healthcare they need, according to HHS.

Some of the grant money will go to those focusing on engaging schools and school districts in enrolling students in the health insurance programs. Considerable attention will also be given to encouraging families to renew health insurance policies they have already taken out, HHS explains.

"Keeping Americans healthy from a young age is the right thing to do, and it saves money by avoiding preventable diseases and conditions as they get older," explained HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius. "The activities we are funding will help eligible children get covered, stay healthy and prepare them to succeed in school."

Many state agencies have already made headway when it comes to enrolling eligible children inthese important healthcare programs, and many hope these grants will forward those efforts.

Gang of Six drafts government spending plan, cuts health spending

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 02:00:00 -0500

In an effort to shore up the federal budget before the nation falls more into the red, the bi-partisan "Gang of Six" has drafted a proposal to cut spending and reduce the nation's deficit by $3.7 trillion over ten years, according to Forbes.

The plan outlines several suggestions on how to cut spending, and curbing health insurance costs is prime among them. Under the directives, Medicare and Medicaid would be overhauled in an effort to reduce wasteful healthcare spending, according to Kaiser Health News.

The current Medicare Sustainable Growth Rate formula would also be either scrapped or overhauled. Costs would be balanced with health savings, and health insurance coverage for the poor and elderly would benefit from additional funds as a result, according to the bipartisan plan.

Medicare doctors would also likely face a pay change, something that has been floated around congress for a decade, Forbes reports. While physicians may not be pleased with the cuts, they may be essential to curbing out of control healthcare spending and shoring up the national debt. Long-term care health insurance may also find itself on the chopping block if the plan is enforced, according to Kaiser Health News.

HHS rolls out recommendations for health insurance exchanges

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 14 Jul 2011 02:00:00 -0500

The United States Department of Health and Human Services announced this week that it was offering a basic framework to assist states in constructing health insurance exchanges, which need to be in place nationwide by 2014.

HHS proposed new rules that are aimed at helping states navigate the murky territory of setting up exchanges, which lawmakers hope will relieve some of the cost burden of obtaining health insurance plans for individuals and small business owners.

At present, HHS is recommending that states set up a Small Business Health Options Program to help small business owners who wish to provide healthcare coverage for their staff. HHS also suggests certifying health insurance companies before allowing them to take part in exchanges.

While naysayers complain that insurance exchanges go against competitive market practices and may harm consumers in the long run, supporters assert that the exchanges will be beneficial for all involved.

"Exchanges offer Americans competition, choice, and clout," HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius explained. "Insurance companies will compete for business on a transparent, level playing field, driving down costs; and Exchanges will give individuals and small businesses the same purchasing power as big businesses and a choice of plans to fit their needs."

Federal cuts could mean trouble for teaching hospitals

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 02:00:00 -0500

As health insurance costs rise and federal funds dry up, many teaching hospitals may be facing tough cuts to their budgets in the coming months.

Many New York state teaching hospitals are bracing for possible cuts that could take $1 billion in funding away annually, according to The New York Times. Coming directly from Washington, D.C., the cuts would limit Medicare grants that are currently used to train physicians and provide specialty centers such as trauma units and cutting-edge equipment.

Many in the healthcare industry are concerned that the budget shortfalls affecting teaching hospitals nationwide will cause irreparable damage to the healthcare industry. According to the Association of American Medical Colleges, the cuts could impact more than just quality of care and the availability of well-trained doctors.

Jobs, research advances and business developments are all standing in harm's way. These factors could cause problems on several, the source reports. As a result, the issue needs to be dealt with on a broader level, with members of every community, not just the healthcare industry, involving themselves in the discussion.

"Cuts in Medicare support for teaching hospitals would have serious economic consequences at the local, state, and national levels," Paul Umbach of the AAMC explained.

Final Reminder to Amend Your Health FSA and HRA Before June 30th

nospam@example.com (Todd Page) — Mon, 27 Jun 2011 09:35:52 -0500

If you have not already done so, make sure that your company’s or clients' health flexible spending accounts (FSAs) and health reimbursement accounts (HRAs) have been amended (if needed) to comply with the requirement in the health reform law that over-the-counter medicines and drugs (except insulin) require a prescription for tax-free reimbursement. This prescription requirement must be communicated to employees.

The IRS gave plan sponsors until June 30, 2011 to amend their plans to comply with the new requirements, but the amendment must be effective retroactively for expenses incurred after December 31, 2010 and the plan is administered in compliance with the requirement beginning January 1, 2011.

If a debit card program is offered, the amendment must be effective retroactively for expenses incurred after January 15, 2011. Employee communications should also describe the impact on debit card transactions.

Michigan employers say they will not drop benefits, but will cut costs

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 21 Jun 2011 02:00:00 -0500

While most companies are looking to cut costs when it comes to health insurance, fewer than may have been expected report that they will drop employee benefits when universal healthcare takes effect in 2014, according to McGraw Wentworth.

In its annual survey of mid-sized Michigan companies, McGraw Wentworth found that while many of these organizations are contemplating the impact healthcare reform may have on their business, they do not plan to scrap health insurance plans altogether.

"Employers are looking closely at the 'play or pay' aspects of health reform and the status of their health plans," said McGraw Wentworth's account director Julie Trustkowski. "Employers need to make strategic decisions before 2014 to accommodate health care reform mandates."

But while employers report that they will not be cutting care, they did indicate that they were seeking ways to lower healthcare costs and control inflation.

Organizations that were successful at keeping expenses down tended to include employees in the decision making process. Furthermore, many financially savvy businesses opted for consumer driven health plans (CDHP) in lieu of HMOs and PPOs.

CDHPs will often include an upfront deductible for patient care and a lower monthly premium for both the individual and the employer.

Illinois scrambles to resolves health insurance issues

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 16 Jun 2011 02:00:00 -0500

State employees in Illinois were spared health insurance confusion last week after a state legislative panel approved an emergency plan that allows the Department of Healthcare and Family Services (DHFS) to provide more options to its current staff and retirees, according to Bloomberg Businessweek.

The move comes in response to concern over limited options for employee health insurance.

DHFS director Julie Hamos explained to The News-Gazette that a lack of healthcare alternatives and concerns about gaps in coverage are they driving factors behind the legislation.

"What I think was most distressing to public employees in this entire last two months' period is to think that they had very few options, and it was going to be either a PPO or Blue Cross, which was only in 38 counties," she said.

Individuals and families looking to continue coverage with the state will need to get their plans in order quickly to avoid disruptions, as current policies are set to expire at the end of June, according to Bloomberg Businessweek.

While many state workers may be relived to have more choices, these emergency contracts - which only last for 90 days - may be too fleeting for some looking to get the issue finalized.

New York may be following Vermont's lead on healthcare

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 07 Jun 2011 02:00:00 -0500

Just weeks after Vermont passed legislation to create universal healthcare for its residents, New York is introducing a bill that would create a single payer health insurance system in the state, according to WXXA-TV in New York.

Vermont's universal healthcare system will be modeled after Canada's and will be overseen by a five-member board that will be appointed by October of this year, according to the Associated Press. Furthermore, the Vermont bill will create a health insurance exchange in the state that will provide individuals and small businesses with access to a health insurance marketplace.

Exchanges, which could create more competitive pricing, and single payer insurance could be a relief to many New York residents who have seen their health insurance costs rise in the recent past. The New York Daily News recently reported that both individual and family health insurance rates rose by about 8 percent in 2010.

A spokeswoman from the Health Plan Association of New York discussed possible reasons for the premium hikes with the news source.

"Raters continue to go up because this population continues to be a very expensive population to provide health care services to," she said.

New York City flash mob raises awareness for long-term care planning

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 31 May 2011 02:00:00 -0500

Dancers who were disguised as blue-haired senior citizens invaded Times Square in New York City this week in an effort to call attention to the need to plan for long-term care for aging Americans, according to 3in4 Need More.

Named for the statistic that states that 70 percent of people over the age of 65 require more than standard healthcare services, the nonprofit organization works to educate the general public on the realities of aging while simultaneously promoting legislative bids to make medical services more affordable for the elderly, according to the its website.

Because Medicare and private health insurance coverage for acute and extended care is limited, 3in4 Need More stresses the importance of preparedness.

"These long-term care needs can sneak up on us as quickly as a flash mob - which is why it’s so important for Americans to plan ahead," said Dr. Marion Sommers, an expert on elder care who is teaming with the NPO in its campaign to educate seniors and their familial caregivers on what maintaining health can entail for retirees.

Dr. Sommers will be spending the summer crisscrossing the country to spread the word about at-home and on-site care healthcare costs.

Rhode Island secures funds for health insurance exchange

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 26 May 2011 02:00:00 -0500

According to The Boston Globe, Rhode Island has secured $5.2 million in federal funds to support its plan to create a health insurance exchange for its residents.

The grant is part of President Obama's healthcare reform act, and the Department of Health and Human Services has already given Rhode Island $1 million to begin creating its online insurance market for citizens to browse, according to the news source.

Health insurance exchanges are meant to give consumers greater access to insurance policies, and a wider variety of choices and health insurance quotes. Furthermore, exchanges will be designed to make policy information easy to understand, meaning there will be no hidden costs or confusion about which benefits are covered, according to The Henry J Kaiser Family Foundation.

Rhode Island Governor Lincoln Chafee expressed his enthusiasm about receiving the grant in a statement.

"This is great news for Rhode Island," he said. "Our goal is to make our state a national leader in implementing federal healthcare reform in a way that is advantageous for Rhode Islanders – and this significant grant will help us do that.

Legislation aims to protect student-athletes from injury

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 24 May 2011 02:00:00 -0500

While it is inevitable that children will get bumps and bruises, some parents may worry that their kids will be faced with severe, long-lasting injuries as a result of their involvement in organized sports. This can cause some families to struggle with knowing when and if they should allow children to return to sports after an injury.

Board-certified orthopedic surgeon Henry Fuentes told The Chicago Sun-Times that, when it comes to injured child-athletes, he doesn't hesitate to proceed with caution.

"For concussions, I send patients to the ER and have them see a neurologist to make sure it’s safe to go back," Feuntes told the news source. "A lot of kids return to sports too soon after a concussion."

Illinois State Senator Kirk Dillard is trying to prevent adolescents from prematurely reentering the sports arena after a head injury with House Bill 200.

The Senator explained that "House Bill 200 takes the decision out of the hands of the coaches, players and parents, and requires a medical professional to give the athlete the green light to get back in the game."

Such a requirement may seem like a hassle in the moment, but it could potentially stave off further or permanent injury and future health insurance woes.

Stayhealthy names Tommy G. Thompson chair of its board of directors

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 19 May 2011 02:00:00 -0500

Former Secretary of Health and Human Services and Wisconsin Governer Tommy G. Thompson was named chairman of the board at Stayhealthy, according to company officials.

The California based-health solutions company, which was founded in 1995, offers monitoring devices to the general public in order to promote wellness and reduce health insurance costs. Cleared by the Food and Drug Administration in 2005, the company's Total Body Composition Management System measures and traces body composition, which includes body fat percentage and hydration, according to the company's website.

These measurements help Stayhealthy to design an individualized plan of action in an attempt to help participating individuals improve their personal health.

Thompson, who has a long history of involvement in various areas of the medical industry, has been a vocal advocate of focusing on prevention and making improvements to the overall well-being of individuals as a means to curbing healthcare costs and maximizing health.

"I hope to draw on my experience in numerous areas of the healthcare industry to help Stayhealthy become a global leader in measuring and improving personal health – which I believe is critical in the fight against chronic disease and obesity," said Thompson.

Universal health insurance on the horizon for Vermont

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 16 May 2011 02:00:00 -0500

Making good on promises made during his inaugural address in January, Vermont Governor Peter Shumlin is preparing to sign a bill that would provide healthcare to all residents of the state, according to The Associated Press.

"Let Vermont be the first state in the nation to treat healthcare as a right and not a privilege," said Governor Shumlin.

The legislation hitting the governor's desk this month aims to do just that. Proposed by Burlington-based Representative Mark Larson, the bill would create a state-run, single-payer healthcare system akin to the Canadian system that is already in place, according to the news source.

The bill states that it would establish a board to manage the plan and impose budget constraints. The board would also explore avenues of reform in order to streamline healthcare costs and practices. Vermont's medical malpractice laws and process for reviewing health insurance quotes would both be on the table.

The option for a state-run plan would relieve the burden that obtaining health insurance places on individuals and small businesses. Furthermore, the legislation would pave the way for the universal coverage the White House is striving for.

Colorado health insurance bill survives

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 09 May 2011 02:00:00 -0500

Colorado's House of Representatives rescued a bi-partisan bill this week that would create the option for a health insurance marketplace for the state's small businesses, according to Bloomberg Business Week.

Popular with small-business owners, the bill was largely disparaged by Tea Party activists, who tried to dissuade lawmakers from allowing it to pass on to the next round of voting.

Republican Representative Don Beezley voiced his concerns on the matter, stating "I'm just not comfortable with the direction it goes," according to the news source.

The fact that Colorado House Republican Leader Amy Stephens co-sponsored the bill did little to halt conservative criticism, and Democrats are being credited with saving it.

"I'm proud that Democrats led the way today in helping to bring down costs for Colorado's small businesses," House Minority Leader Sal Pace told the Denver Post.

Allowing small businesses to participate in such an exchange would alleviate the stress of sifting through pricey health insurance quotes as a single, small entity. This is accomplished by creating a marketplace that offers cost-effective, high-quality health insurance for businesses that can not afford to purchase plans on their own.

The fight for healthcare continues in court

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 09 May 2011 02:00:00 -0500

A total of 26 states asked an appeals court on Wednesday to uphold a ruling by a U.S. District Court Judge in Florida that calls the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) unconstitutional, according to Bloomberg Businessweek.

Pensacola Judge C. Roger Vinson ruled that the act violated constitutional rights by requiring citizens to obtain health insurance. The Obama administration asked that the decision be overturned in January, and lawsuits were filed almost immediately. The Florida suit was filed on March 23 - the same day the legislation in question was signed - and encompasses 13 states, according to the news source.

The American Center for Law and Justice (ALCJ), the organization handling the Florida-based suit, presented its Amicus brief to the court on Thursday. The ALCJ maintains that requiring Americans to buy health insurance goes beyond the reach of the government.

The brief states that, "because the individual mandate requires citizens to purchase health insurance or be penalized, the PPACA exceeds Congress's Constitutional Authority."

The ALCJ hopes to get the entire law thrown out, as its members feel that the mandate in question is not separate and identifiable from the law as a whole.

Single-payer health insurance system making strides in Vermont

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 27 Apr 2011 02:00:00 -0500

A measure that supporters say would guarantee healthcare for every resident of Vermont and move the state toward a single-payer health insurance system recently passed the state's Senate, according to a report from the Burlington Free Press.

Critics - including state Senator Joe Benning, who voted against it - have slammed the bill as irresponsible.

"It is irresponsible to promise or imply that all citizens will be covered for all their healthcare needs in a comprehensive plan when we cannot afford to do that," Benning told the newspaper.

However, supporters countered that opposition to the measure ignores the fact that it does not commit the state to concrete plans, and argue that there is plenty of room for compromise.

Single-payer healthcare is the system in place in countries like the UK and Canada. It makes the government the sole source of health insurance money for the nation's care providers, and is already in limited use in the U.S. in the form of Medicare. Proponents argue that it provides more universal and efficient care than the current general system in America.

Vermont Senate gives healthcare bill initial approval

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 26 Apr 2011 02:00:00 -0500

A key part of Governor Peter Shumlin's agenda - a universal, single-payer healthcare system - passed through the Vermont Senate this week, paving the path for a new statewide health insurance program.

"This is a historic day," Galbraith declared just before he joined 20 other senators to give preliminary approval to the health reform bill, the Burlington Free Press reported.

The final vote was split by party, with one Republican - Senator Kevin Mullin - voting with the Democrats on the bill, which Mullin helped write as a member of the Senate Health and Welfare Committee. Conversely, one Democrat - Senator Robert Starr - joined the seven Republicans who voted against the measure.

According to Forbes, the bill calls for setting up a health care marketplace, called an exchange, in keeping with federal health care legislation for both individual and family health insurance. It also sets up a board that would review and approve designs for a publicly financed program available to all residents

Just as it was for the national healthcare debate, the discourse in Vermont was very divisive, although both sides agreed on the fact that the current system is broken.

"Change is needed because the present system cannot be financially sustained," Republican Senator Joe Benning noted. "The issue that divides us is how that change should be made."

Supreme Court decision means healthcare challenge will have to go through lower courts

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 25 Apr 2011 02:00:00 -0500

A petition by Virginia Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli to skip large sections of the legal process in his lawsuit against the federal government's healthcare reforms was denied by the Supreme Court on Monday.

Cuccinelli had asked the court in February to hear the case before it had been through the whole of the lower court system, "[g]iven the importance of the issues at stake to the [s]tates and to the economy as a whole," according to the Hill.

The legal challenge to the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act centers on the argument that the federal government has no right to impose new spending on states with the requirement that they set up health insurance exchanges, legal experts say.

According to the Los Angeles Times, the Obama administration's appeal of an earlier federal court decision ruling PPACA unconstitutional is set to be heard by the U.S. 4th Circuit Court of Appeals on May 10.

Experts say that, despite the Supreme Court decision not to hear the case early, it will likely be back on the docket by the 2012 elections.

GOP healthcare plan will set America back, pundits say

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Fri, 22 Apr 2011 02:00:00 -0500

The healthcare proposal put forward by Republican Representative Paul Ryan is a dangerous plan that will do serious damage to the ability of Americans to receive quality care, according to Jonathan Cohn of the San Antonio Express-News.

Ryan's plan would roll back several of the coverage expansions passed as part of the omnibus health insurance reform bill in 2010, Cohn writes, and impose cuts on Medicare that will effectively turn it into a voucher program. This, coupled with a proposed increase in the scheme's minimum age of availability will have the effect of decreasing access to needed care, he adds.

In addition, that and other supposed cost-cutting measures in the GOP healthcare plan will not actually save the country money in the future, according to Cohn. By forcing some Americans to forgo preventive care and other expenses that can seem non-essential in the short term, Ryan's plan will impose a heavy burden on the system as more conditions are allowed to blossom into their acute stages farther down the line.

Continued legislative battles over the budget mean that it's difficult to determine what health insurance will look like in this country in the coming years, experts say.

Bill to roll back healthcare reform in Idaho vetoed by Republican governor

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 21 Apr 2011 02:00:00 -0500

The first of several attempted legislative repeals of President Barack Obama's healthcare reform measure went to Idaho Governor Butch Otter this week - but was promptly sent back with a veto, according to UPI.

The bill would have barred the state from accepting any federal funds for the implementation of the healthcare reform measure and prohibited it from setting up its own healthcare exchange as outlined in the new law. However, Governor Otter - a Republican - told the news agency that it was important to ensure Idaho's ability to create its own system and not bring in federal regulators.

"If we default to the federal government to run the exchange, it can impose regulations and requirements that discourage or make it impossible for insurers to offer affordable health coverage to individuals and small employers in Idaho," he said in an interview.

The exchanges will allow for comparison shopping between government options and privately administered health insurance policies, providing greater consumer choice and spurring competition in order to help prices drop.

Chicago school bans food from home

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 14 Apr 2011 02:00:00 -0500

In an effort to promote healthy eating, one Chicago public school has banned students from packing their own lunches from home, a policy that is receiving a mixed response from students, parents and state educators, according to the Chicago Tribune.

The Little Village Academy, an elementary school in Chicago's West Side, requires students to eat the lunches served in the cafeteria unless a student has a food allergy or another medical condition. Principal Elsa Carmona told the newspaper she enacted the policy six years ago after noticing that many kids would bring in sodas and potato chips for lunch instead of an actual meal.

"Nutrition wise, it is better for the children to eat at the school," Carmona told the paper. "It's about the nutrition and the excellent quality food that they are able to serve [in the lunchroom]."

Despite the intention, the paper said many students throw out large portions of their school lunches, claiming that they taste bad. Plus, since lunches costs about $2.25 for those who don't qualify for free or reduced meals, many parents say they are being forced to spend more money than they would if they packed lunches at home.

Childhood obesity has become a major focal point for many state and federal lawmakers. Many public school districts have stopped selling sodas and other high-sugar beverages to combat the problem, while First Lady Michelle Obama has initiated her Let's Move! campaign, which encourages children to make healthier food choices.

Missouri Democrat files suit against healthcare law

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 13 Apr 2011 02:00:00 -0500

Missouri's Democratic attorney general has broken with his party to urge a federal judge to invalidate the central provision of the Affordable Care Act, according to the New York Times.

Attorney General Chris Koster filed a friend of the court brief in the United States Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit in Atlanta, which the newspaper said is already reviewing another challenge to the healthcare reform law. In a court brief, Koster argued that Congress has overstepped its authority by requiring that most Americans purchase health insurance coverage under the Commerce Clause, reported the Times.

Koster is asking for that mandate to be removed from the legislation. The paper said Koster acted following months of pressure from state Republicans. Koster himself was a Republican state legislator until he switched to the Democratic Party in 2007.

Published reports say that three lower courts have already upheld the law, although two federal judges - one from Florida, another from Virginia - shot down the legislation, ruling that it is unconstitutional.

Bay State governor pushes for healthcare changes

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 02:00:00 -0500

Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick is urging state lawmakers to pass legislation that would change the state's payment systems for doctors and hospitals, saying that it would control soaring healthcare costs, reported the Boston Globe.

The newspaper said Patrick's proposal would give him the authority to analyze health insurance companies' contracts with and fees paid to hospitals and physicians. The Governor would have the power to determine whether those fees are appropriate before approving insurers' requests for premium increases. In addition, the bill would shift 1.7 million Massachusetts residents with state-subsidized health coverage to a new payment system where hospitals and doctors would receive a set budget for each patient's care.

Supporters claim the move would reduce health spending and replace the fee-for-service system that some say encourages unnecessary and disorganized care, reported the paper.

However, the source said many legislators say they need time to review the 52-page bill and work through any questions they may have about the plan.

Healthcare is a hot-button issue among both state and federal legislators as the 2012 presidential election approaches. House Republican Paul Ryan recently introduced a budget proposal that would privatize Medicare and Medicaid services, while many lawmakers are still talking about repealing the Affordable Care Act.

Congress repeals small part of healthcare law

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 07 Apr 2011 02:00:00 -0500

Congress has repealed one small section of the healthcare reform law, after the Senate overwhelmingly voted to eliminate a tax reporting requirement they say was burdensome and unpopular with businesses.

The requirement would have forced businesses to file tax forms for every vendor that sold them more than $600 in goods each year. While the filing is unrelated to healthcare, it was originally projected to raise almost $25 billion over the next decade by ensuring vendors paid their taxes. That money would have been used to pay for part of the new health law.

To make up for the loss, the repeal changes another part of the healthcare law to require families with incomes beyond a certain level to reimburse tax credits designed to help them pay for health insurance.

While the repeal had considerable bipartisan support, some Republican lawmakers hope it is the first of many bills that will result in the entire healthcare law being thrown out. White House Budget Chairman Paul Ryan, a Republican House member from Wisconsin, introduced a plan this week that would privatize Medicare and turn Medicaid into a block grant program that would be distributed to the states.

New York City council proposes fast food toy ban

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 07 Apr 2011 02:00:00 -0500

New York City council members introduced a measure this week that would ban fast-food restaurants from including toys in their kids meals, in an effort to reduce the allure of unhealthy foods.

City Council Deputy Majority Leader Leroy Comrie said prohibiting toy giveaways would make fast-food meals less appealing for children and encourage chain restaurants to add healthier meal options to their menus.

"While I recognize that ensuring children have access to, and eat more, nutritious meals is ultimately the responsibility of their caretakers, the City Council can empower parents by making it harder for the fast food industry to target children with predatory marketing techniques," Comrie said in a statement.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 17 percent of U.S. children between the ages of 2 and 19 are obese, a condition that could lead to chronic illnesses like diabetes or heart disease that can raise health insurance costs.

So far, the National Restaurant Association and McDonald's Corp have come out against the proposal.

Last year, San Francisco lawmakers passed similar legislation, which prevents fast food restaurants from giving out toys with kids meals that don't meet minimum nutritional standards. The new law will take effect in December.

Judge says NH man lacks standing to sue over healthcare reform

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 04 Apr 2011 02:00:00 -0500

A federal court has dismissed a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of the healthcare reform law, saying the New Hampshire man who initiated the case lacked standing to sue since he receives health insurance coverage from Medicare, reported the Associated Press.

The 80-year-old Harold Peterson sued President Barack Obama and the U.S. Congress last year, primarily objecting to the law's requirement that nearly all Americans have health insurance. Although the judge agreed the law may raise "interesting constitutional issues," he said Peterson had no standing to challenge it since he could not plausibly explain how the mandate would harm him, according to the news source.

The source said Peterson disagreed with the ruling, arguing that the law could hurt him by potentially reducing Medicare benefits.

"The fact that you have Medicare doesn't make a difference because Medicare is being impacted as well," Peterson said.
Opponents of the healthcare reform argue that the section that requires Americans to buy life insurance is unconstitutional because Congress does not have the authority mandate coverage. However, the Huffington Post reports some experts say that is untrue since the constitution allows Congress to, "make all laws that should be necessary and proper."

Erin Brockovich addresses Senate regarding disease cluster law

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 31 Mar 2011 02:00:00 -0500

Consumer health advocate Erin Brockovich testified in front of the U.S. senate Environmental and Public Works Committee with a doctor and a cancer survivor to urge lawmakers to pass a law to document disease clusters across the country.

A disease cluster signifies an unusual number of health events , such as cancer, that are grouped around a certain time or location. The issue is close to Brockovich's heart, as she came to prominence investigating the prevalence of cancer cases around Hinkley, California that was the result of local groundwater contamination. In 2000, Brockovich's story was produced into the critically acclaimed film "Erin Brockovich".

According to Reuters, Brockovich told the senate panel that she receives phone calls from thousands of Americans every month who say there are unexplained diseases in their neighborhoods. Senator Barbara Boxer, the chair of the committee, is also the co-sponsor of a bill meant to increase coordination, transparency and accountability when federal agencies investigate potential disease clusters.

A study by the Natural Resources Defense Council and the National Disease Clusters Alliance found that there have been 42 disease clusters reported in 13 U.S. states, resulting in numerous forms of cancer, birth defects and other chronic illnesses that may result in higher health insurance rates.

Vermont House passes single-payer healthcare system

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 29 Mar 2011 02:00:00 -0500

The Vermont House of Representatives has approved a bill that would establish a single-payer healthcare system if passed by the senate.

The system would create a program called Green Mountain Care where all state residents would be eligible for benefits. If passed, the program would begin in 2014.

Those who support the legislation say it will offer coverage to 47,000 Vermonters who currently do not have health insurance. The bill also designates $1.2 million toward the creation of the Green Mountain Care Board, a five-member state board that will design a benefits package and create cost-saving measures to keep the program affordable.

House Speaker Shap Smith told state representatives that the bill would reduce the cost of Vermont's healthcare expenses, according to the Brattleboro Reformer, saying it is now $2 billion more than it was ten years ago.

"I think that we all know, and there was universal agreement on the House floor, that the current system will bankrupt us," he said.

The Physicians for a National Health Program reports that a single-payer system can ultimately reduce healthcare costs. While it may initially seem more expensive to offer comprehensive coverage for more people, the organization said it may require less resources by allowing people to treat illnesses before they progress.

Democrats release new ads that attack GOP

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 23 Mar 2011 02:00:00 -0500

Congressional Democrats have released a new ad campaign that attacks 10 Republican members of the U.S. House of Representatives who are in favor of cutting Social Security and Medicare spending in an effort to reduce the federal budget deficit, reported the Wall Street Journal.

The campaign aims to oust vulnerable House Republicans from their positions in 2012, according to the newspaper, which specifically targets members such as Representatives Paul Gosar, Allen West and Sean Duffy. The advertisements also mention Representative Paul Ryan, the chairman of the House Budget Committee who the source said plans on cutting Social Security and Medicare funding in the GOP's 2012 budget proposal that will be released in April.

One ad, targeting Gosar, shows a pair of scissors cutting a Social Security card, followed by an accusation that House Republicans want to cut retirement benefits but protect big oil. Others feature samples of automated calls that accuse Republicans of similar plans.

Some states have already proposed major cuts to Medicare and Medicaid programs that would leave thousands of residents without health insurance. In Arizona, Governor Jan Brewer recently announced a $500 million proposal that would cut 120,000 people from the state's Medicaid program.

Some NYC residential buildings consider smoking ban

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Fri, 18 Mar 2011 02:00:00 -0500

While New York City has already banned smoking in restaurants, public parks and beaches, some residential buildings may take it one step further to prevent people from lighting up in their homes.

At least six Manhattan co-ops are expected to bring up the issue in shareholders meetings this spring and then vote on an all-out ban. The Wall Street Journal reports that another dozen or so co-ops and condominiums are also considering the move.

The ban will most likely be met with a fight, reported the newspaper, which said most co-ops require at least two-thirds of all shares to vote in favor of a measure for it to pass. While the paper said the city's health department reports only about 16 percent of New Yorkers classify themselves as smokers, many smokers and nonsmokers alike fear the ban would infringe on their privacy rights.

The ban could improve the physical well-being of many New Yorkers, and as a result, lower health insurance premiums. According to the New York Times, a 2009 study by the city health department found that more than half of all nonsmokers in the city had elevated levels of a nicotine byproduct in their blood, probably due to the high density of people living in the area.

Maryland health reform law would prioritize care in state budget

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 14 Mar 2011 02:00:00 -0500

A supporter of Maryland's proposed single-pay healthcare system is advocating the legislation saying it would prioritize medical care for residents even if the state budget was tight, reported the Insurance and Financial Advisor.

During a recent Maryland Senate Finance Committee, Dr. Margaret Flowers, a pediatrician representing the Physicians for a National Health program, said the proposed universal care system would provide a buffer of support to constituents during tough economic times. According to the news source, Flowers added that under the current healthcare system, insurers raise premiums to overcome lost revenue, but continue to provide unequal and often insufficient care.

Senator Paul Pinsky, one of the bill's sponsors, said its passage would institute one efficient healthcare system in the state, instead of "15 companies, 15 forms." The bill would establish a government entity to oversee the program, according to the source.

The bill, called the Maryland Health Security Act of 2011, is sponsored by 11 senators. However, the source said it is not expected to be passed by the state Congress this year.

While the Obama administration's healthcare reform law has faced a controversial reception, some states have implemented their own single-pay programs successfully. The passage of the Massachusetts healthcare reform law in 2006 has led the state to have the highest percentage of insured residents in the nation.

NC lawmakers disagree on health benefit exchanges

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Fri, 11 Mar 2011 02:00:00 -0600

North Carolina's insurance commissioner is attempting to establish a leadership panel to manage health benefit exchanges as mandated in the Affordable Care Act, reported the Associated Press.

A health benefit exchange is designed to offer affordable health insurance policies to individuals and small businesses. The news agency said states must have their exchanges in place by January 1, 2014 or the federal government will create them.

While speaking to a North Carolina House committee, Insurance Commissioner Wayne Goodwin said his ideal leadership panel will discourage conflicts of interest on commission decisions and promote transparency. However, leading state Democrats and Republicans are introducing competing bills regarding the move. Specifically, a Republican measure would call for an insurance industry representative in the 12-member commission, reported the source, a move that opponents say will be detrimental for the state's poor and uninsured.

Furthermore, opponents also argue the practice would encourage a monopoly by the state's largest insurer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, which the source said would most likely be the company selected for the panel.

Unlike most of the Affordable Care Act, the source said health benefit exchanges has received a significant amount of bipartisan support. Two U.S. District judges have ruled that the healthcare reform plan is unconstitutional, leading many to suspect the legislation will appear before the U.S. Supreme Court.

Report: More than 1,000 healthcare waivers issued by HHS

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 08 Mar 2011 02:00:00 -0600

Recently, the Department of Health and Human Services issued 126 waivers for its healthcare reform, bringing the total past 1,000, according to the Hill.

These one-year waivers provide temporary relief for those organizations that cannot meet the new annual coverage limits for 2011, and offer limited coverage for as low as $2,000. The 1,040 currently issued waivers cover roughly 2.6 million people and represent less than 2 percent of those privately insured.

"We don't want to take away people's health insurance before they have some realistic other choices,” HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius previously told the Hill.

According to the Hill, most waiver requests have been approved; however, of the dozens being denied, many failed to show compliance with the minimum annual limits requirements that would increase premiums or decrease access to benefits, a HHS spokesperson relayed.

The number of such waivers has been decreasing, going from more than 500 in December 2009 to 200 in January and 126 in February.

Despite this decreasing trend, many Republicans have shown their displeasure with the process, claiming the new reform law is problematic. For this reason as well, many have argued against the Massachusetts healthcare program, which has been likened to "Obama Care."

Judge says states must uphold healthcare law, for now

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Fri, 04 Mar 2011 02:00:00 -0600

A federal judge in Pensacola, Florida, who called President Barack Obama's healthcare overhaul bill unconstitutional has ruled that states must continue to enforce the law as the case goes through the courts.

U.S. District Judge Roger Vinson clarified his ruling after the administration became concerned that Florida, in addition to 25 other states, would not adhere to the legislation after Vinson's declaration.

In a statement, Vinson wrote that, "it would be extremely disruptive and cause significant uncertainty" to stop the implementation before the case is settled.

Vinson called the Affordable Care Act unconstitutional in January, claiming the government had overstepped its authority to regulate interstate commerce by requiring almost all Americans to have a health insurance policy. One Virginia judge has also ruled against the law, but two others have upheld it, leading many to believe the case will be presented to the U.S. Supreme Court.

The White House argues that the Affordable Care Act will benefit the nation by reducing healthcare disparities for low-income populations and providing tax credits to encourage small businesses to offer employee benefits, among other initiatives.

Georgia fighting health insurance mandate

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 03 Mar 2011 02:00:00 -0600

Part of President Barack Obama's new healthcare reform requires Americans to obtain health coverage by 2014, a mandate many state officials and residents have protested. Georgia leaders recently stated they will continue to fight this law in federal court, despite President Obama offering more flexibility.

President Obama recently expressed his support for states to opt out of the law's requirements after 2014 instead of 2017 as it currently states. However, the states that do so would then need to insure their residents without costing the federal government more than its current law envisions.

Despite these facts, Georgia officials remain firm in their battle to have the law defeated in court, which might go as high as the U.S Supreme Court.

According to Georgia governor Nathan Deal's press secretary, he "is committed to fighting the unconstitutional mandate that we as a state cannot afford," and "he will fight it all the way to the Supreme Court and, along with many other governors, has already asked the president to expedite the litigation."

While Georgia officials continue to fight President Obama's healthcare plan, many other nationwide reps have criticized former Massachusetts governor and 2012 Republican party hopeful Mitt Romney's plan, which requires all residents to have some form of healthcare insurance.

Holocaust survivors push for life insurance bill

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 03 Mar 2011 02:00:00 -0600

U.S Senator Bill Nelson has filed legislation that would give hundreds of Holocaust survivors the right to sue European companies for unpaid life insurance claims, reported the Miami Herald, after a group of survivors were set to protest a Miami Beach fundraiser the senator had scheduled with President Barack Obama.

Members of the Miami-based Holocaust Survivors' Foundation-USA claimed Nelson has promised three years ago that he would file the legislation, which could allow them to receive millions of dollars in unpaid claims, reported the newspaper. After years without action, the group accused Nelson of going back on his word and siding against Holocaust victims, prompting a protest of his fundraiser at luxury hotel the Fontainebleau.

The survivors also said they had originally received support from Obama and Vice President Joe Biden during the 2008 presidential campaign, according to the paper. However, the foundation told the paper the White House has not responded to a recent letter asking the president to support Nelson's legislation.

"We look forward to working with him as he brings other senators on board, and hope he will tell President Obama personally how important it is to Holocaust Survivors," the foundation said in a statement.

The New York Times recently reported that life insurance polices often go unclaimed, with New York state alone receiving more than $400 million in unclaimed property since 2000.

Universal health insurance proposal gets the go ahead from Colorado Senate

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 02 Mar 2011 02:00:00 -0600

On Monday, a Senate committee approved a new bill that will provide Colorado with a universal healthcare system.

The bill, referred to as Senate Bill 168, was proposed by Senator Irene Aguilar and will aim to eliminate private insurance in the state’s system. The bill would effectively establish a legislative body, the Colorado Health Care Authority, that would design a healthcare cooperative and recommend a healthcare system for this cooperative to run. Once this system is agreed upon, the state’s voters will then be able to approve or deny the motion by 2013.

According to Aguilar, more than 250,000 Colorado residents could be without affordable health insurance by 2019. With this new cooperative, Aguilar aims to cut costs and offer incentives to those healthcare providers who keep these costs low.

Arguments against the bill focus on the potential loss of jobs in the private insurance sector. According to Mark Reese, the associate director at the Colorado Association of Health Plans, roughly 20,000 jobs could be cut if SB168 passes.

Regardless, Aguilar will continue forward with her bill, hoping to reduce the number of Colorado residents, as well as the national figure, without insurance. Despite these estimated figures being high, a recent report relayed healthcare quality has improved at about 2.3 percent a year.

Affordable Care Act further aids states with health insurance resources

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 28 Feb 2011 02:00:00 -0600

The Affordable Care Act, still the source of much controversy, is now even easier for states to aid their health insurance customers.

The report states that $2.8 billion is available for states to improve the healthcare industry. This is only a small amount of what will be available in the future from this plan. The act's goal is to make sure that as many U.S. citizens have health insurance as possible.

"The Affordable Care Act is built on the foundation of providing States with the resources and flexibility they need to build a better, more affordable health care system," said Kathleen Sebelius, HHS Secretary. She added that states have the ability to help important and detailed health reforms continue.

Some of the benefits of the Affordable Healthcare Act outlined in the report are the ability to keep premiums low, anti-fraud resources, cheaper health insurance for those who retire early and support for those who need more in-depth care. The act also promotes prevention and wellness and has over $296 million in grants available to states.

Health insurance program "adultBasic" ending

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 28 Feb 2011 02:00:00 -0600

The Pennsylvania-based adultBasic healthcare program is only days away from ending, with those who are subscribed to the program are encouraged to look into other avenues for their health insurance.

The program is aimed toward the unemployed and those who are employed, but do not receive benefits at their place of work. Currently, 41,000 people are subscribed to the plan, which is a government-sanctioned health insurance program that started nine years ago. Subscribers who need help with searching for a new plan, have been encouraged to contact the Pennsylvania Department of Insurance.

Pennsylvania governor Tom Corbett has said publicly that the state of Pennsylvania is not able to continue funding the program, which has run through its budget much quicker than expected.

An option in lieu of adultBasic is Blue Cross Blue Shield's insurance policy called "Special Care," though the monthly premiums are higher than the state-funded program. Blue Cross Blue Shield was one of the main investors in the adultBasic plan. The program will stop funding their subscribers' health insurance effective the night of February 28.

Alaska refuses to enact federal healthcare law

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Fri, 25 Feb 2011 02:00:00 -0600

Governor Sean Parnell of Alaska announced recently that, because of constitutionality question, his state would not move to implement the health insurance exchange portion of last year's healthcare reform legislation.

Parnell's objection to the health insurance exchanges centers on recent court decisions in Florida and Virginia, which said Congress does not have the authority to impose such requirements on states. However, TIME Magazine points out that the constitutionality of the law will not be settled until the U.S. Supreme Court rules on the cases.

The governor's refusal to apply for federal grants for health insurance exchanges also means his state will be ineligible for millions in assistance offered by the government for implementation of the programs, although TIME Magazine reports this won't affect the law more generally.

The Supreme Court should uphold the Obama administration's position on the healthcare law, Washington and Lee law school professor Timothy Jost told the Associated Press.

"This is one renegade judge that has reached this decision," he said, labeling Judge Roger Vinson's ruling as "extremist," the AP added.

Wyoming state Senate nixes funding to fight healthcare reform law

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 23 Feb 2011 02:00:00 -0600

Legislators in Wyoming voted this week not to provide funds for the state's lawsuit against President Barack Obama's health insurance reform law.

The state's Republican governor, Matt Mead, recently added Wyoming to the list of states which have filed suit against the law, claiming that it is unconstitutional. The bill before the Wyoming senate would have provided $500,000 for legal services. Much of those funds would have allowed for the hiring of outside consultants to assist the state attorney general's office in fighting the law, according to the Casper Star-Tribune.

The legal efforts to blunt the effect of President Obama's reform bill has gathered steam for two primary reasons in recent weeks, according to pundits. Legislative efforts to repeal the law outright have stalled and have little prospect of passage, and recent decisions by federal judges in Virginia and Florida in favor of the law's critics have made it likely that the issue will go before the U.S. Supreme Court, where a favorable result for the bill's detractors is quite possible.

Health and Human Services Department announces grants for seven states leading the way on health insurance reform

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 16 Feb 2011 02:00:00 -0600

Early innovator grants were awarded this week to Kansas, Maryland, New York, Oklahoma, a consortium of New England states led by Massachusetts, Oregon and Wisconsin, in amounts ranging from $6 million to $55 million, the Department of Health and Human Services said in a statement released Wednesday.

HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius said the role played by states which adopt provisions of the healthcare reform law ahead of schedule is an important one.

"Early [i]nnovator states will play a critical role in developing a consumer-friendly marketplace where insurers must compete to deliver the best deal. These grants ensure that consumers in every state will be able to easily navigate their way through health insurance options," she said.

The grants will help early adopter states create the frameworks needed to implement health insurance exchanges, providing further valuable information for more general adoption, HHS said.

Consumers in those states could realize savings on health insurance policies if the exchanges get off the ground quickly and competition increases as predicted, industry experts say.

Montana legislators move to block compliance with federal health insurance reforms

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 16 Feb 2011 02:00:00 -0600

State legislators in Montana have proposed a bill that would prohibit the state from forming health insurance exchanges, as required by recent federal reforms, according to television news station KULR.

State Senator Jason Priest told the Billings NBC affiliate that the exchanges would remove consumer choice from the health insurance equation.

"You don't really get to offer a product that doesn't fit into these nice neat little packages. In other words, there really isn't any consumer choice," he said.

Others, however, told the TV station that the exchanges would actually increase the options available to consumers, make shopping easier and cut down on the legwork required for meaningful price comparisons between policies.

Frank Cote of Montana Blue Cross/Blue Shield compared the exchanges to Travelocity, adding transparency and ease of use to a marketplace many consumers find difficult to navigate, KULR said.

Opposition to the recent health insurance reforms remains intense, experts say, with repeal efforts proceeding at both state and federal levels, as well as through legislative and judicial channels.

New Jersey governor wants cuts for public employee health insurance plans

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 15 Feb 2011 02:00:00 -0600

The health insurance offered to public employees in New Jersey could become much more reminiscent of privately marketed policies, according to a report from the Associated Press.

State Senate president Stephen Sweeney apparently agrees, the AP said, and has already proposed a new system, under which public employees contribute a variable amount of money to their healthcare based on their salary.

"This is about saving local taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars a year when fully phased in, while at the same time not putting such a heavy burden on workers that they can't afford benefits," he told the AP.

The news source said the state's health insurance system is short $67 billion, and that retirees and government employees account for an increasingly large percentage of the state's health insurance spending.

Nationally, as well, spending on healthcare is taking up a significant share of government spending, and experts say projected Medicare deficits could be even more of a problem for the federal budget than those in Social Security, which receive more press attention.

Democrats ask Clarence Thomas to step aside in possible Supreme Court showdown

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Fri, 11 Feb 2011 02:00:00 -0600

House Democratic leadership sent Supreme Court justice Clarence Thomas a formal request recently, asking him to recuse himself from any court cases involving the constitutionality of the Affordable Care Act, according to a report from congressional blog the Hill.

Led by Congressman Anthony Weiner of New York, the blog said, the Democrats asserted that Thomas had financial ties to parties with an interest in any possible court decision on the issue.

"As members of Congress, we were surprised by recent revelations of your financial ties to leading organizations dedicated to lobbying against the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. We write today to respectfully ask that you maintain the integrity of this court and recuse yourself from any deliberations on the constitutionality of this act," the letter said, according to the Hill.

Two recent rulings against the Affordable Care Act have many speculating that the issue will reach the Supreme Court soon. Efforts to repeal the healthcare law have proceeded on a legislative front as well, although a Republican measure from the House of Representatives recently stalled in the Senate.

HHS: Affordable Care Act provisions extended to college students

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 10 Feb 2011 02:00:00 -0600

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced today that health insurance protections that became law last year as part of the Affordable Care Act will cover college students.

Insurers will no longer be allowed to impose lifetime caps on the amount they spend to guarantee health coverage for students, HHS said, and simple mistakes on health insurance applications will no longer be grounds for a company to drop a student when he or she gets sick.

"Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, college students will have more control over their health care. This rule would ensure that these plans remain a viable, affordable option for students while guaranteeing that they are regulated consistently and offer transparent benefits to students," said HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius.

In addition to the aforementioned protections, insurers will now also be barred from denying coverage to students with pre-existing conditions under 19 years of age, HHS said.

The announcement added to more good news for college students on healthcare, since the Affordable Care Act already provided the opportunity for them to stay on their parents' plans until later than they were previously able.

Iowa lawmakers beat back efforts to squeeze children's health insurance program

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 09 Feb 2011 02:00:00 -0600

An Iowa program that provides health insurance coverage for many of the state's most vulnerable children will continue with its present requirements, despite a recent effort to tighten eligibility requirements, the Quad City Times reports.

The bill, proposed by Republican state senators despite the fact that Democrats still maintain a majority in that chamber, was quickly defeated as all three members of a subcommittee voted against it today.

A large proportion of the kids currently covered by the Healthy And Well Kids in Iowa (HAWK-I) program would have been dropped if the income eligibility rules had been tightened to 150 percent of the federal poverty line from its current level of 300 percent. Nearly 22,000 of the more than 33,500 in the program would no longer have met requirements, according to the Times.

Additionally, advocates of HAWK-I told the newspaper, the proposed change would have violated rules for federal matching funds for the program, causing the state to lose $2 billion in Medicaid money.

Consumers should investigate any government programs available to them, since this could save them money on health insurance costs, experts say.

Efforts to repeal healthcare law may lead to government shutdown

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 09 Feb 2011 02:00:00 -0600

The latest attempt by conservative leaders in Congress to do away with President Barack Obama's recent health insurance reforms could result in a shutdown of the entire federal government, according to the Los Angeles Times.

House majority leader Eric Cantor told the newspaper the yearly budget bill produced by his chamber would not include funding for any of the healthcare law's programs.

"I expect to see, one way or another, the product coming out of the House to speak to that and to preclude any funding to be used for that," he said.

However, the Democratic majority in the Senate would be highly unlikely to pass such a budget bill, setting up a showdown between the two political parties over the government's funding and potentially necessitating the use of a stopgap legislative measure to keep federal workers on the job, the Times said.

Legal challenges to the healthcare reform law have also been moving forward lately, as a second federal judge recently ruled against the mandatory coverage provision. The case could get all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court, analysts say.

State legislature in Pennsylvania to vote on measure blocking health insurance requirement

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 08 Feb 2011 02:00:00 -0600

A bill that would shield Pennsylvanians from a federal requirement for health insurance coverage by 2014 is currently under consideration by the state legislature.

One of the most controversial parts of the recent Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, the health insurance mandate has been challenged in several lawsuits filed by state attorneys general. At least two courts have already sided with the bill's opponents, saying the requirement is unconstitutional.

Supporters, for their part, say the requirement is necessary to keep healthcare costs under control and ensure that the uninsured don't pass health insurance expenses on to the rest of the country. The system doesn't work if healthy people don't get coverage until they need it, they told CNBC.

After a committee vote on the measure, Pennsylvania state representative Matt Baker told the national news network, however, that the issue was one of choice.

"It gets singularly to the mandate issue of forcing people to buy insurance that they may not want, they may not need and they don't even have a choice," he said.

Next step in GOP healthcare repeal efforts targets health insurance exchanges

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 07 Feb 2011 02:00:00 -0600

The state-run health insurance exchanges set to go into effect in 2014 are the next objective of Republican attempts to stymie the implementation of healthcare reform. The Republican Governors Association recently issued a statement saying changes need to be made before that provision of the law takes effect.

"We wish states had been given more opportunity to provide input when the [Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act] was being drafted. We believe in its current form the law will force our health care system down a path sure to lead to higher costs and the disruption or discontinuation of millions of Americans’ insurance plans," the statement read in part.

However, opponents of the repeal movement say that the latest salvo is simple obstructionism on the part of the Republicans, and point out that the two other main arenas in which the party is trying to work against President Barack Obama's reforms are not panning out for them, despite recent court victories. Those cases will be appealed, opponents say, and the legislative movement to repeal the bill is more or less stalled.

Healthcare reform survives Senate vote

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 03 Feb 2011 02:00:00 -0600

As predicted by many political pundits, a Republican effort to push the House of Representatives' repeal of President Barack Obama's healthcare reform bill through the Senate failed on party lines yesterday.

According to the New York Times, GOP Senator John Cornyn of Texas poured scorn on the idea that the vote had been a waste of time, hinting that Democratic votes against repeal would be used in Republican campaign materials in the 2012 elections. Democratic Senator Tom Harkin of Iowa hit back, saying Republicans had "strictly ideological" objections to the health insurance law.

"They oppose the law's crackdown on abuses by health insurance companies and they oppose any serious effort by the federal government to secure health insurance coverage for tens of millions of Americans who currently have none," Harkin said, according to the Times.

Other Democrats also expressed confidence in their ability to hold back the GOP tide against the bill.

However, a provision in the law that would have imposed a tax-reporting requirement on businesses was repealed with 81 votes, and is expected to have no trouble in moving through the House.

Florida judge rules against individual mandate in healthcare reform bill

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 01 Feb 2011 02:00:00 -0600

Opponents of President Barack Obama's omnibus health insurance reform bill from 2010 won a significant legal victory in their fight to roll the measure back, as a federal judge in Florida ruled a mandate for individual health insurance unconstitutional.

The Department of Justice, which represents the administration in the matter, immediately said it would appeal, just as it had in a similar case - with a similar ruling - in Virginia. Judge Roger Vinson's ruling, however, went farther than the previous one, invalidating several additional provisions besides the most controversial one, which would require most Americans to have health insurance by 2014 or face financial penalties.

According to the Associated Press, a White House adviser blasted the decision as ill-advised, warning it represented a setback to efforts to decrease health insurance costs.

The Wall Street Journal says the victory is the biggest one yet for the law's opponents, and could have broad implications for the future of healthcare policy in America. Nevertheless, the paper reports, the Obama administration is confident in its chances of appeal, and has not halted its plans for implementation of the law.

President open to tweaks, but no overhaul of health insurance reform

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 31 Jan 2011 02:00:00 -0600

Efforts by President Barack Obama's political opposition to roll back large parts of the Affordable Care Act have made national headlines lately, but he is unlikely to agree to any major changes, Reuters reports.

President Obama told an advocacy group the health insurance reform bill was necessary to both provide coverage for as many Americans as possible and rein in the federal budget deficit, according to the news agency.

"We know that health care costs, including programs like Medicare and Medicaid, are the biggest contributors to our long-term deficit. Nobody disputes this. And this law will slow these costs," he said.

Opposition to the Affordable Care Act is proceeding along two primary courses, experts say. The first is a legislative effort by GOP leadership in the House of Representatives to repeal last year's bill, while the second is a legal campaign, joined by many state attorneys general, to have large parts of the measure invalidated as unconstitutional. Many public policy authorities say the former effort is unlikely to succeed, given the vanishingly small chances of any such measure passing the Democratic-controlled Senate with a large enough majority to override the President's inevitable veto.

HHS recovers $4 billion in health insurance fraud proceeds

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 25 Jan 2011 02:00:00 -0600

The Department of Health and Human Services recovered $4 billion in 2010 from criminals caught attempting to commit fraud, according to a statement released this week.

Secretary Kathleen Sebelius said the President had set the tone for the department's policy.

"President Obama has made it very clear that fraud and abuse of taxpayers’ dollars are unacceptable. And for too long, our fraud prevention efforts have focused on chasing after taxpayer dollars after they have already been paid out. Thanks to the President's leadership and the new tools provided by the Affordable Care Act, we can focus on stopping fraud before it happens," she said.

Federal health insurance programs are frequent targets for fraudsters, experts say. The criminals rely on the large scale of the government bureaucracy required to run Medicare and Medicaid to more or less slip through the cracks.

HHS also said $2.5 billion for private health insurance issuers was recovered by the Department of Justice, which used legal action under the False Claims Act to go after bogus claimants.

Report: New Massachusetts health care law seems to be working

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 24 Jan 2011 02:00:00 -0600

The early indications, according to Boston public radio station WBUR, are that new health insurance rules in Massachusetts are providing generally positive outcomes.

Instead of a per-visit compensation system, WBUR says, doctor's offices get a yearly stipend from Blue Cross Blue Shield, dubbed a global payment. These funds are at the heart of the new system, and the idea is to provide better care while simultaneously reducing healthcare costs.

The insurance company told the NPR station that "at least twice as many patients" on the new program got the type of preventative care that can help avert the need for other, more expensive procedures, including cancer screenings and regular check-ups.

Costs are also down, in large part because the increased rates of participation in preventative care programs have cut back on emergency room visits, which are among the most expensive types of medical care available, WBUR says.

The importance of heading a condition off before it has the chance to develop cannot be overemphasized, experts say. Both from a budgetary and medical perspective, all patients should be encouraged to get regular screenings.

Republican senator says party may be unable to repeal health insurance reforms

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Fri, 21 Jan 2011 02:00:00 -0600

Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska recently told an Anchorage TV station the GOP might not have the ability to push through a repeal of last year's healthcare reform bill.

After the bill's passage through the Republican-controlled House of Representatives earlier this week, Senate minority leader Mitch McConnell publicly stated he would try to bring the measure to a vote.

However, the Democratic majority in the Senate is likely to frustrate McConnell's aims, and experts say the bill probably won't even make it to a vote, much less pass. Even then, it would need a veto-proof two-thirds majority - which is even more unlikely - because of the near-certainty that President Barack Obama would refuse to sign the measure.

Americans curious about the effects of healthcare reform can consult government sources at the state, local, and federal levels for information. Consumers with pre-existing conditions are probably already familiar with at least one provision of the bill, which allowed them to be considered for health insurance without penalty or the chance of being dropped.

Repeal of health insurance reform passes House of Representatives

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 20 Jan 2011 02:00:00 -0600

The first step in the passage of a measure reversing last year's Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) was taken on Wednesday, as the House of Representatives passed the bill 245-189.

GOP leadership in the House had planned for the repeal vote ever since being swept to power in the 2010 mid-term elections. The party argues that President Barack Obama's ambitious healthcare changes impose significant new costs on taxpayers at a time when they can ill afford to pay it. Additionally, many opponents of the reforms say it violates Congress' power to regulate commerce by requiring the purchase of health insurance for all Americans by 2014.

However, the reform's supporters say that significant problems with the health insurance status quo - most notably exaggerated costs and an inability for people with pre-existing conditions to get coverage - could no longer be lived with. They argue that the measure provides needed care and makes insurance cheaper.

Whichever side is correct, the repeal movement has little chance of proceeding - Democratic control of the Senate and President Obama's continued presence in the White House likely represent insurmountable obstacles.

ER doctor: Arizona shooting highlights strengths, weaknesses of U.S. trauma care

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 19 Jan 2011 02:00:00 -0600

Representative Gabrielle Giffords received rapid, expert emergency medicine after she was shot earlier this month in Arizona, but the same care might not be available to all Americans if attention isn't paid to trauma centers around the country, according to an op-ed from Dr. Leigh Vinocur in the Huffington Post.

High-level trauma centers in the U.S. face funding shortfalls that have already forced many to close, and many more could be shuttered soon, Dr. Vinocur writes. She cites a report from the American College of Emergency Physicians as saying that 21 such facilities have been closed in the past decade, including one that treated more than 800 people after the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.

The rising number of uninsured Americans who are forced to turn to emergency rooms when already sick also drives costs higher, Vinocur says, and results in numerous lawsuits from patients already at a high risk of a bad medical outcome.

An ounce of prevention, health insurance authorities agree, is almost always worth a pound of cure. Regular checkups and preventative care can help avert the need for costly, risky ER treatment and leave those facilities free to deal with trauma victims when the necessity arises.

Whole-person healthcare program gets $3.9 million in grant funding

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 19 Jan 2011 02:00:00 -0600

The Advancing Care Together program at the University of Colorado School of Medicine recently received a nearly $4 million grant from the Colorado Health Foundation, the school announced today.

ACT is a program designed to tackle the fragmentation of healthcare by uniting mental health, substance abuse, and primary care providers in a cohesive whole. The program's director, Dr. Larry Green, said ACT is set to make good progress toward its goals.

"ACT will engage people at the front lines of service to offer their best ideas about how to work together in primary health care and mental health care settings. There should be no 'wrong door' in a properly constructed system - whether people understand their problems as emotional, behavioral or physical; their needs should be comprehensively addressed," Green said.

ACT operations began officially on January 3. It will dispense grants of its own to medical practices with innovative ideas about integrating care, according to the group's announcement of the Colorado Health Foundation's bequest.

Experts say programs looking to improve healthcare services could end up saving many patients on their health insurance bills by finding cost reductions they may have missed.

Treasury Secretary says PPACA repeal would damage nation's economy

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 19 Jan 2011 02:00:00 -0600

Rolling back the large-scale healthcare reforms passed by the last Congress could be a powerful negative influence on the nation's economic recovery, according to a blog post from Treasury Secretary Tim Geithner.

The secretary writes that there are numerous economic benefits to the reforms.

"The [PPACA] helps businesses and the overall economy by eliminating hidden costs that currently contribute to higher health care premiums charged to businesses and the government. For example, health care costs for the uninsured are currently passed on through higher premiums to those to those who pay for health insurance - an estimated cost of an additional $1,000 per worker with family coverage each year," Geithner says.

New regulations that make it more difficult for health insurance companies to raise rates on their customers should also help U.S. businesses, he adds, since employers are responsible for a large share of those costs.

Regardless, however, a vote to repeal the measure is set for today in the House of Representatives. GOP leaders may be able to get the bill through that chamber, but it is unlikely to go any further, experts say.

Administration appeals federal judge's ruling against healthcare reform

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 18 Jan 2011 02:00:00 -0600

In the wake of a ruling by a federal district judge in Virginia that the mandatory health insurance portion of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act was unconstitutional, President Barack Obama's administration has appealed to a higher court.

The Virginia judge, Henry Hudson, said that requiring most Americans to purchase health insurance coverage exceeded Congress' power to regulate commerce and invalidated it on those grounds. However, proponents of the law say the requirement is no different from that present in every state but New Hampshire for citizens to buy auto insurance.

Justice Department spokesperson Tracy Schmaler told Reuters the government was still certain it would ultimately win the case.

"There is clear and well-established legal precedent that Congress acted within its constitutional authority in passing the Affordable Care Act and we are confident that we will ultimately prevail," she said.

The idea behind the insurance mandate is to help lower costs across the board by getting more Americans to pay into the system, experts say. Opponents of the bill have also begun to work in the legislative sphere, and a repeal vote is set for tomorrow in the House.

Healthcare reform commission created in Rhode Island

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 17 Jan 2011 02:00:00 -0600

Amid a national furor over an effort to repeal the recently enacted healthcare reform bill, Rhode Island Governor Lincoln Chafee announced his state will form an executive commission to help integrate bill's changes into its existing healthcare infrastructure.

Chafee said he was glad to have established the commission, and expressed hope that it would help achieve the goals of national healthcare reform.

"We want Rhode Island to be a national leader in terms of implementing federal healthcare reform, with the overall goal of accessible and affordable healthcare for all Rhode Islanders. This commission, led by Lieutenant Governor [Elizabeth] Roberts, who has decades of valuable experience with healthcare-related issues, will be a key step toward achieving these goals," the Governor said in an announcement.

The commission will take over from the Healthy RI task force in advancing new healthcare ideas in the state, according to Chafee's statement.

Residents of Rhode Island or any other state can use the government's website at healthcare.gov to obtain more up-to-date information about health insurance coverage.

Mental healthcare reform urged in wake of Arizona shooting

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 17 Jan 2011 02:00:00 -0600

A Democratic Congresswoman, days after her colleague Gabrielle Giffords was nearly killed in a mass shooting allegedly perpetrated by an unbalanced man, said the country must make the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness a higher priority.

Representative Grace Napolitano - a co-chair of the Congressional Mental Health Caucus - said there was a lack of helpful information available to Americans on the topic.

"We need to begin to impress upon both the state and federal governments the urgency of this. I'm not saying it could have prevented this, but it certainly would have been better to have help for the individual before it got to this point. We are not informing and educating the public enough to help them make the decisions to help those that they love," Napolitano said in a statement.

To this end, she says, she has introduced the Mental Health in Schools Act in an attempt to catch potentially serious mental illnesses earlier in life, and hopefully avoid tragedies like the one which happened earlier this month in Arizona.

Gallup poll: Economy, not healthcare reform, should be top government priority

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Fri, 14 Jan 2011 02:00:00 -0600

Americans are more interested in economic fixes and unemployment than they are in healthcare reform, said a Gallup poll released today, despite the current battle being waged on Capitol Hill over repeal of President Barack Obama's reforms of last year.

Healthcare placed sixth on the list of political priorities presented to respondents in Gallup's latest public opinion survey, behind the economy, unemployment, the federal budget deficit, corruption in government and education.

Of the three major political identifications recognized by Gallup, Democrats were far and away the most likely to list healthcare as an "extremely important" issue confronting the country, at 47 percent. By contrast, 39 percent of independents and just one-third of registered Republicans regarded the issue in the same way, Gallup reported.

Nevertheless, House GOP leaders signaled their intention to proceed with a vote to repeal the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA). While the repeal bill should pass the House, it will likely stall in the Senate, and will almost certainly be vetoed by President Obama otherwise.

GOP schedules health insurance reform repeal vote in House

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 13 Jan 2011 02:00:00 -0600

A widely hyped vote in the House of Representatives to roll back President Barack Obama's landmark health insurance reforms is scheduled for next week, according to the Washington Post.

Republican leadership in the chamber had originally planned to hold the vote this week, but cancelled all legislative business in the wake of the mass shooting in Arizona, which claimed the life of a federal judge and seriously wounded Representative Gabrielle Giffords.

A spokesman for prominent House Republican Eric Cantor told the Post it was a critical time for the chamber to get back to business.

"Americans have legitimate concerns about the cost of the new health care law and its effect on the ability to grow jobs in our country. It is our expectation that the debate will continue to focus on those substantive policy differences surrounding the new law," Brad Dayspring told the newspaper.

Column urges lawmakers not to ditch healthcare reform

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 11 Jan 2011 02:00:00 -0600

The omnibus healthcare reforms passed by the last Congress should remain in place, despite Republican pledges to roll them back, according to Business Week guest columnist John Arensmeyer.

Tax credits in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) allow small business owners to offer healthcare much more cheaply than they were previously able to, Arensmeyer says, instead of imposing additional costs on them, as critics allege.

A large part of the opposition to PPACA in the business community may stem from simple ignorance of what the healthcare reform bill will do, Arensmeyer writes, pointing out that over half don't know about the aforementioned tax cuts.

State health insurance exchanges, as well, will be a boon to small business, giving them extra leverage and options for purchasing coverage, according to Arensmeyer. Such negotiations with large insurers have previously only been available to major corporations, he adds.

The House's first vote on HR 2, to repeal healthcare reform, was scheduled for tomorrow, but lawmakers postponed all of the chamber's business in the wake of the tragic shooting spree that seriously wounded Representative Gabrielle Giffords and killed six other people.

Connecticut board unveils outlines of new state health insurance plan

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 10 Jan 2011 02:00:00 -0600

A new state health insurance plan could provide coverage for more than half of Connecticut's uninsured population while simultaneously saving more than $225 million in taxes, according to a report in last week's Connecticut Post.

A spokeswoman for the Universal Health Care Foundation of Connecticut, Janet Davenport, told the newspaper the plan could help preserve some national reforms if they are repealed by the new GOP leadership in the U.S. House of Representatives.

"The federal healthcare reform has started some of the work, doing away with some of the limitations put on consumers by health insurance companies, but even under federal reform, there are still people who are uninsured and under-insured," she said.

The idea behind the plan - called SustiNet - was to maintain control over health insurance costs and extend coverage to those in need, the Urban Institute's Stan Dorn told the Post.

Consumers who have had trouble getting health insurance coverage should continue to monitor the progress of new federal and state programs to see if they can get on board, experts say.

House to delay healthcare repeal vote in wake of shooting

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 10 Jan 2011 02:00:00 -0600

The shocking attack on Arizona Representative Gabrielle Giffords this weekend that left six dead and 20 injured has prompted a prominent GOP House leader, Eric Cantor, to delay a critical vote on repeal of last year's healthcare reform bill.

The vote had been scheduled for Wednesday, and had been arguable the hottest political discussion in the country before the shooting spree that targeted Giffords and others. While the House measure was expected to pass comfortably, it is likely not to pass the Senate, which is still under Democratic control.

Cantor described the attempted assassination as "horrifying," according to Reuters.

"It is horrifying that she was exposed to such violence at an event designed to reach the people she represents," he told Reuters, which added a new legislative calendar would be released quickly in the wake of the tragedy.

High-end healthcare, coincidentally, is responsible for preserving the stricken Congresswoman's life, as many experts credit adroit and aggressive treatment by neurosurgeons for relieving swelling on Giffords' brain and providing her with her current cautiously optimistic prognosis.

Report: Healthcare transparency measure takes effect in Wisconsin

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Fri, 07 Jan 2011 02:00:00 -0600

More complete information about how health insurance dollars are being spent by policy providers in Wisconsin is now legally required to be provided to consumers, according to a report in the Wisconsin State Journal.

The new availability of information could be particularly important for consumers with high-deductible plans or coverage which requires them to pay a certain percentage of the bill themselves, the newspaper said, though all policyholders could learn new details about their healthcare.

A co-sponsor of the bill that led to the new law, state Representative Jon Richards, told the State Journal the idea was to educate the public.

"We wanted people to have a clear sense of where they can get the best value for their health care dollar," he said.

Some healthcare providers in Wisconsin already provided that type of information, but the new law made it universal, the newspaper reported.

Experts say providing more information to consumers should help them make better-informed decisions about healthcare and allow them to save money where they can on co-payments and treatment costs.

Controversy over congressional healthcare spreads

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Fri, 07 Jan 2011 02:00:00 -0600

A comment from an incoming GOP freshman representative touched off a fresh round of recrimination on Capitol Hill this week, as lawmakers traded blows over the Republican effort to roll back President Barack Obama's healthcare reform measure.

Andy Harris, a newly elected Maryland congressman, complained publicly that his own healthcare did not take effect until nearly a month after he began work as a representative, and asked whether he could purchase rollover coverage from the government, according to Politico.com.

Democrats seized on his comments to level charges of hypocrisy at their rivals, accusing GOP lawmakers of enjoying top-notch government healthcare while denying their constituents access to it. The Wall Street Journal says a Democratic measure requiring representatives to declare whether or not they would accept government healthcare was scuttled by Republican opposition. Six new Republicans have already declared they will not accept such care, however.

The Journal also points out that Americans believe lawmakers who want to repeal healthcare reform should refuse to accept their government policies, according to recent polling data, a stance found more strongly among self-identified Republicans.

Catholic religious authorities split with Arizona hospital over abortion case

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 06 Jan 2011 02:00:00 -0600

The Bishop of Phoenix has removed the Catholic status of St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, after a 2009 abortion that the institution said was medically necessary, according to the Catholic News Agency.

John Brehany, executive director of the Catholic Medical Association, told the agency Bishop Thomas Olmsted had done his best to reconcile the dispute with the hospital.

"The bishop tried to bring them back," Brehany said, adding that Olmsted had acted to preserve Catholic values and identity in healthcare. In modern times, Catholic institutions are frequently pressured to make concessions to prevailing social norms, but these may run counter to church teachings on a number of issues, Brehany told CNA.

The news agency points out that there have been other cases of Catholic hospitals breaking with religious authorities over treatment disputes, such as one institution in Oregon that performed hundreds of sterilizations each year.

The relationship between religious doctrine and medicine has long been a controversial one. While Catholic authorities make some minor allowances for contraception in the case of rape or incest, the practice is not generally approved by church leaders.

Battle over healthcare reform heading into next round

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 05 Jan 2011 02:00:00 -0600

The two sides in the political battle over the future of health insurance in the U.S. are gearing for a fresh confrontation as the 2012 presidential race edges closer. Republicans are looking to roll back or repeal as much of President Barack Obama's wide-ranging healthcare reform as they can, while Democrats will try and defend their accomplishments to the voters.

One GOP strategy, to push back against unpopular provisions of the bill like the individual healthcare mandate scheduled to go into effect in 2014, contrasts strongly with a broad-based repeal motion currently taking shape, according to the Washington Post.

The newspaper adds, however, that an effort to directly repeal healthcare reform is unlikely to succeed. Although the Republican Party controls the House of Representatives, they are a minority in the Senate, and President Obama could veto such a measure in any case.

Regardless of one's political views, the odds are good that healthcare reform will significantly affect one's coverage either now or in the future. Consulting with an insurance professional can help consumers understand how their healthcare may change.

HHS announces progress made in 2010

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 30 Dec 2010 02:00:00 -0600

Healthcare in American saw major changes in 2010 thanks to actions made by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

One of the largest changes made in 2010 includes the Affordable Care Act, a measure designed to hold health insurers more accountable and employer consumers. The Let's Move campaign spearheaded by First Lady Michelle Obama aimed at combating childhood obesity was also launched this year. The Medicare program also saw improvements.

HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius says many Americans lives will be positively impacted by the new laws.

"Through the implementation of the Affordable Care Act, more Americans have access to health coverage as well as new rights and benefits in their health insurance," says Sebelius. "Efforts to improve public health and reverse the twin epidemics of obesity and tobacco use in the U.S. made significant progress."

Many components of the Affordable Care Act have yet to be implemented. One of the new measures will require states to establish exchanges where consumers can purchase individual health insurance plans at more competitive rates. Also, more people will be eligible for federal programs.

States receive bonus funds for Medicaid enrollment progress

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 29 Dec 2010 02:00:00 -0600

States across the country are getting a financial boost from the government for enrolling uninsured children in Medicaid.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced 15 states will receive a portion of $206 million, a huge jump from the $75 million awarded to 10 states last year.

Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services deputy administrator Cindy Mann says the awards highlight progress being made despite economic obstacles.

"We are pleased to be able to work in partnership with states as they continue to improve their Medicaid and CHIP programs and make them more accessible for families," says Mann. "The increase in both the number of states receiving awards and the amount distributed is particularly encouraging given the difficult economic times states are facing."

In order to qualify for a "performance bonus," states had to streamline enrollment procedures and significantly increase the number of children in the program.

Helping families obtain affordable health insurance quotes or coverage through other means is important. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau reveals that 7.5 million children were uninsured last year. Those who lack coverage may not seek care when they need it due to costs.

More segments of healthcare reform to be implemented

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 28 Dec 2010 02:00:00 -0600

Several new provisions under the Affordable Care Act are set to take place January 1, reminds Consumers Union.

The organization wants consumers to be aware that new regulations will require health insurance companies to abide by certain rules. Some of the new laws include how insurers can use premium dollars and others affect Medicare beneficiaries.

Consumers Union's health reform campaign director DeAnn Friedholm says hospitals will also change operations based on new laws.

"Starting in 2011, more insurance premium dollars will go towards medical care instead of profits, seniors will have better access to preventive care, and all hospitals will begin to disclose their infection rates to the public," says Friedholm.

With all the changes taking place in the healthcare industry, it is easy for consumers to become confused. The government created a website called healthcare.gov that helps consumers research affordable health insurance quotes as well as a timeline for when new parts of reform are scheduled to take effect.

Some healthcare provisions have already been implemented. For example, adults under the age of 26 are now allowed to stay on their parents' plan.

Changes headed to healthcare in Maine

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 27 Dec 2010 02:00:00 -0600

The healthcare climate in Maine could be changing thanks to a new director of MaineCare, reports the Sun Journal.

Dr. Dora Anne Mills will play a part in the type of care about a quarter of the state's residents receive, says the paper. A large percentage of those on MaineCare have higher rates of poor health than those on group or individual health insurance plans.

Mills told the paper that preventive care measures could help improve the health of many residents. She continued on to say the state is moving away from a plan that reimburses medical teams for services and towards one which consists of a network of providers.

Under the Affordable Care Act, health insurance companies will be required to cover the costs of preventative care screenings. The costs upfront may end up to long-term savings down the road.

Those who are aware they are at an increased risk of developing certain conditions can take steps to improve their health. Type 2 diabetes, for example, is often preventable. If people learn early on that their lifestyles need to change in order to ward off the condition, they may be able to modify their lifestyles enough to ever develop the disease.

Virginia receives healthcare recommendations

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 23 Dec 2010 02:00:00 -0600

Virginia should operate its own health insurance exchanges, recommends the Virginia Health Reform Initiative Advisory Council.

The Advisory Council was established earlier this year to help implement new measures under healthcare reform. Other recommendations include better use of technology and improved coordination between medical professionals. It is the hope that performing such actions will enhance care while decreasing expenses.

Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell says he is pleased to have received the recommendations from the committee.

"These leaders have come together and worked diligently to find better ways to deliver high quality healthcare at an affordable cost to the citizens of Virginia," says McDonnell.

One of the main goals of reform is to establish exchanges to make it easier for people to find affordable health insurance quotes. If a state decides not to operate its own system, the government will take charge.

The administration has not won over everyone in the healthcare reform debate. Many people have voiced their opposition to the measure. Recently, a Virginia judge ruled forcing most Americans to purchase coverage as unconstitutional.

Under current law, most Americans must obtain health insurance by 2014 or face a federal penalty.

California insurance commissioner issues guidance on reform laws

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 23 Dec 2010 02:00:00 -0600

Recent legislation makes it illegal for health insurance companies to deny coverage to children based on medical history and California Insurance Commissioner Steve Poizner recently issued a reminder to insurers of the new law.

Poizner says he created a draft letter aimed at clarifying the new regulations for insurers to abide by. In California, companies cannot deny individual health insurance coverage for those under the age of 19 based on pre-existing conditions. Additionally, the state law allows children to be enrolled in a plan at any time.

"I want to make sure that insurers completely understand their obligations under the new health reform laws, especially as they relate to health coverage for children," says Poizner. "I am issuing this guidance to provide clarity on a complicated new law, and to make sure insurance companies have clear direction regarding the new laws' requirements of greater access to health insurance coverage for children."

On the national level, health insurance companies must allow adult children to remain on their parents' policies until the age of 26. Also, insurers will be required to cover costs associated with preventative care screenings.

Affordable Care Act aims to reduce healthcare costs

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 23 Dec 2010 02:00:00 -0600

Healthcare costs have been rapidly increasing. To help mitigate this trend, the Affordable Care Act has several provisions aimed at regulating insurers.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services says insurance premiums have surged more than 130 percent since 1999. New measures will require insurers to publicly justify unreasonable rate hikes. Proposed increases of more than 10 percent will face increased review.

HHS director of consumer information and insurance oversight Jay Angoff says the new requirement will benefit policyholders.

"The proposed rate review policy will empower consumers, promote competition, encourage insurers to do more to control health care costs and discourage insurers from charging premiums which are unjustified," said Jay Angoff.

There are several other provisions under the Affordable Care Act that impact consumers. For example, health insurers are not able to deny coverage based on pre-existing conditions and adult children are allowed to stay on their parents policy until the age of 26.

The Affordable Care Act was signed into law earlier this year. Some provisions have already been implemented while others will take effect in the upcoming years.

Virginia judge strikes down healthcare reform

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 14 Dec 2010 02:00:00 -0600

Healthcare reform has been met with opposition from some since President Barack Obama signed the Affordable Care Act into law. Those who oppose the legislation say it should be up to them to determine how they spend their money and whether they have coverage.

Virginia District Judge Henry Hudson has ruled part of the reform unconstitutional. The Obama administration will most likely appeal the ruling and have the decision sent to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Similar cases were raised in Michigan in October and Virginia last month, but in both cases the judges ruled for the government.

"This dispute is not simply about regulating the business of insurance or crafting a scheme of universal health insurance coverage, it's about an individual's right to choose to participate,'' Hudson wrote in his ruling.

Part of the Affordable Care Act requires people to have health insurance. Those who aren't offered coverage through their employer will be required to purchase an individual health insurance plan by 2014 or face a penalty. Some people may also qualify for federal programs based on income.

Commissioner calls for more thorough rate review

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 08 Dec 2010 02:00:00 -0600

Washington State Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler wants to make some changes when it comes to health insurance premium rate increases.

To help make the market more fair, Kreidler says he wants to be able to consider investment income.

"Some non-profit insurers have built up hundreds of millions of dollars in surpluses in recent years, while still seeking double-digit rate hikes," says Kreidler. "I want the law changed so we can take a closer look at that, while still maintaining a vital insurance market."

Premium increases aren't new. Health insurance premiums have consistently increased over the years.

Kreidler also notes how difficult it is for people to pay individual health insurance plans so it's especially important to pay close attention to rate hikes on these policies.

One of the components of healthcare reform is the requirement for insurance companies to spend at least 80 percent of a policyholder's premiums on medical expenses.

Without being able to raise rates as high as they want, insurers' profits will be more regulated. Health insurance companies have fought over many of the new laws.

HHS lauds Affordable Care Act

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 02:00:00 -0600

With healthcare costs and living expenses high, many people are searching for affordable health insurance quotes. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services says the Affordable Care Act will help ensure people's coverage is a good value.

Prior to current laws, health insurance companies did not face scrutiny as intense as they do today. One of the provisions of the act requires insurers to spend at least 80 percent of policyholder premiums on care. A proposed rate hike would have to be justified by the company.

Office of Consumer Information and Insurance director Jay Angoff says the new rules will help ensure insurance providers don't inflate prices.

"These rules were carefully developed through a transparent and fair process with significant input from the public, the states, and other key stakeholders," says Angoff. "As we build a bridge to 2014, when better, more affordable options are available to consumers, these rules will help make health insurance fairer for consumers now."

By 2014 most people will be required to have health insurance. Coverage can be obtained through a variety of sources, including an employer, an exchange or the government.

Insurers and government make mutual agreement

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 23 Nov 2010 02:00:00 -0600

Healthcare reform has created a battle between insurers and the government. New oversight by officials aims to impose rules on insurance provides to ensure a certain amount of money goes directly towards patient care.

Rules were put in place, reports Reuters, regarding use of customer premium payments. The news source reports that both sides got a bit of what they were looking for.

"Under the final rules unveiled by the Department of Health and Human Services, insurers will be able to deduct federal and state taxes from premium dollars to help meet the new spending thresholds but not taxes related to investments or capital gains," says Reuters.

Also part of healthcare reform, those who do not get coverage through their employer or the government will be required to purchase an individual health insurance policy. Exchanges will be required by law in each state by 2014. Such programs are designed to offer more affordable options for coverage than are currently available.

For those looking for coverage now, quotes can be obtained online or by calling individual insurance providers. Consumers should determine what their needs are before selecting a plan.

Government announces funding for community centers

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Fri, 19 Nov 2010 02:00:00 -0600

Millions of dollars are being pumped into the healthcare system to create new services. Money is also being used to help existing structures. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has announced it is awarding $8 million to community health centers.

Community health centers play a crucial role in the community. It's estimated that 40 percent of patients are uninsured and are charged a fee proportionate to their income.

HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius says the services at health centers provide care to a wide range of people.

"These funds will provide assistance to community health centers to help them improve access to healthcare services, especially for those who are uninsured, isolated or medically vulnerable," says Sebelius.

People don't have to go without health insurance. Consumers can search for affordable health quotes online or seek federal programs. Both are good options depending on income and employment situation. In the near future, health insurance exchanges will be in place, offering another place for people to purchase coverage.

Senators say states, not government should be in charge of healthcare

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Fri, 19 Nov 2010 02:00:00 -0600

U.S. Senators Scott Brown and Ron Wyden may have different political perspectives, but both agree that when it comes to healthcare, states should have the power to make their own decisions.

The senators introduced a bill this week that would allow each state to devise its own plan. The duo noted that not all states are the same, so it's important to allow each one to make it's own decisions.

"States shouldn't be forced by the federal government to adopt a one-size-fits all health care plan. Each state's health care needs are different," says Brown. "Our bill provides flexibility, and allows states like Massachusetts to opt out of portions of the healthcare law."

Under the current law, states have to wait until 2017 to apply for waivers on certain provisions.

Browns state of Massachusetts has required residents to have health insurance for years. It's the hope that by having such a waiver in place, states will be free to make their own decisions as to how to best meet the coverage needs of their residents.

Healthcare on the ballot in several states

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 03 Nov 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Virtually everyone will be required to have health insurance coverage in 2014 under the Affordable Care Act. While the idea of everyone having access to medical services sounds good to most, a number of people oppose being required to sign up for a plan.

Residents of Arizona, Colorado and Oklahoma will have a chance to cast their ballot for a proposed constitutional amendment this month. Some people are against the law because they feel it should be their decision whether to purchase insurance. On the other hand, those who support the law see it as a way to make sure people can pay for care when they need it.

An AARP article asserts that without requiring everyone to have health insurance, the industry cannot support all the other provisions under the law. Providing preventative care for free and other stipulations will be a strain in the system.

Recently, a study by Lockton Benefit Group revealed that employers in Colorado pay more for coverage than other states. Even those who have an individual health insurance plan may find they have to pay more for care.

Experts say new rate calculation method necessary

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 27 Oct 2010 02:00:00 -0500

It's no secret that many Americans think changes need to be made in the healthcare system. While the government has created a number of new laws, there is still room for improvement in most people's eyes.

According to a survey by the Commonwealth Fund, 56 percent of healthcare opinion leaders feel there needs to be a change in the way doctors are paid. Those respondents indicated they were in favor of a system where the government sets rates for all payers. The researchers indicated that switching to such a method may result in savings from fewer administrative needs.

Other research has shown that healthcare costs have steadily increased over the years.

Fewer expenses may result in savings getting passed down to consumers with either a group or individual health insurance plan.

Commonwealth Fund president Karen Davis says the current healthcare system results in price variations.

"Experts agree that if private payers and public programs could come together and agree to pay the same way, and the same amount, we can improve the efficiency of our health care system, eliminate administrative waste, and create better experiences for patients," says Davis.

Iowa receives healthcare grant

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 26 Oct 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Most Americans will be required to have health insurance by 2014. A number of people may end up purchasing individual health insurance plans, obtaining group coverage, or filing for government assistance as a result. While that date may seem far away for the average consumer, the clock is ticking for those who have to ensure all the appropriate measures are in place.

Iowa is set to receive a grant worth more than $313,700 to help the state guide consumers through the process of enrolling in healthcare programs. Given the number of uninsured Americans, however, there are a number of people that will need help navigating the enrollment process.

Governor Chet Culver says he is pleased the state has received the grant.

"This is very good news for Iowa's consumers," says Culver. "This grant will ensure that Iowans will have quick and immediate help in entering into the new health care system."

Culver has voiced his concerns over healthcare and insurance in the past. Earlier this year, he called on a major health insurance provider in the state to justify an 18 percent rate hike. At that time, Culver said he was concerned about the increases.

Insurance regulators set to establish medical loss ratio rules

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Fri, 22 Oct 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Health insurance companies have been under intense scrutiny as of late for their rates. On Thursday, insurance regulators finalized their recommendations for what percentage of of money should go towards patient care.

Now, the rules are set to go to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius. Under reform, insurers will be required to spend at least 80 percent on medical care next year.

Companies are fighting for the broadest possible definition of direct health care, whereas consumer groups have been urging for less leniency on terms.

Consumer Watchdog Washington DC director Carmen Balber says that while it's good regulators aren't backing down, a cap still needs to be put in place .

"The law still does nothing to cap rates and consumers are struggling to pay double-digit premium increases now," says Balber. "President Obama should forbid premium hikes until insurance companies comply with pricing provisions of the new federal law and explain increases before they take effect."

In addition to regulating how much money insurers must spend on care, reform will also require most people to have health insurance coverage in the future. People can obtain insurance through an employer or purchase an individual health insurance plan.

New York claims success with prior approval rate increases

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Fri, 22 Oct 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Anyone who has searched for affordable health insurance quotes knows that premiums can vary depending on plane type and company. Rates can also fluctuate based on new government regulation.

The New York State Insurance Department recently made public how they have been working to keep premiums down. Laws require health insurance companies to submit a formal request of approval before they can go into effect. Before the regulation was in place, insurers simply had to file rates and then use them.

New York Department of Insurance superintendent James Wrynn says proposed rate increases have been reduced because of prior approval.

"We certainly are not happy with even the reduced increases, and we will keep working to keep costs down," says Wrynn. "But at least we could make sure these increases were justified by the rising cost of health care in New York. We reduced every rate increase request that we found excessive or unreasonable."

Data from Families USA shows other states have also shown success with prior approval. In Indiana, for example, officials say they get health insurance companies to lower increases half the time.

Group urges President stop insurance hikes

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 20 Oct 2010 02:00:00 -0500

A number of state officials have begun to implement measures to help people find affordable health insurance quotes and keep premiums at bay. There are, however, some groups that are against such actions.

The Consumer Watchdog group is asserting that health insurance companies are trying to raise rates while they still can. Furthermore, the group is urging President Barack Obama to prohibit insurers from hiking rates again.

Consumer Watchdog Washington D.C. director Carmen Balber says more needs to be done to keep companies in check.

"In the meantime, insurers rush to raise premiums now just in case they have to rein in spending tomorrow," says Balber. "President Obama has the power to protect consumers from arbitrary price hikes by freezing premiums until insurers explain how they're spent in the full light of day."

Premium increases and the like have been subject of much debate. Earlier this year, a health insurance provider withdrew a rate increase request in California after an error was detected in their mathematical calculations.

Oregon receives funding for health insurance programs

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 20 Oct 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Understanding health insurance can be difficult for even the most savvy consumer, especially with all the new measures taking effect. Oregon's Department of Consumer and Business Services has received a $400,000 federal grant to help educate consumers.

Such services may be needed in particular by those who find themselves entering the individual health insurance market for the first time. By 2014, most people will be required to have health insurance. As a result, a number of individuals may be seeking coverage.

Insurance Division administrator Teresa Miller says the funding will help state agencies and companies provide services to residents.

"Consumers need help figuring out which program best fits their needs or who to turn to with questions about health care reform or their insurance policy," says Miller.

Among other things, the department plans to use the money to help reach disproportionately uninsured people in the state.

In addition to seeking help through local agencies, consumers can also research plans online. Earlier this year, the government created a website aimed specifically at educating consumers on various private and public insurance options.

CEOs say healthcare reform will have financial impact

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 14 Oct 2010 02:00:00 -0500

The nation's healthcare industry is undergoing rapid changes thanks to the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. While most people would agree the new regulations will impact them, just how much remains unclear.

Companies, for example, are expected to offer health insurance to a wider range of employees. Many who purchased individual health insurance plans will be eligible for group coverage offered by their employer.

Such a change has made some businesses wonder how they will afford the increase in costs. Research by PricewaterhouseCoopers shows that nearly 50 percent of CEOs surveyed believe healthcare reform will have a financial impact on their company.

PwC Private Company Services partner Ken Esch says that more than 40 percent of CEOs saying they may invest in wellness programs is an important consideration to take note of.

"That a considerable number of CEOs are looking to up their investment in wellness programs signals a shift in thinking," says Esch, "with greater focus on a long-term approach to the health of employees - one that emphasizes preventive measures."

Benefits are an important tool employers use to attract and maintain employees. A recent survey by a major health insurance provider found that 90 percent of respondents said offering a broad spectrum of benefits was important when considering a new job.

HHS tries to broaden insurance options for children

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 13 Oct 2010 02:00:00 -0500

It became illegal for health insurance companies to deny children coverage based on their medical history last month. The government is now reminding insurance companies they must be in compliance with new regulations.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius wrote a letter to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners reminding them of their legal obligation. .

"We have been working closely with the states in their role as insurance regulators and with insurance companies to find ways to improve access to coverage for America's families," says Sebelius.

The majority of health insurance providers haven't been happy about this specific provision of reform. Some have fought back by not offering health insurance quotes for child-only policies. In an article written earlier this year, The Christian Science Monitor noted that from a health insurer's perspective, the coverage is suppose to help protect people from future incidents, not current problems. The Monitor made a comparison to auto insurance, saying it was similar to a motorist asking for help with an already damaged vehicle.

Tax cut to benefit thousands

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 11 Oct 2010 02:00:00 -0500

With the unemployment rate still high, there are a large number of parents who struggle to find affordable family health insurance plans. Even when economic conditions improve, many may still wonder how they will be able to provide health insurance coverage for themselves and their children.

National Public Radio recently profiled a family of four living in Alabama, named Pendergrass. While their family income of $43,000 a year is about average in the state, Darryl Pendergrass noted that he hasn't received a raise in years because of budget cuts, but he has been expected to pay more for health insurance.

A recent study performed on behalf of Families USA predicts that 442,000 people, and families like the Pendergrasses, will be eligible for healthcare premium tax credits in 2014, when health insurance will be required for most Americans.

Families USA executive director Ron Pollack says the tax cut will help working families pay for health insurance coverage.

"This is the largest middle-income tax cut in history, and it will enable many hard-working Alabamans to afford health insurance premiums that have stretched family budgets," says Pollack. "The tax cut will not only put significant extra cash in Alabamans' pocketbooks, but it will also ease the burden of families' growing health care costs."

Panel established to protect consumers from healthcare hikes

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 06 Oct 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Some states have a lot of work to attend to in order to be in compliance with new healthcare regulations under the Affordable Care Act. Illinois Governor Pat Quinn has given the Illinois Health Care Reform Implementation Council the task of getting the state ready for the new laws.

One of the concerns on the minds of many people is the escalating costs associated with health insurance. Quinn says that the council will work to ensure consumers are not taken advantage of.

"The Illinois Health Care Reform Implementation Council will help ensure that we implement national health reform in a way that meets the needs of our state and protects Illinois' health care consumers from unfair increases in insurance premiums," says Quinn.

Another problem many consumers are expressing is difficulty getting affordable health insurance quotes. Under healthcare reform, each state will have its own health insurance exchange, where consumers can compare costs among different plans.

In 2014, most Americans will be required to have health insurance. Those who find they still cannot afford rates offered through an exchange may qualify for federal programs.

HHS Secretary highlights importance of preventative care in light of Breast Cancer Awareness Month

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 05 Oct 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Preventative care is crucial for detecting potentially life-threatening conditions. Many people may have delayed getting treatment or screenings because their family health insurance plan didn't cover the procedure. Under the Affordable Care Act, new health insurance policies will have to cover such screenings.

In light of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius is pointing out that mammograms will be one such screening tool covered by health insurers.

"If you or your family enrolled in a new health plan on or after September 23, 2010, that plan will be required to cover recommended preventive services without charging you a copayment or deductible," Sebelius said in a statement. "This includes annual screening mammograms for women starting at age 40."

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says more than 191,000 women were diagnosed with breast cancer in 2006. A woman's risk of getting breast cancer is higher for those that never have children, have a family history of the disease, and being overweight. The CDC recommends women control their weight and get exercise as well as learn their family history of breast cancer to help lower their risk.

Health insurance company fined by New York Insurance Department

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 04 Oct 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Health insurance companies are receiving a lot of scrutiny lately from the public and government officials alike. A major health insurance company has been fined $850,000 by the New York State Insurance Department after an investigation.

The health insurance provider has been found to be in violation of a number of regulations, including failure to issue benefit forms in some cases and not including proper information when a form was given.

New York State Insurance Superintendent James Wrynn says consumers need to have access to certain information.

"With medical bills so detailed and potentially confusing these days, consumers need an easy way to know how much they have to pay and why," Wrynn said. "That information should be clearly stated on the explanation of benefit form."

The health insurance company is taking the necessary actions to ensure it is in compliance with the state's regulations.

One of the reasons health insurance companies have received a great deal of attention as of late is because new laws will require most Americans to have health insurance. This could result in a number of people entering the individual health insurance market.

Government awards states money to set up health insurance markets

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 30 Sep 2010 02:00:00 -0500

One of the biggest changes to the country's healthcare system is the implementation of health insurance exchanges. Starting in 2014, consumers will have more options to consider for affordable individual health insurance quotes.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is awarding $49 million to states to help get the health insurance marketplace prepared. Members of Congress will also use the markets to fulfill their health insurance needs.

Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius says the exchanges will allow individuals to come together to have the same power as large companies.

"Today, too many individuals and small businesses are on their own in dealing with insurance companies," says Sebelius. "They pay higher costs than Americans who get their insurance through big companies or other large employers because they can't pool their costs or spread the risk."

The high costs associated with obtaining health insurance have forced some to go without coverage. In other cases, those who have kept their health insurance have watched a growing portion of their paycheck go towards the expense. The government hopes that the healthcare exchanges will allow people to get health insurance at more affordable rates.

NY insurance superintendent reminds insurers to provide reasons for higher rates

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Fri, 24 Sep 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Some insurers have been accused of trying to raise premiums and giving higher medical insurance quotes before all of the new provisions of healthcare reform set in. Earlier this year, for example, multiple health insurers tried to raise rates in California. Their requests were withdrawn after a mathematical error was detected in their proposal paperwork.

Recently, New York State Insurance Department Superintendent of Insurance James Wrynn sent a letter to health insurance companies saying they must provide detailed information for proposed rate hikes.

Wrynn says consumers need accurate information in order to make decisions.

"New York's new prior approval law requires insurers to send written notice of proposed rate increases, including the specific change requested, to insureds so they can understand the rate increase and ask questions or provide comments to the insurer or the insurance department," says Wrynn.

Furthermore, Wrynn mentions in his letter that some insurers have sent their customers misleading information to back their rate increases. He wrote that companies need to clearly and accurately explain components of higher rates.

Missouri fines phony health insurance companies

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 22 Sep 2010 02:00:00 -0500

A number of people get health insurance through their employer or from the government. Those in search of other affordable health insurance options may begin to look elsewhere. However, those people need to make sure they check the credentials of the company they plan to use.

More than 150 Missouri consumers were duped into purchasing what the insurance commission calls "bogus health insurance plans." The Missouri Insurance director John Huff has ordered eight companies to pay $1 million in fines to the state and stop operating.

"In a difficult economy and a time when health insurance is becoming more expensive, these companies took the money from Missouri consumers and ran," says Huff. "Consumers need to be on the lookout for fake health insurance, and should call our department to check these companies out."

The fraudulent companies conducted most of their business through junk faxes. When consumers tried to use what they thought was health insurance, they found out it was merely a discounted medical plan. Consumers who tried to cancel the plan were unable to get in contact with the alleged company.

Group voices opposition to healthcare reform

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 21 Sep 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Several provisions under the Affordable Care Act are set to take affect this Thursday. While many have lauded the government's efforts to expand healthcare coverage, opponents remain.

The Coalition to Protect Patients Rights spokesman Dr. Donald Palmissano says the healthcare bill will not result in people getting more affordable health insurance quotes. In fact, he asserts costs will increase.

"It's not surprising to those of us who paid attention to the legislative process that a new government analysis would show health care costs are going to be higher under the reform bill than they would have been without passage of the law," says Dr. Palmisano.

The group references data released by Aon Consulting showing reform will result in a 2 percent to 5 percent rate increase. Furthermore, the data from Aon anticipates more than a 10 percent increase in costs for many different types of healthcare plans.

Starting this week, young adults under the age of 26 will be able to remain on their parents' health insurance plans, and children with pre-existing conditions cannot be denied coverage.

Major health insurance company to give back $155.8 million to policy holders

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 20 Sep 2010 02:00:00 -0500

A major health insurance company and North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Wayne Goodwin have come to an agreement that will put back $155.8 million into the pockets of more than 215,000 individual health insurance policy holders.

The refunds are a result of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Some individual health insurance policy holders are getting money back from active life reserves, which set aside money at the beginning of a policy in order to pay for more expenses later on.

Goodwin says he is pleased that many North Carolina consumers will be getting some money back and he is "also glad that we were able to negotiate a lower-than-requested rate adjustment that will save $14.5 million in future premiums for policyholders."

The insurance company requested a 6.97 percent increase on policies, but they had to settle on the 5.37 percent approved by the state insurance agency.

North Carolinans aren't the only ones getting money returned from their health insurance company. Recently, some Colorado residents found they would be getting a premium credit after an investigation of a health insurance company's practices.

Patient-centered research to receive funds

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Fri, 17 Sep 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Some ethnic groups are more susceptible to certain health conditions than others. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recently announced they will be awarding more than $14 million to help research patient-centered outcomes, particularly in racial and ethnic minorities.

Diabetes is one condition that strikes minorities more than other segments of the population. The American Diabetes Association says while heart disease can affect anyone, the condition is more prevalent in African-American and Hispanic populations. People with those serious health conditions may receive higher health insurance quotes.

National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities director John Ruffin says the research is needed to understand how to best serve all portions of the population.

"Patient-centered outcomes research must become a critical part of our strategy as a nation to understand and eliminate health disparities," says Ruffin. "This joint initiative complements the work that we are currently doing and is a testament to the value of partnerships."

The funding will also aimed to help provide better information to patients so they can make more informed healthcare decisions.

Healthcare tax cuts to help working families

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 14 Sep 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Help is on the way for families who struggle to pay their health insurance premiums. Millions of middle-income Americans will qualify for tax credits in 2014, according to data released by consumer health organization Families USA.

Those who work for small employers stand to benefit the most from tax cuts, according to the data. More than 50 percent of those who will be eligible for the tax credit work for a company with less than 100 employees.

Furthermore, the data reveals that 66 percent of those who will be eligible for the tax credit will have an annual income of $44,100 for a family of four.

Families USA executive director Ron Pollack says the tax cuts will help families in need.

"This is one of the largest middle-income tax cuts in history, and it will enable many hard-working Americans to afford private health insurance premiums that continue to stretch family budgets," said Pollack.

Under healthcare reform, employers with less than 100 employees will be able to purchase coverage through an exchange. Policies purchased through an exchange may offer lower health insurance quotes since they have lower administrative fees.

Study: Consumers unaware healthcare provisions set to take effect

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 13 Sep 2010 02:00:00 -0500

A fair number of Americans are paying attention to the government's plan to reform the country's healthcare system. However, research reveals that misconceptions about new laws and provisions exist.

A survey by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners found that only 14 percent of respondents were aware that the first round of healthcare reform provisions take effect at the end of this month.

However, more than 70 percent were aware that insurers cannot deny cover to children with pre-existing conditions and must extend coverage to adult children up to age 26 on their parents' plan.

NAIC president and West Virginia insurance commissioner Jane Cline says it's important for consumers to understand what policies will soon take affect.

"The results show that while most consumers are well-attuned to provisions specifically affecting their children's healthcare, they do not grasp the overall reform framework," says Cline. "It's promising to see this, but we feel it necessary for consumers to fully understand the changes and get informed about what to expect."

The Affordable Care Act was signed into law by President Barack Obama in March 2010. Implementation of various provisions will take place in the upcoming years.

HHS calls out insurers for distributing false information

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Fri, 10 Sep 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Healthcare reform has created confusion for some people. It may not be the new laws, however, that are completely behind this lack of understanding. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius says health insurance companies are contributing to the dissemination of false facts.

Sebelius recently wrote a letter to America's Health Insurance Plans asking for their members to stop spreading false information. The secretary asserts that several insurers have said wrongfully blamed higher health insurance quotes and premium increases on the Affordable Care Act.

In her letter to AHIP, Sebelius wrote, "by making sure insurance covers people who are most at risk, there will be less uncompensated care, and, as a result, the amount of cost shifting to those who have coverage today will be reduced by up to $1 billion in 2013."

Under the Affordable Care Act, health insurers will be required to provide preventative services without additional costs and will be barred from denying coverage to those with pre-existing conditions. These are just a couple of provisions that insurers have historically not covered on their own.

HHS awards hospitals funding for electronic health records

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Fri, 10 Sep 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Hospitals in urban areas frequently garner a lot of attention as they are typically viewed as the main facilities that treat low-income patients. However, hospitals in rural areas need help too.

The. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius announced that $20 million in funds will be distributed to hospitals in 41 states. The funds are aimed to help rural hospitals transition to electronic health records.

"The benefits of health information technology can be especially important for patients and clinicians in small and rural health care facilities, yet these facilities face high hurdles as they look toward joining in the transition to electronic information," said Sebelius.

The government has been spearheading efforts for the healthcare industry to switch over to electronic health records. It's believed that patients will receive better care under this system through improved accuracy and clarity of records. However, doctors and other healthcare professionals have been slow to embrace the technology.

Hospitals don't have a lot of time to switch over to electronic health records. Fees will be imposed on hospitals that aren't in compliance by 2015.

Pennsylvania to receive funding for early retiree program

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 09 Sep 2010 02:00:00 -0500

The economic downturn has caused many employers to slash benefits and salaries in an attempt to stay financially afloat. Offering affordable health insurance to those who wish to retire early has become difficult for many companies to continue to offer. Budgets may be tightened further when new provisions under the Affordable Care Act kick in.

The Early Retiree Reinsurance Program provides financial help to employers so they can continue to cover retirees who are older than 55, but ineligible for Medicare.

Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell says the commonwealth is one of many employers that will receive financial assistance for early retiree healthcare expenses.

"Rising health care costs are a growing burden for employers and employees alike, and Pennsylvania state government is no exception," says Rendell. "This program will provide much-needed financial relief to the commonwealth, as well as more than 100 other employers throughout the state."

For those who still want to retiree early and can't get health insurance through their employer or Medicare, there are still options available. People can begin researching individual health insurance quotes and find a plan suitable for their needs.

Funding announced for patient-centered research

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 02:00:00 -0500

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recently announced it will be awarding $17 million to help improve healthcare in the country.

Three sets of grants will help fund patient-centered research. Most of the research being funded will focus on primary care and pediatrics, but some funds will also help aid research for the care and treatment of HIV/AIDS.

Health Resources and Services Administration Administrator Mary Wakefield says the funds will help fund programs that are normally neglected.

"These funds allow us to invest in robust systems and infrastructure to bring patient-centered research knowledge into everyday clinical decision-making for the diverse and vulnerable populations that HRSA serves, and that are often under-represented in this kind of research," says Wakefield.

Investing in healthcare research initiatives will help the country improve the healthcare system and better serve patients. Patient-centered outcomes research focuses on comparing treatments used amongst patients to determine which are most effective.

Funding for the research is part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, which was signed by President Barack Obama in February of last year.

HHS awards funds for early retiree health insurance

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 02:00:00 -0500

High costs for individual health insurance programs have made many people worry about how they can afford adequate coverage. This holds true especially for those who want to retire early, but are over the age of 55.

Fortunately, financial assistance will be available for early retirees who are not eligible for Medicare yet. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recently approved approximately 2,000 employers and unions to receive funds under the Early Retiree Reinsurance Program.

"In these tough economic times, it is difficult for employers to keep up with skyrocketing health care costs for employees and retirees," said HHS secretary Kathleen Sebelius. "Many Americans who retire before they are eligible for Medicare see their life savings disappear because of medical bills and exorbitant rates in the individual health insurance market."

Older Americans typically end up paying more for health insurance because they are considered a bigger liability to insure. Starting in 2014, health insurance exchanges are slated to be available for people to get individual health insurance quotes and coverage along with other valuable information.

Healthcare reform requires organizations to make changes

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 02:00:00 -0500

The clock is ticking for many in the health care industry. With health care reform, numerous changes have to be made across the industry to be in compliance with new laws and regulations.

Many people are familiar with the requirement for most Americans to obtain health insurance. Some people may opt for group health insurance coverage through their employer while others may end up going with an individual health insurance plan. How a person goes about getting health insurance will ultimately depend on their own personal situation.

Another change coming to the health care industry is the full switch to electronic health records by 2014. For some, making the switch to EHRs may be difficult.

Protus vice president of marketing Steve Adams suggests organizations switch over to internet faxing to help ease the transition. Adams notes that with traditional fax machines, "the paper documents they produce require extra steps in order to be entered into an EHR system. Switching from a fax machine or fax server to an internet fax service is quick and easy, and will save healthcare organizations a lot of work in both the short- and long-term."

States awarded funds to combat health insurance premium increases

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Health insurance companies have a lot to look out for these days. With the deadline for nationally mandatory health insurance still four years away, some companies may be trying to institute insurance hikes.

Under the Affordable Care Act, Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius announced grant money totaling $46 million will be awarded to 45 states and the District of Columbia to help combat health insurance premium hikes.

"As we continue to implement the new health insurance reform law, we will continue to work with states to ensure they have the tools they need to ensure the stability of the marketplace, keep costs low and provide consumers with increased transparency, choice and quality they need to make the best health care decisions for their businesses and families," said Office of Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight director Jay Angoff.

There are several ways states have proposed using the funding. One way some states want to use the funds is to help create programs that will require approval before any rate increases can take place. Other states have proposed to use the funds to help make the health insurance review process more consumer-focused.

Group files lawsuit against healthcare bill

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Fri, 13 Aug 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Healthcare reform has been viewed as a necessity by many people. Proponents for the reform say that health insurance shouldn't be considered a right, but something that is available to everyone. However, not everyone thinks that requiring health insurance is such a good idea.

The Arizona-based Goldwater Institute isn't so fond of healthcare reform. In fact, the watchdog organization is filing a lawsuit in an attempt to "protect health care freedom and preserve constitutional checks and balances."

Under healthcare reform, most Americans will be required to obtain health insurance. Small business owner and lead plaintiff Nick Coons says that he shouldn't have to get health insurance if he doesn't want to.

"The government is making me spend money on something that I don't want," says Coons. "Is a stranger who works for the government in some other part of the country really going to know what I need? I am the best qualified to make these decisions for myself."

People who fail to obtain health insurance by 2014 won't get away without a price. Those who neglect to get coverage stand to be fined by the Internal Revenue Service.

Group urges government to look into insurance hikes

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 12 Aug 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Consumer advocacy groups are calling for the government to look into premium hikes instituted by health insurance companies.

Consumer Watchdog and the Center for Media and Democracy assert that health insurance companies are jacking up their premiums before new legislation takes effect. A letter was sent to the Obama administration from the group asking them to look into the matter.

"Insurance companies appear to be making sure that when new federal rules for spending on health care kick in next year, they can keep their administrative bloat and profits intact," says Consumer Watchdog research director Judy Dugan.

Under healthcare reform, health insurance companies will be required to use a certain portion of premium money towards paying for care, rather than overhead costs. The watchdog group asserts that such a change is causing companies to raise prices.

Wendell Potter of the Center for Media and Democracy notes that recently Cigna reported spending 6.4 percent less on medical spending than they were before.

Earlier this year, a major health insurance company withdrew its proposal to significantly increase rates after it was determined that mathematical errors were made on the insurance agency's behalf.

Funding announced for vaccine and infection research

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 12 Aug 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Work is underway to see how humans respond to various infections and vaccines. The $100 million in funding from the National Institute of Allergy and Infections Diseases will help cover research expenses.

The studies being done at six Human Immune Phenotyping Centers on infections and vaccinations is different in that the research will be done on humans, rather than on animals.

West Nile is one of the viruses that will be researched. The Mayo Clinic says that most people don't become seriously ill with the virus. In most cases, mild symptoms include fever and headache.

Learning how different populations respond to various elements will greatly help doctors learn how to best treat patients. NIAID director of the Allergy, Immunology and Transplantation division Dr. Daniel Rotrosen says that the research will help broaden doctor's knowledge about how the human body works.

"The knowledge gained also will improve our understanding of the range of vaccine responses in particular subpopulations, including newborns, young children, the elderly, patients taking immunosuppressive medications and those with underlying diseases of the immune system, such as allergy and autoimmune diseases," Dr. Rotrosen said.

California health care workers protest new legislation

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 09 Aug 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Healthcare reform hasn't won over some doctors and health care professionals in San Diego. This past weekend, hundreds of health care workers converged on Harbor Island for "The National Doctor's Tea Party" to protest "ObamaCare," reports ABC affiliate KGTV.

Those who are against the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act believe that patients will ultimately suffer because of the law. Under healthcare reform, all Americans will be required to have health insurance begging in 2014. Protester Dr. Adam Dorin told KGTV that he believes "ObamaCare" will prevent him from providing care to his patients.

"Quality is going to go down; it's going to get more difficult," Dorin told the news station. "We're going to have more people in the system with quality of care probably not what it is today."

The Association of American Physicians and Surgeons, an organization that promotes the tea parties, say that requiring people to purchase health insurance is unconstitutional. The organization asserts that the new regulations will place them under tighter oversight by insurance companies and stifle innovation by doctors.

HHS gives $159 million to fund health care training

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Fri, 06 Aug 2010 02:00:00 -0500

As the American population continues to age, the need for qualified health care professionals continues to grow. However, there may not be enough workers to fill this need.

In order to help fund training for health care workers, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services will award more than $159 million in grant money to help train geriatric specialists and recruit minorities.

It's hoped that the money will enhance the quality of health and better serve people. The Health and Human Services secretary Kathleen Sebelius says that building a strong health care system is crucial to the country's well-being.

"We cannot build a healthier America if our country continues to face a growing health professions shortage," says Sebelius. "A well-trained, educated and diverse workforce is critical to meeting future health care demands, and to reforming the nation's health care system."

The U.S. Department of Labor says that the need for registered nurses is expected to grow more quickly than average for all occupations. The department predicts that the need for registered nurses alone will grow by 22 percent between 2008 and 2018.

Clinical Trials Act passed by Senate

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Fri, 06 Aug 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Enhancements in treating cystic fibrosis have extended the life expectancy of many who suffer from the condition. The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation says that as recently as the 1950's, people with the condition rarely lived long enough to attend school. Today, however, people can expect to live into their 40s.

Despite such great strides, more work needs to be done. The U.S. Senate recently passed the Improving Access to Clinical Trials Act, which will allow patients with rare diseases the chance to take part in clinical trials while still receiving public health care benefits.

"We are one step closer to breaking down a serious barrier to participation in clinical trials, which one day could deliver a cure for cystic fibrosis," said Cystic Fibrosis Foundation president and CEO Robert Beall. "This legislation represents an important opportunity for people with CF to take part in groundbreaking research that was previously out of their reach."

The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation asserts that many people with rare diseases don't participate in clinical trials because the compensation would make them ineligible for government medical programs.

Fortunately for people with serious medical conditions, new health care rules will bar health insurance companies from denying them coverage based on a pre-existing condition.

New program offers health care savings

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 05 Aug 2010 02:00:00 -0500

With the costs of health care continuing to rise, many employers are finding that their budgets are being squeezed. One way some companies are cutting costs is through offering programs aimed at making employees healthier.

One program employers can use is offered through Fidelity and RedBrick Health. The program, referred to as an integrated health engagement platform, has employees complete an interactive health assessment online. The software creates a "Personal HealthMap" which is a customized health profile with instructions on how to improve and maintain health.

"Employers are struggling to manage rising health care costs for their workers and increasing engagement in health management programs is one very effective way of doing that for both the employer and the employee," said workplace investing at Fidelity Investments president James MacDonald.

In addition to becoming healthier, the program allows employers to reward employees for their healthy lifestyle decisions with rewards like contributions to a company 401(k) program.

Research shows that preventative care measures can save money on the long-run. Employers stand to benefit from having healthier employees that will require fewer sick days and won't drive up the costs of group health insurance plans.

Number of adults joining parents' health insurance plans difficult to estimate

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 03 Aug 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Under health care reform, adult children are allowed to stay on their parent's health insurance plan until the age of 26. The Employee Benefit Research Institute says that previous estimates of between 680,000 to 2.1 million young adults taking advantage may be incorrect.

The EBRI notes that it's not easy to estimate how many parents will decide to enroll their adult children onto their health insurance plan. They note that some individuals within the 19-25 year old age bracket that currently get their health insurance through another medium, such as Medicaid, may switch to their parent's plan.

"It is critical that group plans and insurers understand the size and characteristics of the 19 to 25-year-old population that might be eligible for their parents' health coverage in order to determine the impact that this provision of PPACA may have on enrollment and costs of employment-based coverage," wrote EBRI health research and education program director Paul Fronstin.

Young adults are are more likely than any other age group to go without health insurance. Government data shows that 39 percent of adults between the ages of 19 and 29 lack health insurance.

HHS rules to require hospitals to post acquired infection data

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 02 Aug 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Most people go to the hospital with the expectation that they will leave in better health than when they came in. For some people, however, that doesn't end up being the case. Under some circumstances, patients acquire an infection while receiving care.

Effective next year, consumers will be able to compare how well a hospital is doing in preventing acquired infections.

Some say that providing access to such information is setting the grounds for making patient care safer.

"Patients shouldn't have to worry about getting sicker with an infection they catch in the hospital but every year nearly two million Americans do," said Consumers Union's Safe Patient Project director Lisa McGiffert.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates healthcare-associated infections cost hospitals between $28 and $45 billion dollars per year.

There are steps that hospitals can take to help lessen patients' chances of infection. The Safe Patient Project says that a leading Johns Hopkins doctor has devised a checklist that may reduce infections by as much as two-thirds.

Hospitals which take part in the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services "pay-for-reporting" program will be required to post their infection rate information online. Most hospitals participate in the program to receive higher Medicare payments.

Majority down on health care, poll finds

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 02 Aug 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Health care in the United States has been a major topic of discussion - and disagreement - for quite some time, and that doesn't appear to be changing any time soon.

Optimism towards health care reform seems to be dwindling. A telephone survey conducted by Rasmussen Reports found that 57 percent of respondents indicated that they think the new health care law will negatively impact the country. Slightly more think that repealing the health care law is a good idea.

Rasmussen says that is the highest percentage on record since they started tracking the public's sentiment late in March.

Notably, Republicans and unaffiliated voters tend to more strongly feel that the health care bill is bad for the country. Democrats, on the other hand, tend to feel that the new law will be beneficial and support it.

The health care law has numerous provisions aimed at making health care more accessible to all citizens. Some of the ways the government plans on doing this are expanding Medicare and prohibiting health insurance companies from denying people coverage because of a pre-existing condition.

Healthcare reform has many confused, poll finds

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 29 Jul 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Confusion about healthcare reform still abounds for many, a Health Day/Harris Poll found.

Over 60 percent of the 2,100 polled were unaware that the new healthcare laws will increase the number of people who qualify for Medicaid. Just under three-quarters of those polled didn't know that there will be a new tax placed on medical devices.

Some believe that the widespread misunderstanding of healthcare reform stems from the fact that the system is confusing to begin with.

"The problem for the (Obama) administration is healthcare reform is fiendishly complicated because the healthcare system is fiendishly complicated, and it is not politically feasible to tear up the system and build it again," says Harris Poll chairman Humphrey Taylor. "Instead you have to build on the system that you have. When you try to build on a fiendishly complicated system, you have fiendishly complicated reforms."

On a positive note, nearly 60 percent reported knowing that private insurance companies will no longer be able to deny them coverage because of a pre-existing condition.

Currently, people with a pre-existing illness can get coverage through either a state or government-sponsored program if they've been uninsured for at least six months until 2014.

Patients empowered to appeal health insurance decisions

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 02:00:00 -0500

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.

Funds available to support home visiting programs for at-risk families

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 22 Jul 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Strong parenting skills aren't something everyone naturally has. Becoming a parent at a young age can also add to the stresses of paying everyday expenses like food and housing.

Research has shown that programs where nurses and social workers visit at risk-families helps build stronger parenting skills and reduce strain on the medical system.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recently announced that $88 million in grants under the Affordable Care Act will be awarded to states to help fund such programs.

"These investments will help states to create and support evidence-based home visiting programs that improve the wellbeing of children and families," says Health Resources and Services Administration administrator Mary Wakefield. "States will be using these grants to design programs that best serve their residents, providing important help to at-risk families, while gathering more detailed information on which approaches work best to put young children on the path to a healthy life at an early age."

The Center for American Progress says that poverty-stricken women are more likely to have an array of health conditions like diabetes and depression. Programs where in-home assistance is offered may help some families stop the poverty cycle and reliance on the healthcare system.

Healthcare summit aims to stop fraud

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Fri, 16 Jul 2010 02:00:00 -0500

People who try to cheat the healthcare system end up costing taxpayers money every year. That is why leaders are meeting to discuss methods to combat the problem.

U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius and U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder started a series of summits in Florida this month.

"Thanks to new tools contained in the Affordable Care Act, we are more prepared than ever to safeguard taxpayer dollars and ensure that the health care coverage of our seniors, families and children is secure," says Sebelius.

During the summit, panel discussions for health care providers and law enforcement officials were held. Seniors could also take part in sessions to become educated on how to detect and report Medicare fraud. Consumers should be suspicious of suppliers who offer free equipment or services in exchange for a Medicare number, for example.

Healthcare fraud results in wasted taxpayer money and people paying more for health insurance. The government says that more than $2.5 billion was put back into the Medicare Trust Fund last year as a result of their anti-fraud efforts.

Government calls for preventive screening coverage

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 15 Jul 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Many Americans don't take the necessary steps to take care of their health, including getting appropriate preventative screenings.

Cost may be one reason why too many go without this care, but new government rules aim to make it easier for people to gain access to services they need.

Effective for new plans commencing on or after September 23 of this year, health insurance companies will be required to cover costs associated with preventative services that have been proven to have health benefits.

Receiving regular screenings can help patients delay and even avoid the onset of many costly conditions.

"Getting access to early care and screenings will go a long way in preventing chronic illnesses like diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure," says First Lady Michelle Obama.

The American Diabetes Association says that 7.8 percent of people in the country had diabetes in 2007. If people are aware that they are at a high risk of developing the disease, patients can take appropriate actions to get their health in order. This knowledge could greatly reduce health care and health insurance costs.

Latino organization applauds Affordable Care Act

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 15 Jul 2010 02:00:00 -0500

The Latino community is one of many that will greatly benefit from the Affordable Care Act.

Health insurance will be extended to nine million Latinos under health care reform, says the League of United Latin American Citizens.

LULAC says that they aim to ensure that that insurance companies don't deny people health coverage when they get sick, Medicare recipients can pay for their prescriptions and that all people have access to preventative care.

"Health care reform brings us closer to establishing health care as a civil right," says LULAC president Rosa Rosales. "With one in three Latinos lacking health insurance coverage, Hispanic families have suffered more than any other ethnic group due to lack of coverage and inadequate care."

In addition to the Latino community, people from a range of backgrounds and income levels stand to gain from the Affordable Care Act.

Provisions under the Act aim to help everyone from seniors to low-income children get affordable access to quality health care. Expanded Medicare coverage and health insurance markets along with other resources are being created to bring coverage to all citizens.

Definition of meaningful use of electronic health records firmed up

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 02:00:00 -0500

There has been much discussion over the use of electronic health records, and now the government has devised a final set of rules to define "meaningful use," to which hospitals will have to adhere.

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius this month announced the final rules. Some highlights of the rule include enhanced flexibility in regards to allowing hospitals to meet objectives of meaningful EHR use.

It is hoped that by expanding use of EHRs, patients and health care providers will ultimately find health care costs go down while increasing safety.

"Health care is finally making the technology advances that other sectors of our economy began to undertake years ago," says health information technology national coordinator Dr. David Blumenthal. "Adoption and meaningful use of EHRs will help providers deliver better and more effective care, and the benefits for patients and providers alike will grow rapidly over time."

One of the main reasons hospitals have been slow to embrace EHRs is cost. While the initial investment associated with going electronic may seem high, it could potentially save hospitals money.

Government creates tougher privacy laws

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 13 Jul 2010 02:00:00 -0500

At a time where there is a big push towards moving medical records and other related documents to an electronic system, some people have become increasingly concerned about privacy.

To help ameliorate concerns and reduce risks, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has created more rules, which will include stronger security when third parties handle health data.

The new rule is intended to broaden a person's right to obtain their own information and bar the sale of patient information without consent.

"The benefits of health IT can only be fully realized if patients and providers are confident that electronic health information is kept private and secure at all times," said HSS Office for Civil Rights director Georgina Verdugo. "This proposed rule strengthens the privacy and security of health information, and is an integral piece of the administration's efforts to broaden the use of health information technology in health care today."

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 established restrictions on who can access a person's medical records to help keep such information private and confidential. Most health care providers are required by law to follow the rules.

Wellness programs awarded grant money

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 08 Jul 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Health and wellness organizations from around the country are being awarded money by the government to help provide guidance and to sustain disease prevention efforts.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is giving away $1 million to 10 organizations that have a national presence and aim to reduce tobacco use and obesity.

A large number of deaths result from conditions that could have been mitigated through proper diet and exercise. It is hoped that the selected programs will help people live healthier lives.

"In the United States, seven of 10 deaths result from chronic disease, with tobacco, obesity, poor nutrition and lack of physical activity as the key risk factors for disease," said U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Assistant Secretary for Health Howard Koh. "We are proud to partner with these national organizations that have proven their expertise and will advance progress in helping Americans achieve and enjoy better health."

The National Recreation and Park Association is one of the 10 organizations receiving a government grant. The NRPA provides a variety of services, including summer feeding programs for children who get free or reduced-cost lunch during the school year.

Conversations surrounding healthcare expenses rise

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 07 Jul 2010 02:00:00 -0500

People are becoming more concerned about health care costs associated with the Patient Protection and Affordable Car Act, according to the Healthcare Narrative Tracker.

The research reported by OpenConnect consists of an analysis of internet, print and electronic media sources. Information derived from conversations on social media outlets were also taken into consideration.

Discussions about escalating expenses outnumbered those concerned with keeping expenses down by 40 percent.

The Healthcare Narrative Tracker shows that people are knowledgeable and fearful about the costs healthcare reform will bring.

"Policies need to be evaluated by the effect they will have on the cost incurred with their implementation," says OpenConnect CEO Edward Peters. "The economics of healthcare reform need to be based on changes that help pay for themselves rather than make the problem worse."

Costs for health-related care has been rapidly increasing. The U.S. has some of the highest healthcare costs out of all the industrialized countries. The Kaiser Family Foundation says that over $2.3 trillion was spent on healthcare expenses in 2008, over three times the amount spent in 1990.

Government to award $25 million in aid to young parents

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 06 Jul 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Teens and women who are pregnant or already have a family will now have additional support through the Pregnancy Assistance Fund.

Under the Affordable Care Act, the Pregnancy Assistance Fund will offer 25 grants worth $500,000 to $2 million a year to states who apply for the assistance. Funds totaling $25 million will be available each year.

States can use the funds to help provide services that will assist young parents earn high school or collegiate degrees and improve access to health and child care programs.

"The opportunity created by the Affordable Care Act will provide states and tribes needed assistance to support vulnerable teens and women who are pregnant and parenting," said U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius. "The Pregnancy Assistance Fund provides states the opportunity to link these families to health, education, child care, and other supports that can help brighten the futures of parents and their children."

The teen birth rate is on the rise, making the need to fund programs for young parents crucial. The Centers for Disease Control report that there was a 3 percent increase in the birth rate for teenagers 15 to 19 years old in 2006.

Funds awarded to healthcare students

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Fri, 02 Jul 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Hundreds of healthcare students will become recipients of funds from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Award funds totaling $96 million will help fund scholarships and grants for students demonstrating need and coming from disadvantaged backgrounds.

A portion of the funds are from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, which is designed to strengthen the health care system.

"The health professions workforce in the United States does not reflect the population it serves," said HHS secretary Kathleen Sebelius. "These funds will help support the education of disadvantaged students who are more likely to go on to serve in underserved areas, and will expand the training of nurse faculty in exchange for their service."

Under health care reform, more Americans will be required to have health insurance. Some people are concerned that the growing number of people with coverage will create longer waits for doctor visits and other care services unless more health professionals are hired.

The Association of American Medical Colleges says that the country could be facing a major shortage of doctors in the near future. To help alleviate the potential shortage of medical staff, the AAMC is supporting a 30 percent increase in enrollment in medical schools.

Patient advocate group pushes for legislative action

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 30 Jun 2010 02:00:00 -0500

A group of patient advocates with representatives from all 50 states are meeting in Washington, D.C. to discuss access and care needs of those with life-threatening conditions.

The Patient Advocate Foundation is seeking legislative action to ensure patients have access to the care they need.

PAE chief executive officer Nancy Davenport-Ennis says that that last year, two-thirds of the patients that contacted the foundation for assistance were struggling financially because of health care expenses. Eighty percent of those patients reported struggling even though they had health insurance.

"We are committed to creating programs and services that ensure no patient is turned away and that all people receive the quality care they need and deserve," says Davenport-Ennis. "We will continue working with Congressional leaders to ensure that patients across the nation are protected from health care discrimination and the many forms that it takes."

Health care costs can run so high that they deplete whole savings accounts. Earlier this month, the American Cancer Society released results from a poll that revealed a third of cancer victims had difficulty paying for basic needs like food and housing.

Many hospitals lag behind in meaningful use of electronic records

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 29 Jun 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Despite having funds to transition to computerized medical records, many hospitals say they don't believe they will be able to "meaningfully use" them by the government deadline of 2015, according to a PricewaterhouseCoopers survey.

Hospital chief information officers also said that they are uncertain of their ability to meet later deadlines as well, according to the survey. Other requirements include the ability to share information electronically with insurers and patients.

Most hospitals are lagging behind because they lack properly trained staff. PricewaterhouseCoopers says the government estimates a shortage of 50,000 qualified health IT workers.

Getting everyone on board with EHRs will help create meaningful use, says PricewaterhouseCoopers.

"Nowhere would the meaningful use of EHRs be more valuable than in a hospital emergency department, where it could mean life or death for a patient," PricewaterhouseCoopers leader of the health information practice Daniel Garrett said. "Emergency department physicians aren't eligible for stimulus incentives but their meaningful use of EHRs is crucial to the hospital and its patients."

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services says that EHRs are an important tool to help avoid medical errors and increase medical record accuracy.

Early retirees can now apply for government health insurance coverage

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 29 Jun 2010 02:00:00 -0500

A $5 billion program designed to provide health insurance for early retirees is now accepting applications.

The Early Retiree Insurance program will help provide coverage to people who are retired, but don't qualify for Medicare coverage yet.

When employees retire before 65, they can obtain health insurance coverage from their employer until they are old enough for Medicare.

With the program, employers will be eligible to receive funds that cover up to 80 percent of medical claim fees costing between $15,000 and $90,000. The coverage will be extended to retirees who are at least 55 years old as well as their spouses and dependents.

"The Affordable Care Act not only helps consumers cut their health care costs and have more access to quality care, it also is designed to help employers afford coverage," says U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius. "The Early Retiree Reinsurance Program will help employers continue to provide much-needed health insurance to their retirees."

Medicare provides coverage for hospital visits and doctor care to the elderly and people with certain medical conditions.

Health insurance rate hike requests withdrawn after errors found

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Fri, 25 Jun 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Two major California health insurance companies have withdrawn requests to raise their premiums, according to state Insurance Commissioner Steve Poizner.

Substantial math errors were found in the paperwork submitted by both insurance companies, says Poizner. The commissioner says he is optimistic that in the future, health insurance companies will be more diligent in checking their calculations before applying for rate increase approval.

Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius says that actions like those taken in California are crucial to keeping the health insurance market competitive.

"I applaud California for its decision to shine more light on skyrocketing insurance rates and demand more accountability after uncovering that a second insurer used faulty math to try to justify exorbitant health insurance premium increases," Sebelius said in a release. "Finally, the power is shifting back to consumers thanks to the strong actions on the part of the states, and new protections and accountability under the Affordable Care Act."

The Affordable Care Act will require Americans to have health insurance coverage. Some have expressed concerns that insurers will not be held accountable for rate hikes and trap consumers into paying more.

Women back in control, says Sebelius

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 24 Jun 2010 02:00:00 -0500

There are several provisions in the Affordable Care Act that will make the health care industry fairer towards women. Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius highlighted some key health care changes while speaking to the National Partnership for Women and Families.

Under the Act, health insurance companies will be prohibited from dropping women from a plan due to sickness. Placing lifetime and annual limits in all new insurance plans will also be barred.

To help keep costs down for women, a cap will be imposed on how much health insurance companies can require women to contribute towards their care.

"With the Affordable Care Act, we're putting women back in control," says Sebelius. "When you look at the full range of women's health needs and the full range of reforms in this new law, the Affordable Care Act is the best women's health bill since Medicare."

Health care reform won't just help women obtain the coverage they need. Young adults are another group that is undeserved by the health care system. Another provision allows single adult children under the age of 26 to remain on their parent's health insurance plan.

Patients report little change after reform

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 24 Jun 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Since health care reform took place in Massachusetts, patients report little change in several aspects of their care, according to Massachusetts Health Quality Partners.

In a few key areas, patients didn't mark a noticiable difference in the care they are receiving now compared to a few years ago.

Both this year and in 2007, 30 percent of patients reported that they didn't always receive follow-ups on test results, says MHQP. Also unchanged is the number of adults, 40 percent, who reported that their primary care physician wasn't knowledgeable about the care they received from a specialist.

Improvements in the doctor-patient relationship were noted from 2007, however, as the number of patients who said their doctors were insufficiently familiar with their medical history dipped to 30 percent.

"These results reflect the ongoing challenges primary care physicians face working within the current fragmented health care system," said president of the Massachusetts Medical Society Alice Coombs. "The good news is that so many physician practices in Massachusetts are performing very well in a less-than-ideal health care system and meeting their patients' expectations for excellent, patient-centered care."

Massachusetts implemented health care reform a few years ago and has served as a barometer of the possible effects of more widespread overhauls.

Low-income workers wait until 2014 for health care coverage

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Health care reform in Massachusetts extended coverage to many people who wouldn't otherwise be able to afford it, but some people will continue to go without until 2014, when the federal law kicks in.

Advocates are saying that it is unfair to force the uninsured low-income workers to wait four more years for health insurance, reports the Globe. The health insurance law in Massachusetts brought coverage to many low-income people, but left a gap of people with full-time jobs who cannot afford coverage through work and do not qualify for state programs.

The federal health care reform will help fill the gap found in Massachusetts.

"The federal law learned from our experience, both good and bad, and saw this as a deficiency in health reform," research director for the consumer group Health Care for All Brian Rosman told the Globe. "It's not that they just copied what worked here. They also saw things that maybe didn't work and fixed it."

State health insurance is costly. A proposed budget of $869 million was given last year, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation, marking an increase of $400 million from the previous year.

Health care to trouble Michigan even with reform

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Major health care challenges plague Michigan even as reform is on the way, a report by the Center for Healthcare Research and Transformation found.

Almost 40 percent of Michigan residents either lack health insurance or rely on the state for assistance, according to the CHRT study. Coverage through employers has also declined faster than the national average in the state.

Stress on the state budget for health care is expected to rise. Over a million people are projected to obtain coverage through state-run programs in 2014, the study found. Hospitals have been increasingly left uncompensated for the care they provide.

These findings represent upcoming challenges for the state.

"Michigan's safety net system is overloaded and shows no signs of abating in the near term even with health care reform," says CHRT director Marianne Udow-Phillips. "Michigan has far fewer federally funded health care centers than other states. The enormous strain on the state's health care system is growing as more people lose employer-based coverage."

Health care costs in the U.S. are some of the steepest out of all the industrialized countries, says the Kaiser Family Foundation, growing faster than inflation and income levels.

Coalition targets environmental law

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Taking precautionary measures against harmful substances can keep Americans safe and affordable health insurance quotes within reach.

The oil spill in the Gulf Coast, however, has served as a reminder of the toxic chemicals companies aim to control. This has motivated the Safer Chemicals, Healthy Families coalition to launch the I Am Not a Guinea Pig campaign, according to a recent release.

The target of the campaign is the Toxic Substances Control Act, a 34-year-old law aimed at giving the Environmental Protection Agency the power to control dangerous chemicals. The law is weak, according to the release, and should be replaced with the Safe Chemicals Act of 2010. This bill was proposed by U.S. Senator Lautenberg and strengthens many of the provisions in the former law.

"Chemicals should meet a standard of safety for all people, and especially vulnerable populations like children and pregnant women," Andy Igrejas, national campaign director for Safer Chemicals, Healthy Families, said. "That can only happen when Congress hears from fed-up Americans tired of being treated like Guinea pigs."

Members of the Safer Chemicals, Healthy Families coalition include Teens Turning Green, Health Care Without Harm, Learning Disabilities Association of America and more. Resources available on www.saferchemicals.org are catered toward teen, children and health professionals.

Massachusetts may provide insight into federal health plan effectiveness

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Looking at the successes and shortfalls of the health care system in Massachusetts may shed light on what will take place nationwide, says CNN Money. The main components of the nationwide plan mirror those that have been implemented in Massachusetts.

Health care costs in the Bay State were the highest in the country when reform took place in 2006 and expenses have not decreased, according to CNN Money.

Premiums in Massachusetts increased dramatically as older and less healthy people joined plans. CNN Money says that even with a fine, a large number of young adults opt to be uninsured because the premiums are more costly.

There is also concern that employers will begin to drop health insurance as a benefit, forcing employees to turn to government-run programs for assistance, says CNN Money. An large increase would hurt already expensive and financially strapped government programs like Medicare.

Balancing health care for all Americans against expenses is something that the government is trying to get a grasp on. Health care reform is something that is seen as a necessity by many in the country, but how effective it will be is unclear.

Reform will save money, Maine says

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Amidst all the concerns about how much health care is going to cost down the road, Maine is predicting it will save money under the reform.

A state analysis looking at the impact of the federal health care law reveals that the state could save $31.8 million in 2014, reports the Bangor Daily News.

The potential savings would come after an initial expense to the state.

"This is a far-reaching projection," said Department of Health and Human Services commissioner Brenda Harvey. "There are also some policy decisions that will need to be made that will impact these estimates."

The state stands to save money by switching parents with incomes in excess of 133 percent of the federal poverty level from Medicare to a health insurance exchange. Savings will also be made through the continuation of the Children's Health Insurance Program.

The health insurance exchange is intended to create a competitive market in the insurance industry through offering a variety of plans and providing coverage to more people. Consumers will also receive more help to understand the options available to them.

Insurance rule aims at keeping coverage affordable

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 15 Jun 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Recent healthcare provisions unveiled by the Obama administration could ensure that group health insurance plans become - and remain - affordable.

Businesses that reduce benefits, make modest increases to co-payments or significantly amp up premiums will lose their "grandfather" status, according to a recent report by Kaiser Health News. When this happens, employers will be forced to foot new, more expensive insurance rules.

These provisions are aimed at enabling individuals to benefit from recent health reform while maintaining their current coverage. Specific changes that could cost a company its grandfather status include cutting coverage for employees with AIDS or diabetes, decreasing the portion of premiums paid by employers by more than 5 percentage points or increase co-payments by $5 or more, according to the report.

"This seems reasonable, balancing the need for consumer protections with the need to maintain stability in the health insurance marketplace during this transition period leading up to 2014," DeAn Friedholm, director of health reform for Consumers Union, was quoted as saying.

Other healthcare reforms prohibit insurers from dropping or charging increased insurance quotes to consumers with pre-existing health conditions.

$25 million to help prevent medical mistakes

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 14 Jun 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Funds will be available to help create projects that will make a marked difference in safety and care for patients, announced the Department of Health and Human Services' Agency for Health Care Research and Quality.

Funds totaling $25 million will be divided into three-year grants worth up to $3 million and one-year grants worth $300,000 for implementation, evaluating patient safety, and medical liability reform.

The goal of the program is to provide funding for programs that will help cut back on the number of preventable patient injuries and facilitate better communication between doctors and patients.

"This new research is the largest government investment connecting medical liability to quality and aims to improve the overall quality of health care," said Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius.

President Barack Obama announced the initiative to combat medical malpractice in September of last year. According to the government, there have been numerous reports of problems with the system.

The Health and Human Services department cites a report by the Institute of Medicine that states between 44,000 and 98,000 people die a year from medical mistakes.

Three health insurers placed on administrative oversight in MA

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Fri, 11 Jun 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Massachusetts state officials have their eyes set on three health insurance companies, reports the Boston Globe.

Letters were sent to three major health insurance companies as concerns over their financial well-being arose, according to the Globe. Negotiations are still on the table with two of the companies, while one has already agreed to administrative oversight.

Officials told the Globe that it's not uncommon for there to be administrative oversight of two insurers per year and that such monitoring typically ends in less than 12 months. One of the insurers in question edured a state denial for premium hikes earlier this year.

The companies need to supply the state with information regarding their finances, including income statements, says the Globe.

President of the Massachusetts Association of Health Plans Lora Pellegrini told the Globe that the imposed oversight is the result of rate caps.

"If the Governor keeps the rate caps in place, I can guarantee you all of the plans could have serious financial issues," says Pellegrini in the Globe report.

The Bay State isn't the only one where health insurers are facing more intense scrutiny. Earlier this month, both Pennsylvania and New York officials publicly clamped down on health insurance companies.

Reinsurance funds won't last long, study finds

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Fri, 11 Jun 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Reinsurance funds used to help employers extend health insurance benefits to early retirees are expected to run out within two years, a report by the Employee Benefit Research Institute found.

Part of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, the reinsurance program is supposed to help former employees cover their medical expenses. The EBRI says that the funds are designed to help provide coverage for those who are over 55 and not eligible for Medicare.

"This article finds that if the subsidy were drawn down for all early retirees and their dependents, $2.5 billion of the $5 billion available would be exhausted in the first year of the program," says EBRI. "The $5 billion would last no more than two years and would not be available in 2012 or 2013."

The government program is designed to reimburse former employees for 80 percent of benefit costs for claims over $15,000. The program became effective at the beginning of this month and it is scheduled to run until the funds are no longer available, but no later than January 1, 2014.

Reform raises concern, poll finds

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 10 Jun 2010 02:00:00 -0500

People who feel they have enough health insurance are satisfied with their plan, but many are concerned that health care reform may change that, a poll conducted by Deloitte found.

Just over 60 percent of respondents with employer-sponsored health insurance are concerned that their benefits won't be as extensive for dependents under health care reform, the poll revealed. Almost a third believe that their employer may stop offering health insurance.

"Anxiety about current and future health insurance coverage will continue to be a major issue for American consumers as health care reform is implemented nationally," says executive director of the Deloitte Center for Health Solutions Paul Keckley. "Our research shows that consumers who are covered through Medicare are more highly satisfied with their health care services than those in employer-sponsored plans."

Survey respondents also revealed that they were concerned that there will be an increase in taxes and premiums because of health care reform.

Medical costs have been escalating over the years. More than $2.3 trillion was spent on health care in 2008, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation. Mitigating costs is one of the ultimate goals of the reform.

NY stops health insurance rate hikes without approval

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 10 Jun 2010 02:00:00 -0500

New York is taking a stand against health insurance premium increases and will now require insurers to obtain approval before increases can go into effect, says The Buffalo News.

The state did have a system in place 10 years ago that was supposed to prevent unreasonable premium increases, but this ended in 1996, reports the Buffalo News.

The new bill will help keep insurance affordable and protect consumers, according to proponents of the plan.

"New York has taken a major step toward more affordable health coverage," said legislative counsel for New Yorkers for Accessible Health Coverage Mark Scherzer. "The new law will provide welcome help to consumers who have endured years of unreasonable rate increases."

The law will be in effect starting October 1. The Buffalo News says that the state and consumers will be able to comment on rate applications.

Health insurance price hikes are something the government is paying close attention to. Earlier this month, Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius announced a government grant program designed to help states create plans to strengthen oversight of the health care system. The grant will provide $250 million in aid over the next five years.

Health insurance companies under fire in PA

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 09 Jun 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Some of Pennsylvania's largest health insurance companies are under investigation for their high rate increases, according to Governor Edward Rendell.

In particular, the Insurance Department is looking into the correlation between the rate hikes and health profiling.

In light of the number of new customers health insurance agencies will get due to health care reform, Rendell said that he finds the price increases disheartening.

"Federal health reform brings many opportunities for health insurance companies, starting with 32 million new customers," said Rendell. "So I am disappointed to see these companies hiking premiums for those most in need of health care, especially when they know that all discrimination against sick people will be prohibited in 2014 under the federal reform law."

Rendell says that the rate hikes are tied to health insurance companies trying to get the most money they can before federal reform is in place.

Health insurance price hikes aren't just a problem in Pennsylvania. Earlier this week, the government announced that they will be awarding $250 million in grant money to states throughout the next five years to help create programs to oversee health insurers.

Health care law helps pregnant women and new mothers

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 09 Jun 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Pregnant women and new mothers will gain access to a range of services under health care reform, reports Kaiser Health News.

Under health care reform, the requirements to qualify for Medicaid will be eased. Currently many pregnant women who qualify for Medicaid lose health insurance coverage once they give birth, KHN reports.

Some health insurance agencies are allowed to consider pregnancy a pre-existing condition, resulting in increased fees or refusal to cover, says KHN. In 2014, that will no longer be the case. Health insurance companies will have to provide coverage for maternity and childbirth services.

Over the next five years, $1.5 billion dollars will be used to expand home-visiting program, says KHN. Such programs provide funding for nurses to visit teenagers and young mothers. The nurses help prepare and teach the new mothers how to care for their babies.

Such programs can have a long-term impact on mothers and their children.

"Studies show that participating mothers actually spend less time on welfare and food stamps," reports USA Today. "Studies also show that home visiting saves up to $5.70 for every dollar invested."

Ohio law allows children up to age 28 to stay on parents' health insurance

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 09 Jun 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Adult children in Ohio can stay on their parents' health insurance plans up to age 28 starting July 1.

Ohio will join the ranks of New York, Florida, Nebraska and New Jersey as states where adult children older than 26 can stay on their parents plan, reports Reuters. However, married children will not be eligible.

Young adults are more likely than any other age group to lack health insurance, according to Reuters. This because young adults are more likely to hold entry-level jobs that don't offer health insurance.

The new law only impacts companies where employees have to purchase health insurance, says Reuters. Self-insured companies only have to offer coverage until age 26, although supporters of the law are urging companies to comply even though they don't have to.

It's estimated that 20,000 will be eligible for coverage under the law, says Reuters.

Nationwide, adults up to age 26 will be eligible to remain on their parents' policies if they can't get insurance on their own under the Affordable Care Act. Starting in 2014, they can stay on their parents' plan even if they can get it through their own employer.

Grant to help states fund health insurance review programs

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Government aid totaling $51 million will be available to states to help devise a process to review health insurance premium requests.

Over the next five years, $250 million will be available to states in Health Insurance Premium Review Grants through the Affordable Care Act.

States must submit a plan outlining how the funds would help them devise a plan to review health insurance premium requests. Funds will be available to winning states this year after rate review regulations take in effect.

"These new grants will help states protect consumers and small employers by holding insurers accountable for unreasonable insurance rate increases that have made coverage unaffordable for many American families, says U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius. "By strengthening oversight of insurance premiums, these grants will help put affordable coverage back within the reach for Americans who have been hit hard by skyrocketing costs."

There are numerous provisions under the Affordable Care Act that are designed to make health care more accessible to Americans. The benefits of health care reform will vary for each individual state.

Uncertainty about health care reform persists

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Fri, 04 Jun 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Republicans and Democrats remain divided over health care reform, but both sides are willing to give the plan a try and make revisions as necessary, reports the Associated Press.

Health care reform was designed to made affordable health care available to all Americans. To do that, the government is changing the qualification requirements for Medicaid so more people will qualify for the plan.

The law also seeks to make the health insurance market more competitive and will bar insurers from rejecting consumers based on previously-existing medical conditions.

New rules will also allow adult children to remain on their parents' insurance plans until age 26.

Despite the positive impact reform is suppose to have, surveys on Americans feelings' towards health care reform reveals their uncertainty.

"Americans' nuanced outlook is reflected in some recent polls, reports the Associated Press. "For example, an NBC News/Wall Street Journal survey found the public tilting against the law 44-38, with 36 percent saying the quality of their health care would get worse, and only 17 percent believing it would improve."

Some provisions of health care reform have already been enacted while others are not set to take effect until 2014.

Pharmacists blame PBMs for escalating costs

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Fri, 28 May 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Congress needs to clamp down on the pharmacy benefit management industry, says the Association of Community Pharmacists Congressional Network.

According to the ACPCN, increased prescription costs are a result of PBMs' corrupt behavior. The ACPCN says that they have been working with pharmacies to discover underpayments from insurers and inappropriate use of patient information.

The ACPCN wants Congress to introduce the "pharmacy bill," to help get costs under control. More than $250 billion could be saved over 10 years with the bill in place, according to the ACPCN. The bill would promote the use of local pharmacies and generic drugs.

"Members of Congress need to address the secret PBM practices that pharmacies in their districts have uncovered - PBM corporations are underpaying local pharmacies, misusing confidential patient information, and hiding money owed to taxpayers," stated ACPCN vice president for government affairs Mike James. "The time for comprehensive congressional action is overdue."

The current administration has made it clear that they are committed to reducing consumer costs for health care-related expenses. The government hopes to do this through several provisions under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

Health insurance mergers to be watched

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 25 May 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Monopolies in the health insurance industry won't be tolerated by the Obama administration.

In an attempt to keep competition for health insurance strong, a clear message has been sent out by the government that mergers will be under tight watch.

Currently in several states, just a couple of providers insure most people, according to the Associated Press. The large insurance providers say that they are more efficient and can pass savings along to consumers.

On the opposing side, when there is little competition, there isn't much incentive for companies to lower fees or provide quality service.

"If we determine that our initial concerns were well-founded, we will not hesitate to block the merger or to require the settlement concessions necessary to protect consumers," said Justice Department antitrust chief Christine Varney.

Varney stated that without a competitive health insurance climate, Obama's health care law cannot be effective.

In addition to prohibiting monopolies from forming, the government has created several rules to help lower health care costs. According to the government, insurance companies will be required to return money to consumers if they spend less than 75 percent on your care.

Benefits to continue for unemployed

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 25 May 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Expanded benefits for the long-term unemployed will be available until the end of the year, thanks to an agreement reached by lawmakers.

Subsidies will also continue to be offered to laid-off workers who purchase health insurance through COBRA, according to the Associated Press. The number of people taking advantage of COBRA benefits doubled when the subsidy was enacted, a study by Hewitt Associates found. According to Hewitt, 14 million workers were eligible for COBRA benefits last year.

Almost 50 tax cuts that expired in January will also be in effect for another year under the agreement.

Health care providers will also benefit from the bill. The Associated Press reports that lawmakers have come to terms on a provision that will prevent cuts in Medicare payments to doctors until 2014.

Without this agreement in place, companies could not determine their tax payments.

"Provisions in this legislation will help companies and state and local governments spur job growth while also providing critical tax relief and economic assistance to American families who were hit hard by the recession," said chairman of the tax-writing House Ways and Means Committee Representative Sander Levin.

In April, there were 15.3 million people unemployed, according to government data.

Employers to be fined for not offering affordable health plans

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 24 May 2010 02:00:00 -0500

A third of employers may be subject to fines for not offering affordable health insurance plans to full-time employees, according to a study of almost 3,000 employers conducted by Mercer.

Under the Affordable Health Care Act, employers must offer full-time employees insurance that is less than 9.5 percent of their household income or pay a penalty. Starting in 2014, an employer will be punished with a fine of $3,000 for each employee that has to turn to the health insurance exchange for coverage.

"Only 8 percent say they would seriously consider making no or minimal changes to increase the number of eligible employees and instead pay the required penalty," said the Mercer report. "Some (16 percent) say they will strongly consider adding a lower-cost plan for these newly eligible employees rather than adding them to an existing plan for full-time employees."

Less than 10 percent of survey respondents said that they would rather pay a fine than make changes to the number of eligible staff members.

Most elements of the Health Care Act won't be in effect until 2014, but the bill has already made some changes. Currently, small companies can receive tax credits for offering health insurance to their employees.

Small Business Health Insurance Tax Credit Calculator

nospam@example.com (Todd Page) — Mon, 17 May 2010 10:00:00 -0500

We have recently updated the small business health insurance tax credit calculator.

This is a easy to use site that will help you determine what, if any, tax credit you can get as a small business as part of the new health insurance reform law.

Health Insurance Tax Credit Calculator

Click on tax credit calculator

New act designed to prevent healthcare fraud

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Fri, 14 May 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Scamming the health care system just became more difficult with the new Affordable Care Act in place.

The combined monitoring forces of the Justice Department, Health and Human Services Department and police are designed to save taxpayer dollars by making it harder for providers to submit false claims.

Providers may be subject to background checks and site visits prior to charging Medicare or Medicaid. The new act gives law enforcement the power to punish criminals with longer prison sentences and an additional $300 million in resourses to bolster enforcement.

"We know that as long as health care fraud pays and goes unpunished, our health care system will remain under siege. These crimes harm all of us - government agencies and programs, insurers and health care providers, and individual patients," said Attorney General Eric Holder. "We are fighting back, and will use the expanded capabilities that the Affordable Care Act provides to stop health care fraud in its tracks."

The Affordable Health Care Act will be focusing primarily in areas with high fraud, such as Los Angeles, Houston, Detroit and Baton Rouge, according to the Justice Department and HHS.

Last year, anti-fraud initiatives resulted in over $2.5 billion being returned to the Medicare Trust Fund, a 29 percent increase from 2008.

National foundation applauds healthcare reform

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Fri, 14 May 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Young adults now have another option for health insurance - staying on their parents' plan.

Historically, young adults are 50 percent more likely to lack health insurance as any other age group according to the National Patient Advocate Foundation. Under the Affordable Care Act, children will be able to remain on their parents' policy until age 26.

Before the Affordable Care Act, the NPAF notes that many young adults found themselves uninsured when their parents' policies dropped them due to age.

The NPAF is lauding the Obama administration for their proposed health care provision.

"By issuing these proposed regulations, the administration has taken an important step in protecting all patients, particularly young adults who often go without health insurance and hope that they stay healthy," said Nancy Davenport-Ennis, Founder and CEO of NPAF. "NPAF will continue to work diligently with the administration and Congress to ensure that patients across the nation are protected from health care discrimination and are afforded the added security of health care coverage."

An estimated 1.2 million Americans will be affected by the proposed plan.

Health secretary honors National Women's Health Week

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 13 May 2010 02:00:00 -0500

The American healthcare system has historically allowed insurance to charge higher health insurance quotes for women - particularly those who have experienced domestic violence or certain medical procedures.

These practices will no longer be legal under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, which was passed by the federal government this March. In honor of National Women's Health Week, Department of Health and Human Services secretary Kathleen Sebelius called attention to these changes.

The annual observance occurs May 9-16 and serves as a reminder for women to make their health a priority. Recent recessionary conditions may have made it harder for these individuals to obtain and keep the health insurance necessary to meet their medical needs.

"Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, Women’s Health Week 2010 can be a true celebration of a healthier future for the women of America, and a new opportunity for all Americans to live longer, happier, and healthier lives," Sebelius said.

The recent healthcare reform will also prohibit insurers from charging higher premiums or denying people on the basis of their pre-existing medical conditions.

Action plan against childhood obesity is unveiled by White House task force

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 11 May 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Starting early may be one of the most important factors in reducing the childhood obesity rate.

Providing nutritious foods, ample opportunity for physical activity and limitations on television time are some of the practices that may be implemented at a young age. These are some of the steps featured in the White House Task Force on Childhood Obesity's report to the president, which aims at solving this health problem by 2030.

Other recommendations include increased access to healthy foods both in and outside of schools. This means lowering the prices on such items and reformulating available food products to make them healthier, according to the report. Greater access to playgrounds and recreational facilities as well as physical education courses can also decrease the obesity rate.

"We want to marshal every resource - public and private sector, mayors and governors, parents and educators, business owners and health care providers, coaches and athletes - to ensure that we are providing each and every child the happy, healthy future they deserve," First Lady Obama said.

Obesity can lead to medical complications - like heart disease and diabetes - that may make health insurance quotes more expensive over time.

Illinois governor aims to protect health insurance rights

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 10 May 2010 02:00:00 -0500

The governor of Illinois recently announced efforts to help residents receive and maintain affordable health insurance quotes.

The state is allocating $200 million in federal funds to establish a high-risk pool to help those with pre-existing medical conditions who have been uninsured for six months or longer obtain health insurance, according to an announcement. These funds are available through the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act passed by the government in March.

A Health Insurance Consumer's Bill of Rights would also protect women, children with pre-existing individuals and those who lose their plans through a rescission. A regulatory panel would ensure that rescissions are made lawfully - for fraud or misrepresentation - rather than an insurer's unwillingness to cover unhealthy customers.

"We must act now to increase health insurance protections for Illinois families and ensure that the state receives nearly $200 million in federal funds to help cover those who are uninsured and have pre-existing conditions," Governor Pat Quinn said.

Many of the protections extended through the Bill of Rights are also included in the federal healthcare reform but are not slated to take effect until later this year.

Growing number of states decline high-risk pool program

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 04 May 2010 02:00:00 -0500

While many states choose to participate in a new high-risk pool program aimed at helping uninsured individuals obtain healthcare, a growing number is also opting out, according to a recent report by the Washington Post.

There are currently 18 states declining involvement in the program, which was introduced as part of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius began gauging interest in the program earlier this spring. The high-risk pools will be available in some states as early as July 1.

Twenty-eight states and the District of Columbia said they would participate in the program. Those that opted out include Alabama, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Nebraska, Nevada, North Dakota, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia and Wyoming, according to the report.

Georgia was the first to opt out of this program, with Insurance Commissioner John Oxendine citing concern about the costs it would create for taxpayers. Others have since echoed these worries, according to the report.

Many of the individuals that may benefit from a high-risk pool are currently unable to obtain affordable health insurance quotes because of their pre-existing medical conditions.

College students should research on-campus healthcare plan

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 04 May 2010 02:00:00 -0500

While recent healthcare reform addressed the challenges many recent graduates face after college, it neglected to regulate the health insurance quotes they pay while obtaining their education.

The college health insurance plans many young students are forced to sign up for have left many confused about what they owe for services - until they're slapped with late fees, according to a recent report by the Wall Street Journal. School plans are not required at all universities, but can provide significant discounts on medical costs.

"Parents and students are paying exorbitantly and they are still not getting good services," Bryan Liang, executive director at the Institute of Health Law Studies at the California Western School of Law, told the Journal.

The report referred to research by Keybridge Research LLC showing that students and their families are overcharged by $2.3 billion to $2.9 billion each year by college healthcare centers. They may be able to minimize these expenses by determining how they will use these healthcare services versus local hospitals ahead of time, according to the report. They should also look into whether student health fees cover costs for vaccinations and workshops.

Individuals graduating from college will soon be able to remain on their parents' plans until age 26.

Health secretary calls on Americans to increase physical activity

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 03 May 2010 02:00:00 -0500

In honor of National Physical Fitness and Sports Month, Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius urged Americans to increase their physical activity.

When paired with a healthy diet, this may help individuals avoid several of the medical conditions linked to obesity and resulting in increased health insurance quotes. Sebelius pointed to First Lady Michelle Obama's "Let's Move" campaign as one example of the administration's efforts to increase physical activity, and discussed some of the long-term benefits associated with maintaining a healthy weight.

These include a lower stress level, a stronger heart and bones and improved concentrations and may result from various levels of exercise. Sebelius called Americans to join the president's challenge to make physical activity part of their daily routine.

"May is the perfect time to get active and healthy," Sebelius said. "As the weather gets warmer and flowers start to bloom, regular exercise can be both important and enjoyable."

The Department of Health and Human Services recommends that adults age 18 and older perform 30 minutes of physical activity at least five times a week to be healthy. Younger individuals need at least an hour a day.

Health secretary responds to report that insurance company dropped patients with cancer

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Fri, 23 Apr 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Starting this fall, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act will prohibit health insurers from rescinding legally-obtained policies.

This, however, has not prevented one of the nation's largest health insurance companies from dropping coverage for those recently diagnosed with breast cancer, according to a report by Reuters. The company allegedly used a computer algorithm to locate customers with this condition then cut off their coverage, in an effort to reduce costs.

The insurer responded to Reuters with a statement saying the software did not target those with breast cancer and that its rescission policies were adjusted appropriately after causing concern in 2006. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius wrote a letter to the health insurer calling its practices "deplorable" and urging them to immediately cease dropping coverage "from patients that need it most."

"This year alone, an estimated 192,000 American women will be diagnosed with breast cancer," Sebelius wrote. "I hope you will consider these women and their families as you work to end this harmful practice."

Recent reform will also prevent insurers from rejecting or charging high health insurance quotes to consumers with pre-existing medical conditions.

Senate committee proposes legislation to limit premium hikes

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 21 Apr 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Recent healthcare reform has been greeted with fears over whether universal coverage would cause health insurance quotes to skyrocket.

New regulations proposed by Senate Democrats may calm some of this concern, according to a recent report by the New York Times. The legislation gives the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services secretary the power to review and prevent and premium rate increases that were determined to be unreasonable. The bill would also give the federal government the ability to fill in for regulation gaps in certain states.

A similar provision was originally included in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, then left out of the final legislation. Tom Harkin, chairman of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, spoke out in support of this control.

"Protections must be in place to ensure that insurance companies do not take advantage of current market conditions before health reform fundamentally changes the way they do business in 2014," Harkin said in a statement.

Rate hikes proposed by Massachusetts health insurers were recently rejected by the state's Insurance Commissioner, Joseph Murphy, according to the Boston Globe. The insurance companies are currently required to resubmit rates.

Healthcare reform should be left to elected officials, North Carolina AG says

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 19 Apr 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Recent reform will soon mandate that all Americans purchase health insurance coverage.

Those that don't will be forced to face fees under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Attorneys general in several states have called these penalties unconstitutional and filed a lawsuit against the federal government.

The lawsuit was initiated by Florida Attorney General Bill McCollum immediately following the March 23 passage of the reform.

North Carolina Attorney General Roy Cooper has held out, according to a report by the Associated Press, saying that such decisions should be left to legislators rather than judges. The state's GOP chairman Tom Fetzer has responded with consternation. He said the universal healthcare mandate violated the federal government's power, according to the report.

"North Carolina needs an attorney general who understands the Constitution and has the courage to fight for her citizens," Fetzer was quoted as saying.

The reform bill will also penalize employers that do not offer health insurance coverage to their workers. A recent survey by Crain Communications showed that the majority of companies would choose to provide insurance plans rather than pay a $2,000 penalty per worker.

Massachusetts judge support rate hike rejections

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 13 Apr 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Affordable health insurance quotes may remain within reach for Massachusetts residents due to a ruling by Suffolk Superior Court.

Six of the state's largest health insurers appealed Insurance Commissioner Joseph G. Murphy's rejection of 235 rate hikes. These double-digit premium increases would affect about 50,000 insurance policies that were up for renewal, according to a recent article by the Boston Globe. Judge Stephen E. Neel ruled in favor of the rejections.

Insurers said the insurance division's actions exceed its authority and that such rate would be necessary to keep to prevent further losses within the industry and cover customers' medical costs. State officials have disagreed.

"Unless insurers can give us a good reason why, when everything else is flat, they deserve 20 percent, 30 percent, and in some cases 40 percent increases, they’re going to be denied," Governor Deval Patrick was quoted as saying.

The process has prevented small businesses and individuals from purchasing or renewing their plans through the state's online Health Connector, according to the report. Last week, the insurance division ordered insurers to recalculate their rates based on April 2009 levels. Many are complying.

Insurance commissioner rejects high-risk pool program

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 02:00:00 -0500

Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius recently announced she would reach out to state officials in order to gauge their interest in the high-risk pools program.

As part of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, the program will receive $5 billion in federal funding in order to ensure that those with serious medical conditions who have been uninsured for six months are able to receive the medical attention they need. The pools will be available starting July 1.

States have through April 30 to respond to Sebelius' inquiry. Republican Georgia Insurance Commissioner John Oxendine has already opted out of the program, citing budgetary concerns, according to a recent report by the Associated Press.

"I'm not going to subject Georgia taxpayers and the Georgia treasury to something that's going to be a burden on them," he told the wire service.

Many of the people who would benefit from the program have medical conditions currently preventing them from obtaining affordable health insurance quotes. Starting in 2014, healthcare reform will prevent insurers from charging higher premiums to those with pre-existing conditions.

Critics of the high-risk pools program also suspect that it may run out of funding before 2014.

2010 New Health Insurance Laws Questions and Answers

nospam@example.com (Todd Page) — Thu, 08 Apr 2010 11:04:11 -0500

Do you have questions about the new health insurance law?

When does all this start?
When will I be covered for pre-existing conditions?
Can I get coverage for my child with a pre-existing condition?
Can my small business get a tax credit for buying health insurance?
Do I have to buy health insurance or face a penalty?

We have all these answers and then some just visit: New Health insurance Laws

Looking for affordable health insurance with a tax credit?
Please visit: Affordable Health Insurance

2010 Health Insurance Tax Credit Calculator

nospam@example.com (Todd Page) — Thu, 08 Apr 2010 10:56:57 -0500

Are you a small business that is interested in learning what, if any tax credit you can receive from the new health insurance law?

We have the answers for you in a simple 3 step health insurance tax credit calculator.

Simply click here: Health Insurance Tax Credit Calculator

Just enter in the first three fields: Annual Employer premium contribution, number of employees, and the average wage per employee and it will automatically calculate it for you.

If you have any questions or are looking for affordable health insurance that you can receive these tax credits for please visit: Free Health insurance Quote