Health Insurance Quote

Cost of healthcare up considerably since ACA was passed

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 22 May 2013 19:00:00 -0500

Millions of Americans are slated to receive health insurance starting next year thanks to the Affordable Care Act, but the cost of paying for medical care has risen appreciably since the law was passed.

This year, it's believed that the average amount of money it will take to cover a family of four in this country will rise to $22,030, up from $20,728 last year and just $18,074 in 2010, when the ACA was first passed, according to the latest annual Milliman Medical Index. Of that amount, $9,144 is currently paid directly by the households with this type of coverage, between deductions taken from payroll and out-of-pocket costs, and that total is more than they will typically spend on groceries in a given year by a wide margin.

Meanwhile, out-of-pocket costs alone will likely rise to $3,600 for the year, and that total exceeds the average family of four's annual fuel expenditures by nearly $700, the report said.

As a consequence, many consumers may need to carefully consider the best ways in which they can make sure they are covered in compliance with the new healthcare laws, but also keeping their costs for doing so as low as possible.

Economically disadvantaged Americans face healthcare worries

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 21 May 2013 19:00:00 -0500

While many Americans will be in a position to have their healthcare costs under the Affordable Care Act reduced through tax credits, more than one-quarter might have significant financial issues beyond that.

Today, 27 percent of Americans who are currently uninsured and under the age of 65 whose household incomes make them eligible for ACA tax credits do not have a checking account and are consequently considered to be "unbanked," according to new research from Jackson Hewitt Tax Service. The reason this could be problematic is that many insurance companies require their customers to pay premiums through automatic deductions for such accounts, and that in turn could make it more difficult for these people to obtain coverage.

This problem will likely be most pronounced in states where the federal government is running their exchanges, as 11 of the 12 states with the largest proportion of unbanked consumers will fit this designation, the report said.

As a result, many Americans may want to look into alternatives to enrolling in federally-run health insurance exchanges that will give them better options for paying for coverage, which might fit their personal needs better.

Many employers set to offer plans with few benefits

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 20 May 2013 19:00:00 -0500

Experts have long speculated on just how business owners would work to keep their costs down while still complying with the Affordable Care Act's coverage mandate, and now it seems that many are set to offer coverage that comes at an extremely low price but provides little in the way of actual benefits.

Some of the plans that many businesses are now planning to extend their employees could cost them as little as $40 or $100 per month, according to a report from the Wall Street Journal. The goal with such plans is to meet the bare minimum requirements of the ACA while also depressing costs as much as possible, though this will likely come at the expense of employee healthcare options.

"What our goal was all along was to make [offering coverage] financially palatable for the company as a whole, so we didn't do damage and have to let people go or slow down our growth," Brian Livingston, chief financial officer of Firebird Restaurant Group, which plans to offer such plans to workers, told the newspaper.

These types of decisions could have significant negative impacts on workers' health, and for this reason, it's important that people who might be offered such plans know their options before they accept them.

How will Affordable Care Act provisions affect spouse coverage?

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Sun, 19 May 2013 19:00:00 -0500

Many Americans will be able to obtain health insurance coverage through their employers for the first time as a result of the Affordable Care Act, but now many experts say that even these changes could be problematic for stay-at-home partners or spouses.

While the ACA mandates that workers and their children must be covered by the insurance policies extended by employers, the rules do not specify that a spouse has to receive such coverage as well, and as such, that might leave many out in the cold, according to a report from Mother Jones. It's not yet clear exactly how employers will treat this potential loophole, but there may be the potential for coverage issues as a result.

"Right now there are virtually no employers that just offer coverage for the employee and their children," Tim Jost, a healthcare law scholar at the Washington and Lee University School of Law, told the site. "Whether that will change or not, who knows. We will probably see at least some employers who will offer individual and child coverage, but not coverage for spouses."

Consumers dealing with changing healthcare coverage may want to review all their options before they commit to any plan provided to them by their employers.

Many businesses plan to alter approaches under ACA

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 16 May 2013 19:00:00 -0500

While many companies say they will either definitely or probably won't alter the way they offer health insurance to their employees under the Affordable Care Act, the fact remains that some are at least considering moving away from the practice.

In all, three in 10 employers nationwide say that they are currently undecided about the way in which they will continue to cover full-time employees' health insurance costs, according to a new study from the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans. That's down from 53 percent in 2012, and most of the change came as a result of more companies determining that they definitely will continue to cover workers.

One-quarter say they're very likely to do so, and 4 percent say they're at least somewhat likely, the report said. In addition, 2 percent are somewhat unlikely and 1 percent is very unlikely to continue doing so. Another 1 percent has decided they definitely will not.

Even the small percentage who are leaning toward discontinuing this type of coverage, or have decided to do so, can potentially affect large amounts of people across the country, leaving them to fend for themselves when it comes to finding and purchasing affordable insurance going forward.

IRS Releases 2014 HSA Limits

nospam@example.com (JLBG Health) — Thu, 16 May 2013 08:08:32 -0500

The IRS has released contribution and deductible limits for 2014 via Revenue Procedure 2013-25. For calendar year 2014, the annual contribution limitation for an individual with self-only coverage under a high deductible health plan is $3,300. The family limit is $6,550.

For calendar year 2014, a 'high deductible health plan' is defined as a health plan with an annual deductible that is not less than $1,250 for self-only coverage or $2,500 for family coverage, and the annual out-of-pocket expenses (deductibles, co-payments, and other amounts, but not premiums) do not exceed $6,350 for self-only coverage or $12,700 for family coverage.

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) requires that in-network EHB out-of-pocket expenses for non-grandfathered plans not exceed out-of-pocket (OOP) limits set by the IRS for high deductible health plans (HDHPs). Non-grandfathered plans that cover essential health benefits (EHBs) must limit member out-of-pocket expenses for EHBs (in-network) to $6,350 for individual plans and $12,700 for family plans. This applies to plan years beginning on or after Jan. 1, 2014.

The problem lately with high deductible health plans (HDHPs) is that the government has capped the deductibles and OOP allowing only small increases each year. The high deductible plans of 1997 when the HSA started, have not been able to keep pace with healthcare costs.

Nowadays it's common for people to seek plans with higher annual out-of-pocket expenses than an HSA plan in order to save money on lower premiums. This will mean large rate hikes when these plans 'reset' to become Qualified Health Plans (QHP) on Jan. 1, 2014. For many people this will cause plan premiums to sky rocket. A family plan with a $20,000 annual out-of-pocket could see premiums triple Jan. 1, 2014. The premium would double if that plan had to become compliant with the new IRS limits today.

There is a little known loophole allowing many to postpone the QHP reset until December 2014. "This could mean thousands in savings...the response has been overwhelming and we have already helped over 1800 families plan properly since late April", says James W. Barnes, CFP, Executive Vice President at JLBG Health. "It's really a win win for the policyholder, they can move to a QHP in January, or stay on their current plan with no change in rates or benefits until December 2014, the choice is theirs."

Some native Americans may be penalized by ACA mandates

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 15 May 2013 19:00:00 -0500

Hundreds of thousands of people nationwide who classify themselves as Native Americans on official government documents will have to pay substantial fines under the Affordable Care Act unless they can provide adequate proof of their heritage.

These citizens will be required to either buy their own health insurance policies or pay fines of nearly $700 to the IRS annually unless they can prove themselves to have enough Native American ancestry to qualify for one of the exemptions under the ACA, according to a report from the Associated Press. This may leave many people who self-identify as Native Americans to deal with significant issues going forward, as more than 100 tribes across the country are recognized by the states in which they reside, but not the federal government.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services says it is aware of the potential problem, which could affect more than 480,000 people nationwide, but cannot do anything without approval from Congress, the report said.

Many Americans may be adversely affected by the ACA's various mandates, and it's up to each one to determine how the law will affect them personally.

Nearly half of small business owners down on Affordable Care Act

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 14 May 2013 19:00:00 -0500

Many experts have speculated about just how well the Affordable Care Act's coverage mandates will be received by small business owners nationwide, and new data shows that almost half are not in favor of it.

In a recent poll, 48 percent said that they feel the law will have a negative impact on their businesses, and another nearly two in five percent felt as though it would have no impact, according to Gallup. Only 9 percent felt as though it would be good for their companies. In addition, more than half also thought that the law would reduce the quality of the healthcare they and their employees would receive, even as slightly more than that expected far at least slightly costs.

More than two in five also said that the law would lead them to scale back or entirely halt plans to hire new employees, while slightly fewer said that it would affect their abilities to grow their businesses, the report said. About one-quarter also said they considered dropping health insurance for their workers.

This might leave workers with far fewer options for obtaining the health insurance they and their families may need in their everyday lives.

Awareness of ACA exchanges still lacking

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 13 May 2013 19:00:00 -0500

While millions of Americans are supposed to be able to enjoy numerous benefits as a result of the implementation of the Affordable Care Act next year, many problems related to even alerting consumers to the exchanges and helping them understand them still linger.

Many experts believe that the federal government and state entities have generally not done a very good job of getting the word out about the ACA's health insurance exchanges, which are intended to help millions of Americans find cost-effective healthcare policies that work for them, according to a report from KHI News Services. However, significant efforts are now underway, with millions of federal dollars behind them, to spread awareness of the marketplaces and how consumers can and should get involved.

"It's going to create new opportunities for people who don't have any insurance at all," Andy Corbin, chief executive of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas, told the news agency. "And for those people who don't make much money but who have had insurance, it may save them some dollars."

Consumers will need to carefully consider their obligations under the ACA, as they will be mandated to have some sort of coverage. Taking costs into account will likely be vital to their financial futures and health.

Will health insurance tax increase premium costs for consumers?

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Sun, 12 May 2013 19:00:00 -0500

Many small business owners are now expressing concern about an aspect of the Affordable Care Act that adds a new tax for companies issuing health insurance policies, because of the ways in which the new rule might affect their bottom lines.

It's believed that insurance companies will pass the cost of this new tax, mandated by the ACA, onto consumers and small businesses who buy their coverage through them, according to a report from the Washington Post. However, larger companies will generally remain unaffected by the change, because they tend to run their own insurance programs and therefore do not have to deal with large insurers.

"It disproportionately hits individuals and small-business owners, the people who have been hurt most by these challenging times," Ryan Thorn, owner of a small insurance planning firm near Salt Lake City, told lawmakers during a congressional hearing Thursday, according to the newspaper.

With higher costs expected to come for small businesses and individuals buying their own coverage, it may become even more vital for those involved to carefully look into the most affordable policies possible that still best fit their needs going forward.

Department of Labor Releases Model Exchange Notice

nospam@example.com (JLBG Health) — Fri, 10 May 2013 08:33:00 -0500

On May 8th the U.S. Department of Labor announced Technical Release No. 2013-02, which provides guidance regarding the employer notification about new coverage options through the health insurance exchange. The guidance requires all employers to provide notice of coverage options to each employee, regardless of plan enrollment status or of part-time or full-time status. Starting October 1, 2013 the employer must provide notice at the time of hiring. Current employees must be notified no later than October 1, 2013.

The notice is required to be provided automatically, free of charge. It can be provided in writing either by first-class mail, or electronically if the department’s electronic disclosure safe harbor requirements are met. To satisfy the content requirements for FLSA section 18B model language is available on the Department’s website www.dol.gov/ebsa/healthreform. There is one model for employers who do not offer a health plan and another model for employers who offer a health plan or some or all employees.

The guidance also provides updated rules regarding the election notice employers must provide to employees in regards to COBRA continuation coverage. The election notice must be provided within 14 days of the employer learning of a qualifying event, as well as a list 12 items that must be contained in the notice:

-The name of the plan and the name, address, and telephone number of the plan's COBRA administrator;

-Identification of the qualifying event;

-Identification of the qualified beneficiaries (by name or by status);

-An explanation of the qualified beneficiaries' right to elect continuation coverage;

-The date coverage will terminate (or has terminated) if continuation coverage is not elected;

-How to elect continuation coverage;

-What will happen if continuation coverage isn't elected or is waived;

-What continuation coverage is available, for how long, and (if it is for less than 36 months), how it can be extended for disability or second qualifying events;

-How continuation coverage might terminate early;

-Premium payment requirements, including due dates and grace periods;

-A statement of the importance of keeping the plan administrator informed of the addresses of qualified beneficiaries;

-A statement that the election notice does not fully describe COBRA or the plan and that more information is available from the plan administrator and in the plan’s summary plan description (SPD).

Obama administration steps up ACA enrollment effort

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 09 May 2013 19:00:00 -0500

Millions of Americans will be eligible for the health insurance exchanges put into place by the Affordable Care Act at the start of next year, but enrollment so far has been rather discouraging.

To that end, the Obama administration is now significantly increasing its own efforts to get more people signed up for the insurance marketplaces by pouring some $150 million into community health centers in an effort to encourage them to enroll more people, according to a report from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. In all, the nearly 1,200 such centers nationwide serve about 21 million patients every year.

"Health centers have extensive experience providing eligibility assistance to patients, are providing care in communities across the Nation, and are well-positioned to support enrollment efforts," said HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius. "Investing in health centers for outreach and enrollment assistance provides one more way the Obama administration is helping consumers understand their options and enroll in affordable coverage."

Many consumers may simply not know about their obligations under the ACA to find some sort of health insurance, and as such have not even considered signing up for the exchanges despite their participation being mandated by law.

How much will ACA tax credits help consumers?

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 08 May 2013 19:00:00 -0500

The Affordable Care Act requires that all Americans must be covered by some sort of health insurance policy starting next year, and the federal government has introduced tax credits designed to help defray these added costs. However, there is some speculation about how much these will help consumers.

Tax credits extended to some Americans to help cover ACA-mandated health insurance coverage could aid in their efforts to reasonably afford these policies, according to a report from Medill News Service. However, the benefits will vary considerably from one person to another, and experts say it may be difficult for people to predict exactly how much assistance they may get.

"Individual tax credits are going to be an extraordinary large variable in this law," Bob Graboyes, a senior fellow at the National Federation of Independent Business, told the agency. "If it were to work as planned, it would be very large. How large, again, is subject to enormous variability."

Consumers should try to do all they can to better understand the ways in which the ACA will affect their costs going forward, as doing so will likely help them to better plan for the coverage mandate going into effect so that they can afford the care they need.

Why many employers are considering cutting part-timers' hours

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 07 May 2013 19:00:00 -0500

Many experts have cautioned that small business owners might choose to cut many part-time employees' hours rather than provide them with health insurance as mandated by the Affordable Care Act, and cost is the reason why.

The average part-time worker will cost their employers some $9,562 annually to insure under the ACA's coverage mandate, according to a report from the Washington Post. Consequently, 4 percent of companies say they are now trying to move toward a larger number of employees working fewer hours each, and many more may be considering doing the same.

Many may also choose to simply pay the fine imposed by the federal government for not insuring their workers, which comes in at just $2,000 per employee per year, the report said.

The law mandates that businesses with more than 50 employees working 30 hours or more a week must offer the coverage. However, experts say that many of these people may look to private or public health insurance exchanges in an effort to obtain the most affordable insurance coverage possible when they cannot receive it from their employers.

Employers unsatisfied with ACA mandate's cut-off

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 06 May 2013 19:00:00 -0500

The Affordable Care Act states the companies with 50 or more employees working 30-plus hours per week have to extend those workers offers for health insurance coverage, but now many businesses want that cut-off raised significantly.

A number of trade associations are lobbying to raise the number of hours employees will have to work to be eligible for this type of coverage, according to a report from the Wall Street Journal. This is because the federal government considers those working 34 hours to be full-timers, and in all some 7.92 million people through the end of April are beneath that threshold.

Employers who do not comply with the requirement will face fines of $2,000 per eligible employee not covered per year, the report said. The Congressional Budget projects that this will cost businesses some $106 billion between 2014 and 2022, but may actually save them money compared with the cost of providing these workers with insurance coverage.

Employees might therefore not be able to receive the kind of healthcare coverage they may have anticipated from their companies, and could need coverage through individual insurance exchanges instead.

Do high-deductible health insurance plans help or hurt consumers?

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Sun, 05 May 2013 19:00:00 -0500

As the date by which consumers will be required to have health insurance coverage under the Affordable Care Act approaches, many may be increasingly interested in plans that come with high deductibles because they carry low monthly costs.

However, some experts caution that this type of plan may not necessarily behoove all Americans, particularly those that seek healthcare regularly, because they can leave policyholders with significant ongoing costs, according to a report from the Los Angeles Times. In particular, these plans may be favored by those with lower incomes because they come with far lower monthly costs, but in the event of a medical emergency, those savings could be replaced by far higher bills that may be extremely difficult to afford.

"You've got to be putting away money as you go along so if something bad happens you're prepared and you're not in a situation where you can't access the care you need," Linda Blumberg, an economist and senior fellow at the Urban Institute, told the newspaper.

Under the ACA's coverage mandate, consumers need to carefully consider exactly what type of insurance plan will work best for them given their personal finances and medical conditions.

New Yorkers likely to face far higher health insurance costs

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 02 May 2013 19:00:00 -0500

Experts have long projected that the insurance rates for many consumers would rise under the Affordable Care Act's health coverage mandate and a well-known federal lawmaker recently confirmed that this would likely be the case for his home state.

U.S. Sen. Chuck Schumer of New York recently said that the state's insurance department is likely to receive rate change requests that could increase consumers' costs for coverage by as much as 10 percent or more starting next year, according to a report from CBS D.C. However, he also noted that there might be some controls that the agency might have to at least keep those substantial increases from being larger than that.

"Our insurance department is empowered to protect families and we're going to watch them like a hawk to make sure they do, because if they don't, these rates could go through the roof," Schumer said on a Rochester radio station, according to the site. "It's in part because of Obamacare, but health care costs have been going up in double digits for years and years and years."

It's believed that younger, healthier people in particular will probably see far higher insurance costs because of rules related to the ways older Americans can be charged in relation to those with lower ages.

Part-time workers could have double-dip ACA issues

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 02 May 2013 19:00:00 -0500

Because the Affordable Care Act mandates that companies must provide health insurance coverage for employees working 30 hours or more a week when they have 50 or more such workers, many of these people are actually facing a dual problem.

Instead of covering these people, a large number of employers nationwide are simply cutting back these workers' hours so that they fall below the threshold,. As such, those people - data from the University of California at Berkeley shows that it could be as much as some 2.3 million workers nationwide - now have less take-home pay and also don't have the benefit of receiving insurance through their employers. As such, they will likely have to pay for it themselves on the new individual exchanges.

"That will be a widespread strategy," Dede Kennedy-Simington, vice president at Polenzani Benefits, told the newspaper. "Employers will be making sure their payroll system can flag when part-time workers are getting close to the cap they set."

Many experts have expressed concerns about the ways in which employers might react to the ACA's coverage mandate, and some believe it could take years before the full effects are sorted out.

Small businesses can expect massive health insurance price increases

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 01 May 2013 19:00:00 -0500

Numerous studies show that costs for health insurance will likely rise for some people under the Affordable Care Act's coverage mandate, but this may be particularly true for many of the nation's small businesses.

Small businesses likely face significantly rising health insurance coverage in many states across the country, according to a report from the Associated Press. For instance, Rhode Island has seen insurers ask for premium hikes of 14 percent, while there are double-digit increases projected for Maryland as well, and it's believed that this will become a nationwide trend.

However, there is considerable uncertainty about the effect these rates will have on small businesses in particular as well, largely due to the fact that most states haven't received any data from insurers on this, and some laws may be awaiting approval that would alter the ways in which these can be addressed, the report said.

Under the ACA, small businesses with 50 or more full-time employees will be required to provide them with health insurance coverage options or face significant fines, which in turn is likely to prove burdensome for many independent companies.

Fewer insurers than expected getting involved in marketplaces

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 01 May 2013 19:00:00 -0500

While many experts noted that it was likely that the new Affordable Care Act's mandated health insurance exchanges would likely attract a large number of policy issuers, it seems that this isn't the case in Illinois.

So far, just six insurance companies say they want to participate in the Illinois marketplace, offering a total of just 165 policies for residents there to choose from, according to a report from the Associated Press. Both numbers are far lower than anticipated and some now worry whether the trend in that state will hold true nationwide. The decision among those not participating seems to be driven by concerns that their joining could be seen as a negative if the exchanges prove unsuccessful.

"I'm hearing that from other carriers in other parts of the country as well," Robert Laszewski, a former insurance executive who is now an industry consultant, told the news agency. "They are terribly fearful that if there's a poor launch (of the marketplaces) they're going to get blamed for a mess."

There is still considerable uncertainty about the ways in which federal and state-run exchanges will work, with just months remaining before consumers are supposed to be able to sign up for them.

Employers could see higher costs from ACA provisions

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 19:00:00 -0500

Some provisions of the Affordable Care Act were always likely to lead to higher costs than others, but now experts say that one designed to prevent discrimination could be rather costly for employers in particular.

The ACA's rule related to not giving preferential treatment to certain employees - specifically, that all must receive the same benefits - could lead to significantly higher costs for many companies, according to a report from Life Health Pro. Businesses do not want to or contractually cannot reduce benefits for or the way they cover higher-placed workers such as executives must, by law, extend that same coverage to all employees. Not doing so will result in a penalty of $100 per day per employee.

"It doesn't sound like a big deal, but when you take into account two very common practices that businesses have been following for years that would violate this provision, it really becomes meaningful, especially when you couple that with the penalties that are built into the act," Jay Starkman, the CEO of Engage PEO, told the site.

Consumers may see significant changes to the ways in which they are covered as a result of the ACA and may want to look into the most affordable options available to them.

Obama anticipates issues for ACA implementation

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 19:00:00 -0500

Many critics have said that there will likely be problems with the implementation of the Affordable Care Act's mandated health insurance exchanges, and President Barack Obama recently acknowledged these potential challenges.

There has been significant worry about just how ready the federal government will be to run or assist with the exchanges of the 33 states that did not choose to run their own marketplaces, according to a report from the Wall Street Journal. That number is far higher than what Obama and lawmakers likely projected, and has already led to a delay in the implementation of similar exchanges for small businesses, which have been pushed back by a year.

"Even if we do everything perfectly, there will still be glitches and bumps," Obama told reporters this week, according to the newspaper.

It's believed that some aspects of the ACA might also lead to higher costs for some consumers - particularly young adults - when it comes to paying for their health insurance on their own. This is because there are now rules about how much insurers can charge people based on their age.

Federal government reduces size of insurance enrollment forms

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 19:00:00 -0500

One of the major issues that opponents of the healthcare law have noted was the difficulty many families might have in signing up thanks to a 21-page document required to do so. Now, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services says it has dramatically reduced the size of these forms.

The new, shorter enrollment form is down from 21 pages to just three, and a second form designed specifically for families has also had its size reduced by two-thirds, according to a report from USA Today. The hope is that these moves will significantly reduce the amount of difficulties Americans have in signing up for the Affordable Care Act's exchanges.

"Consumers will have a simple, easy-to-understand way to apply for health coverage later this year," Marilyn Tavenner, acting administrator for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, told the newspaper. "The application for individuals is now three pages, making it easier to use and significantly shorter than industry standards."

Experts have often noted that there may be some problems in implementing these exchanges, including getting all the people required to sign up for them to do so as expediently as they could.

Exchanges likely won't end states' health insurance monopolies

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Sun, 28 Apr 2013 19:00:00 -0500

Recent data shows that many states have significant problems related to competition in the health insurance industry, with more than half of various populations covered by just one policy issuer. Now, experts believe the issue will not be alleviated with the implementation of the Affordable Care Act's exchanges.

In general, it's believed that these exchanges could help to increase competition in states where there are already a significant number of major insurers, but will likely create little change where there remains one major insurer, according to a report from Kaiser Health News. Much of the reason for this is that it is likely to be difficult for companies hoping to get into single insurer-dominated states to implement the mechanisms necessary for exchange participation.

"You can talk in theory about how competition will thrive in these exchanges, but the health plans don't actually have a lot of time to get product on the shelf," Cheryl Smith, a consultant who helped set up an exchange in Utah, told the site. "If you don't have product on the shelf, where's the competition?"

It's believed that these exchanges will be set up and ready to go by the proposed Oct. 1 start date for open enrollment, but some worry that states might not meet these goals.

Fewer young people now uninsured

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 19:00:00 -0500

Since the implementation of a number of aspects of the Affordable Care Act, the number of young adults who do not have health insurance coverage has declined substantially.

Between 2010 and 2012, the number of people between the ages of 19 and 25 nationwide covered by some sort of health insurance rose to 13.6 million, from 11.7 million, according to a new study by the Commonwealth Fund. That in turn led to a decline to just 41 percent of people in this age group who were not covered by insurance at any point in the previous 12 months, compared with 48 percent just two years ago.

Now, 79 percent of those polled said they were insured when the survey was conducted, up 10 points from the same survey two years prior, marking an increase of about 3.4 million young people, the report said. Prior to 2010, when the ACA was passed, there had been significant increases in this area for close to a decade.

However, some experts have noted that young Americans might see significant increases in their healthcare costs once the ACA's coverage mandate goes into effect because of rules pertaining to variation in how much insurers can charge people of different ages.

Lawmakers criticize implementation of ACA

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 19:00:00 -0500

There have been numerous difficulties and even outright roadblocks experienced as the federal government ramps up its efforts to have the Affordable Care Act's mandated health insurance exchanges in place by October, and those troubled efforts have recently drawn the ire of a number of top legislators.

A recent hearing of the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations of the House Energy & Commerce Committee saw Republican lawmakers question Gary Cohen, director of the Center for Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, over whether the ACA would cause costs to rise for exchanges, according to a report from Life Health Pro.

At particular issue is the $304 million enrollment campaign from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that was designed to help many Americans become aware of the exchanges, the report said. Beyond that, an additional $54 million went to pay groups that helped sign people up for the marketplaces.

For its part, HHS has repeatedly reassured officials and the public that its proposed October 1 start date for open enrollment to begin is on schedule.

Small business owners see ACA as a negative

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 19:00:00 -0500

The federal law mandating that employers with 50 or more full-time workers must provide them with health insurance coverage of some kind has routinely drawn the ire of many business owners, and that was once again reflected in a recent poll.

Today, 60 percent of small business owners nationwide say that they believe the ACA will have a negative impact on their bottom lines in the long run, a number unchanged from last year, according to the latest U.S. Bank Small Business Annual Survey. Moreover, the number of owners who felt it would be positive slipped to 20 percent from 21 percent a year earlier.

Moreover, 59 percent of companies did not have a contingency plan to help cover the higher costs associated with providing this type of coverage to workers, the report said. And while just 14 percent said they did have such a plan, more than four in five said they had already implemented it.

With all the uncertainty the law has caused in recent months, workers at small businesses may want to consult with their employers to see how the law will affect them, and look into their options on the government-run health insurance exchanges.

Working families biggest recipients of ACA tax credits

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 19:00:00 -0500

While millions of Americans will be eligible for tax credits to help them pay for their new health insurance costs under the Affordable Care Act's coverage mandate, the majority will go to those with lower and middle incomes.

In all, 56 percent of people getting tax credits to help cover their premiums will have the incomes of between 200 and 400 percent of the federal poverty level, meaning that families of four will have incomes between $47,100 and $94,200, according to a new survey from Families USA. In fact, nearly 9 in 10 recipients will be working families, and altogether more than 25.7 million people nationwide will likely receive these benefits, which will be granted at the time they purchase their coverage, rather than on their tax returns.

Further, 36 percent of recipients will be likely young adults in particular, making them the largest age demographic to receive coverage, the report said.

Millions of Americans will also begin receiving health insurance through their employers, thanks to the ACA's mandate that companies with more than 50 full-time workers must extend them some sort of coverage.

Far fewer now covered by employers' health insurance

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Sun, 21 Apr 2013 19:00:00 -0500

The number of Americans covered by health insurance policies offered by their employers has fallen significantly in the last decade-plus.

Through the end of 2011, some 11.5 million fewer people nationwide received health insurance coverage from an employer at the end of 2011 than the roughly 170 million who did so in 2000, according to a new study from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. In all, that accounts for just 59.5 percent of the population through 2011, down from 69.7 percent just 11 years earlier.

"Higher costs naturally translate into fewer employers offering insurance coverage, and fewer employees accepting it, even when it is offered," said Risa Lavizzo-Mourey, president and CEO of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. "That is why it is so important that people have options for purchasing affordable health insurance that meets their needs."

Fortunately, many workers may have a wider variety of options when it comes to covering themselves and their families starting next year, when the health insurance exchanges run by state and federal governments go into effect, and allow workers of all income levels to better find the policies they need.

Experts say expanded Medicaid could mean higher costs, other issues

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 18 Apr 2013 19:00:00 -0500

Part of the federal government's efforts to roll out the Affordable Care Act's coverage mandate before the start of next year includes a plan that would increase the number of people covered by Medicaid nationwide. However, experts say that could come with some serious issues for recipients.

The federal government is urging states to expand their Medicaid programs to cover more residents with low incomes, but it's believed that their doing so will have the dual effect of raising costs for all involved while simultaneously reducing the level of care those enrolled in the initiatives receive, according to a report from Michigan Capitol Confidential. This predicted decline in care comes as a result of the fact that it seems likely that states will not be able to pay as much per visit to cover costs as they do now, and as a consequence, healthcare facilities may be less likely to accept visits from Medicaid recipients.

The federal government's efforts to get Medicaid expanded come even as it attempts to broaden tax breaks for those who do not qualify, but rather would be forced to enroll in federal or state health insurance exchanges.

Will working families be able to find healthcare subsidies?

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 19:00:00 -0500

Though the Affordable Care Act mandates that all Americans be covered by some sort of health insurance plan starting next year, the federal government also recognized that this might be burdensome for many, and as such put in place a number of subsidies.

Luckily for many of these consumers with lower incomes, new data from Families USA shows that about 25.7 million people nationwide will be eligible for such assistance when the ACA's coverage mandate goes into effect, according to a report from USA Today. Those subsidies will extend some $350 billion in assistance to consumers between 2010 and 2019.

Families making between $47,000 and $94,000 annually will receive about half of that money, and those making less than that will be far more likely to be covered by states' expanded Medicaid programs, the report said. The most likely age group to be eligible for these subsidies are consumers up to 36 years old.

Consumers worried about how they will cover their own health insurance bills starting next year may want to look into all the options available to them from the state and federal government.

Businesses taking drastic steps to cut healthcare costs

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 19:00:00 -0500

In an effort to get health insurance costs under control ahead of the mandated transition to required coverage under the Affordable Care Act starting next year, many businesses are changing their attitudes toward incentive programs that encourage workers' healthy habits.

Specifically, many are now instituting penalties to those who do not have healthy living situations in addition to incentivizing those who do, according to a report from the Orlando Sentinel. The hope is that by doing so, they can reduce the amount they have to pay to insure their entire workforce.

"We have had a lot of discussion about sticks versus carrots," Karen van Caulil, president of the employer group Florida Health Care Coalition, told the newspaper. "Studies have shown that some people are more motivated by concerns of loss than by gain or positive reinforcement."

Experts say that businesses could see far higher price tags for insuring their workers once the ACA's coverage mandate goes into effect, though exactly how large these price tags will be is still somewhat up in the air. Some believe it could take a period of a few years for the full effects of the legal changes to be felt.

Businesses may abandon group health insurance under ACA

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 19:00:00 -0500

Millions of businesses across the country will likely have to significantly alter their approaches to how they help their workers find health insurance coverage once the Affordable Care Act's mandates go into place at the beginning of next year. That includes cutting out group insurance, in some cases.

A new study recently found that 82 percent of industry executives are now expressing interest in eliminating group plans for employees and instead self-funding their own, and nearly a third say this uptick has been significant, according to a report from Life Health Pro. Further, close to seven in 10 health insurers say they plan to increase the size of their self-funding efforts over the course of the next year.

These programs will likely alter little for the employees themselves, as they'll still face monthly premiums and deductibles as they might have before, the report said. However, it can help to save businesses a significant amount of money in many cases.

So much uncertainty still remains around the issues related to the implementation of the ACA's coverage mandate that many experts believe it could take a period of a few years for everything to be sorted out.

Experts worry over ACA effect on small businesses

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Sun, 14 Apr 2013 19:00:00 -0500

There have been numerous concerns expressed about the implementation of the Affordable Care Act's coverage mandate on various aspects of the economy, but one that repeatedly comes up these days is whether it will hurt small business hiring in particular.

The law states that companies with more than 50 full-time employees must offer those workers some sort of healthcare coverage, but experts say that could be extremely burdensome for even larger independent businesses, according to a report from the Harrisburg Patriot-News. As such, some speculate that companies could discontinue hiring efforts or even cut existing jobs to avoid having to become compliant with this rule.

Companies can expect to pay thousands of dollars annually to cover these added costs, and even the federal fine that comes with failure to do so could be quite large, as it amounts to $2,000 per employee not covered, the report said.

However, some experts also note that there may be many results of the ACA that are as yet unforeseen, and that it may take a few years or more for all of them to become apparent.

Consumers still not understanding how exchanges will work?

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 19:00:00 -0500

One of the biggest hurdles to getting the new Affordable Care Act-mandated health insurance exchanges up and running is that most consumers across the country don't understand them or how they will work.

Many experts in the healthcare industry wonder whether the federal government, which is administering the exchanges in 33 states nationwide, has done enough to connect with consumers about the ways in which the marketplaces will work, according to a report from USA Today. This is true despite the fact that the government is spending tens of millions of taxpayer dollars to set up the systems, but is still trying to partner with organizations across the country to do the necessary community outreach.

"I'm getting very worried," says Stan Dorn, a senior fellow at the nonpartisan Urban Institute who studies outreach and enrollment for health programs. "Most health coverage expansions have not reached their target populations very quickly."

There is some worry whether individuals who might be most helped by the exchanges will not sign up in time to become compliant with the new mandate that requires them to have health insurance coverage, and that they might face significant fines as a consequence.

Young people may be particularly affected by exchange rollout disconnect

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 19:00:00 -0500

The deadline by which states have to have their health insurance exchanges open for enrollment is looming, but many experts fear that a number of Americans are simply unaware of the rules about their signing up. This problem may be particularly pronounced among younger people.

Young adults who do not have their own health insurance will be required to enroll in these health insurance exchanges just as any other consumer might but many may be at a significant disadvantage, according to a report from the Chicago Tribune. This is because, as with financial literacy, many young people simply don't know even basic information about how health insurance coverage works, and thus this requirement might throw them into the deep end without their first learning how to swim.

The problem may be further exacerbated by new rules which allow young adults to stay on their parents' health insurance coverage until they turn 26 years old, at which point they may be able to obtain their own coverage through exchanges or an employer. However, parents may want to make sure they do all they can to ensure their kids understand what they now have to get themselves into.

Some states moving forward with business exchanges

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Sun, 07 Apr 2013 19:00:00 -0500

The Obama administration recently pushed back the date at which it will implement small business healthcare exchanges in the 33 states for which it is running these marketplaces, but its decision to also delay requirements for other states won't stop some from starting them early.

States which opted to run their own health insurance markets have the option to put their own Small Business Health Option Program exchanges into place early, and some - including Oregon, Minnesota and Colorado - have already announced plans to move forward with their original start dates, according to a report from Politico. This is largely because these exchanges were included in the states' plans to take on implementation of their own exchanges as a means of generating bipartisan support, and abandoning those plans now would not be politically expedient.

However, the vast majority of states will not have this option available to employers within their borders, and as such it may require workers there who don't receive coverage to start looking into their options for paying for insurance themselves if they do not do so already.

Potential Medicaid expansion issues worry low-income consumers

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 19:00:00 -0500

These days, the federal government is trying to get states to expand their Medicaid programs to more effectively cover consumers who might not be able to afford the insurance mandated by the Affordable Care Act, but some are digging in their heels in defiance.

A number of states across the country - including Texas, Florida, South Carolina, and more - say they would prefer not to expand their Medicaid programs to cover more low-income residents, according to a report from CNN. Consequently, if they are able to avoid doing so, these people may be in a rather tough position when it comes to obtaining the kinds of coverage required for all Americans beginning on January 1, 2014. Under the Obama administration's proposal, Medicaid would be available to anyone making less than 138 percent of the federal poverty level.

While the federal government will extend subsidies to many Americans who otherwise might not be able to afford coverage, the proposed expansion of state Medicaid programs was specifically designed to help fill the gaps and ensure that all people, even those with low incomes of their own, were covered.

Small business groups not concerned over ACA marketplace delay

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 04 Apr 2013 19:00:00 -0500

The Obama administration recently announced that it would have to push back the date at which small businesses could enroll in their own specialized health insurance exchange, but advocacy groups for those companies say that such a delay will likely have little impact.

Though small business exchanges will now be available a year later than originally anticipated, small business groups and experts say that the good aspects of the ACA designed to aid small businesses will help to soften the blow considerably, according to a report from the Washington Post. For instance, rules that state 80 percent of small business health insurance premiums must be applied directly to the cost of providing care, and tighter regulation of ongoing interest rate hikes will likely serve as a significant financial boon for many companies buying coverage for their employees.

However, critics of the decision, including top Republican lawmakers, say that this could lead many smaller companies that would have otherwise participated in the exchange to delay offering coverage to their employees, the report said. This could take significantly more money out of those workers' annual finances.

There are also concerns among some experts that individual exchanges set up by the federal government may not be ready to go by their proposed start date.

ACA implementation worrying many small businesses

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 04 Apr 2013 19:00:00 -0500

Through the end of the first quarter, 45 percent of small business executives nationwide say that the Affordable Care Act is their companies' biggest financial concern going forward, and the majority say that this will cause major problems for their companies going forward.

Today, 71 percent of those polled say that the healthcare laws make it more difficult for them to hire workers, and 77 percent feel that this will make it more expensive to cover the workers they already have, according to the latest U.S. Chamber of Commerce Small Business Outlook Study. As a consequence, about one-third plan to cut hiring going forward, and slightly less feel that they will have to reduce the number of full-time workers they have in their employ. Additionally, 27 percent say they will simply stop insuring their workers as a result of the mandate that those with more than 50 employees must do so.

Workers whose companies discontinue covering their healthcare costs may have to fend for themselves through state health insurance exchanges, which may significantly increase the price they pay for coverage on an annual basis.

Vermont begins posting health insurance rates

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 03 Apr 2013 19:00:00 -0500

Consumers who may be concerned about the costs they face when signing up for insurance plans mandated by the Affordable Care Act through its special exchanges may soon seen greater transparency, as one state recently posted what these premiums will cost its residents.

Earlier this week, Vermont posted the out-of-pocket costs for health insurance programs through ACA-mandated marketplaces, according to a report from the Associated Press. For instance, a family of four with total annual income of $32,000 per year would pay just $45 per month to cover everyone, while a single person making $40,000 would have to pay $317 monthly.

Vermont is likely the first of many states that are running their own exchanges to release anticipated premiums for when the coverage mandate goes into effect at the start of next year, but more will likely do so in the next month or two, the report said. The other states, which will have their exchanges run in whole or in part by the federal government, have yet to publish such information.

There remains a lot of uncertainty about the ways in which implementation of the Affordable Care Act will cost consumers going forward, and some experts say it could take years for everything to normalize.

Experts warn over new tax bills as a result of ACA

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 02 Apr 2013 19:00:00 -0500

The Affordable Care Act's coverage mandate may be difficult for some people who currently do not have insurance to afford, but though subsidies for many will exist, that might also significantly endanger the state of recipients' tax burdens.

Those who get subsidies to buy private health insurance through the ACA's state exchanges when they don't receive it through their employers will receive them based upon their income levels, according to a report from the Associated Press. However, those who apply for the subsidies starting this fall, and then see their incomes go up over the course of 2013, may face far higher tax burdens because the government's subsidies will be doled out based on 2012's information.

An increased income could therefore lead to larger subsidies than recipients are actually entitled to, and the difference between what they got and what they should have gotten will be added to their tax bill at the end of the year, which will result in either larger bills or smaller returns, the report said.

There are many hurdles that still remain before full implementation of the ACA is achieved, and in fact, many experts say it may take years for all organizations which may be involved in the system to fully understand its impact.

Small business exchanges put on hold

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 02 Apr 2013 19:00:00 -0500

A plan by the Obama administration to create health insurance exchanges for small businesses to buy coverage for their employees has now been delayed due to problems related to implementation.

While the Affordable Care Act says that the federal government must set up a health insurance marketplace for small business, much like that for individuals, by the start of 2014, that will not take place, according to a report from the New York Times. Now, White House officials say that the 33 states which are running their exchanges through the federal government will not have these small business options in place until 2015, and those that chose to run the marketplaces on their own will likewise not be required to have them for these companies until the same time.

Many experts believe that one of the major reasons the ACA passed in the first place was that it included this provision to help small businesses better afford the coverage that was mandated by the law. Under its requirements, it says that businesses with 50 employees or more must extend the option of coverage to its workers.

Many questions linger about health insurance for 2014

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 01 Apr 2013 19:00:00 -0500

The Affordable Care Act's individual healthcare coverage mandate goes into effect on January 1, 2014, but many Americans still have a number of questions about what that will mean for them.

One of the primary concerns many consumers now have related to their health insurance requirements is whether their premiums will increase under the new rules, according to a report from the Washington Post. On average, the answer is likely no, but many experts believe young, healthy people in particular will face a heavier burden because of mandates related to how much costs can fluctuate by age. However, many may also be eligible for at least partially subsidized coverage as a result of their generally lower incomes.

Moreover, many workers have concerns that their employers will stop extending them insurance options as they have in the past, the report said. In these cases, meeting certain conditions can allow some workers to receive subsidies as well, but these may vary widely depending on the circumstances of the coverage being lost.

It's believed that, in general, it could take a period of a few years or more for the complexities of the new ACA mandate to work themselves out and make the health insurance market easier to understand for all participants.

Exchanges still struggle with enrollment

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 01 Apr 2013 19:00:00 -0500

Though the U.S. is just months away from the proposed start date for enrollment to open for its many state healthcare exchanges, the persistent problem many such endeavors encounter is that people simply aren't aware of them, and might not signing up.

Though 27 million people are expected to be covered under the new healthcare law, even similar, smaller enterprises such as Palm Beach County, Florida's own subsidized coverage - which offers policies for just $52 a month to those who make too much to qualify for Medicaid - has just 500 enrollees after a year of being open, according to a report from the Washington Post. That, in turn, could be a bad sign for similar adoption on the national level.

"A lot of people who are uninsured and can afford [coverage] don't buy it because they aren't sick," Paul Gionfriddo, a consultant with experience in this field, told the newspaper.

Numerous studies have shown that consumers are generally unaware of what their state exchanges will be able to provide, as well as what the Affordable Care Act's coverage mandate means for them.

No cure-all for marketing ACA exchanges

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Sun, 31 Mar 2013 19:00:00 -0500

There has been considerable consternation in recent months over the best ways to properly market and raise awareness of the Affordable Care Act's mandated health insurance exchanges, and new data shows that this is largely due to major gaps between intended demographics.

The more than 48 million people who are currently not covered by health insurance break up a few major groups, all with different needs, which makes reaching them about coverage requirements a little more difficult for state and federal agencies, according to a report from the Associated Press. For instance, nearly half of those without coverage are considered "healthy and young," while more than one-quarter are "sick, active, and worried," and another 15 percent are "passive and unengaged."

The first group, for instance, generally has a low motivation to enroll in exchanges because they largely feel it's unnecessary, while the second tends to be made up of older people who want a lot of healthcare information but are concerned about what coverage will cost them, the report said. The final group is older consumers who simply may not understand the requirements or benefits of the rule.

Government agencies are spending millions to get the word out about these exchanges before enrollment opens, but penetration of knowledge has been low.

Still uncertainty over what healthcare will cost companies

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Sun, 31 Mar 2013 19:00:00 -0500

One provision of the new healthcare laws going into effect at the start of next year is that businesses with more than 50 employees will have to start providing some means of coverage to their employees. And while many initially thought this might be extremely expensive, a number of major employers are now revising their projections significantly downwards.

Wendy's Co. recently noted that it might only cost $5,000 more per year to run each of its restaurants under the new Affordable Care Act coverage mandate, down 80 percent from initial estimates of a $25,000 increase, and a number of other prominent restaurant chains have reached similar conclusions, according to a report from the Wall Street Journal. Part of this is because it's believed that a large number of employees working at these restaurant locations will decline the insurance offered to them, mostly due to eligibility for Medicaid or plans shared with family members. Further, many may just be willing to accept a $95 annual penalty for not having coverage rather than pay for an entire plan.

Consumers may take many paths to coverage under the ACA's mandate, but experts say it could take a period of years to determine exactly how the insurance industry will react to the rule.

DHHS acknowledges some will face rate hikes

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 28 Mar 2013 19:00:00 -0500

Many experts have projected that a large number of Americans will likely see their health insurance premiums rise as a result of the individual coverage mandate aspect of the Affordable Care Act, and a top federal official recently confirmed this was likely to be the case, though with a caveat.

U.S. Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius recently noted that though data has yet to be finalized, it seems that some Americans likely will pay far higher premiums for the same health insurance under the ACA, starting next year, according to a report from Reuters. However, she also noted that another portion of the country will likely pay less than they currently do. In particular, older people who do not yet qualify for Medicare and do not have their own insurance will likely see costs tumble because the law specifically restricts how much they can be charged.

Experts have noted that it may take a period as long as a few years for all aspects and impacts of the ACA to become fully apparent, thanks in large part to the volatility in the market expected to come immediately after the mandate goes into place.

Many Americans face healthcare sticker shock

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 27 Mar 2013 19:00:00 -0500

Today, Americans who already pay for their own healthcare may have been paying more or less the same thing for their premiums for several years or more, but with the implementation of the Affordable Care Act's coverage mandate early next year, that might no longer be the case.

Many experts are now warning that a number of Americans who are currently footing their own bills for health insurance will likely see their premium costs rise sharply beginning next year, particularly if they are young and healthy, according to a report from the Macon Telegraph. For instance, some projections show that a relatively healthy 27-year-old man could pay as much as triple for their health insurance simply because of rules under the ACA that might have some unintended consequences.

The reason for this is that requirements of the rule state that there cannot be much variance in prices based on the age or condition of a person applying for individual coverage, and as such, insurers are simply likely to start raising the prices for younger, healthier people, rather than reduce them significantly for older Americans who may have ongoing health problems.

ACA problem could be costly for consumers

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 26 Mar 2013 19:00:00 -0500

Many Americans may have been expecting that they could better afford their health insurance costs thanks to tax credits promised by the Affordable Care Act, but now it seems there could be significant barriers to these breaks for some people.

Originally, the tax credits, which were set to average about $4,000 per family, were designed to help about 18 million people nationwide, according to a report from Reuters. However, because of the IRS's final interpretation of the tax rule - which specifies that a worker's share of a policy's premium cannot exceed 9.5 percent of household income - there may be significant issues.

The tax collecting agency says that affordability rules relate only to individual costs, meaning that workers who receive insurance through their employers well above the 9.5 percent limit will not be eligible for the tax credits, the report said. Consequently, it's estimated that between 2 and 4 million people nationwide will be financially affected.

Experts have long said that there may be a significant adjustment period after the coverage mandate goes into effect before anyone fully understands the total impact of the ACA.

Can exchanges handle influx of new sign-ups?

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 25 Mar 2013 19:00:00 -0500

The date by which all Americans will be legally required to have health insurance under the Affordable Care Act is rapidly approaching, and some wonder whether the federal government's exchange systems will be able to handle the volume of people signing up for its new exchanges.

Recent estimates from the Congressional Budget Office show that as many as 7 million people could begin signing up for these exchanges when they go live in October, ahead of the January 1, 2014, health insurance mandate, but the number could be much larger than that, according to a report from the National Constitution Center. As many as 24 million people are projected to to be brought into the fold on on the exchanges over the next three years or so, but there's no way of telling how many of them will sign up this year alone.

There is some concern about whether the federal government has the funding to manage this massive transition to new coverage plans. This may be particularly troublesome because it is now required to run far more state exchanges than it originally projected, leading to potential shortfalls, and studies already show outreach on requirements has been somewhat poor.

Will ACA affect small business hiring?

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 25 Mar 2013 19:00:00 -0500

The many regulatory overhauls under the Affordable Care Act will have myriad effects throughout the entire U.S. economy, and now some experts fear it might prevent smaller businesses from hiring more workers.

One aspect of the ACA states that businesses with more than 50 employees working 30 hours a week or more will be required to start paying for their workers' health insurance costs in some way, but some wonder whether that will just lead small businesses to never reach this threshold, according to a report from the Daily Pennsylvanian. Many may choose instead to hire more part-time workers who would not qualify for coverage under the rule.

"Employers in the 30- to 40-employee range will think very carefully about hitting that magic number of 50," Scott Harrington, a professor of health care management at the Wharton School, told the newspaper. "The primary effects would be on sectors and employers that are relatively low-wage and low-skill."

Many experts have said that it may take years for the full implications of the ACA's various mandates to become clear, and until that time there may be considerable flux nationwide, particularly in the healthcare industry.

ACA efforts still hitting snags

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Sun, 24 Mar 2013 19:00:00 -0500

The work of state and federal workers who are trying to get everything squared away for the implementation of the coverage mandate aspect of the Affordable Care Act has been diligent, but there are still many obstacles that may remain when it comes to getting everything up to speed.

With enrollment in state exchanges slated to open in just six months, many are far behind on their efforts to implement the necessary mechanisms, according to a report from the New York Times. This is complicated further by the fact that the U.S. Congress recently rejected a proposal from the Obama administration to extend an additional $1 billion in funding to help set up these exchanges properly, due to the fact that few experts predicted the federal government would have to set up 33 such marketplaces; many believed that total would be far lower.

Further, recent polls showing few people are aware of the ways in which the ACA might impact them shows just how little has been done to get the word out about it, the report said.

Many consumers may simply not understand what their obligations are under the new law, and therefore could find themselves not in compliance with it at some point after the coverage mandate goes into effect.

Everything you need to know about Health Care Reform (ACA) beginning in 2014

nospam@example.com (Todd Page) — Fri, 22 Mar 2013 10:15:22 -0500

How will the new Health Insurance Exchanges work and what will my options be in 2014?

Starting January 1, 2014, the newest and largest phase of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) will emerge. We have put together the most common elements of this new law and also what we feel are the issues that the self employed might be the most concerned with.

The following is a guide of how the Exchanges will work and what you can expect:
Health Insurance Exchanges are expected to go online in the 4th Quarter of 2013. A Health Insurance Exchange is a way for all people to shop for the most competitive prices on health insurance through one source.

What are my options going to be in 2014?

Medicaid:
If you are at or below approximately $15,000 of annual income as an individual or $31,000 per year as a family of four, you will be eligible for Medicaid and you would not be required to pay a premium.

State or Federal Exchange (Public Exchange):
Depending on which State you live in, you will have access to an Exchange administered by your State. If your State does not offer an Exchange, you will fall back on the Federal Exchange option. Four different options, called “Metal Plans” (Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum) will be offered through these Exchanges. Subsidies will be available based on your age, your income, and your geographic location. Subsidies will not be available for singles that make over approximately $47,000 per year and for families that make over $94,000 per year. All plans offered through the Exchange require some premium to be paid by the applicant. All Metal Plans will be ACA compliant and will include coverage for pre-existing conditions, Essential Health Benefits (EHB), and will be Qualified Health Plans (QHP), which simply means you will not be required to pay a tax penalty if you have a Metal Plan.

Private Exchange:
The private Exchanges work very much like the State and Federal (Public) Exchanges; however, they will offer more options outside of the “Metal” Plans. These plans will be required to have pre-existing condition coverage and Essential Health Benefits. They also must be QHP and ACA compliant. These plans do not have any subsidies available, but could potentially provide lower cost options than the State and Federal “Metal” plans. The Private Exchange's, more than likely, will be a better option for individuals and families that do not qualify for any premium subsidies. These plans are also QHP and you will not have to pay a tax penalty if you purchase one.

Non-Qualified Health Plans (NQHP's):
These plans are not major medical plans. They also are not ACA compliant and would require a tax penalty if you purchase one. However, the premiums could cost as much as 50% less and even more in some cases.

What is a Qualified Health Plan (QHP)?
A Qualified Health Plan is a plan that must include all ACA mandates, including coverage for pre-existing conditions and Essential Health Benefits (EHB). They additionally must contain both deductible and out of pocket maximums which are compliant with the Affordable Care Act (ACA). You are not subject to the tax penalty as long as you have a QHP compliant plan.

What are Essential Health Benefits (EHB)?
Essential Health Benefits are certain amounts of coverage that must be included in any ACA qualified plan (QHP) and must contain maternity benefits, substance abuse, and mental health coverage. We may see additional coverage mandates from the Federal government and also additional mandates from different States.

What is the tax penalty for not having QHP (Qualified Health Plan) insurance?
The tax penalty for an individual not having health insurance is 1% of your income in 2014, 1.5% in 2015, 2% in 2016, and 2.5% of your income in 2017.

Does your business have over 50 Employees?
If so, you must provide coverage to at least 95% of your employees (not dependents) or you must face a penalty or tax of $2,000 per employee (the first 30 employees are exempt). In order to achieve a 95% “take rate”, you would more than likely have to pay all or the majority of the employees’ premiums.

What if I own more than one business?
Unfortunately common ownership is taken into consideration as well. So if you own three businesses (and you are sole owner or one of the owners) and the total employees from all three companies is over 50 full-time employees, you are subject to the mandate and you must provide benefits or face the tax.

Do part-time employees count?
Yes. To determine this, you must take into consideration the hours all of your part-time employees work. When any number of employees’ combined hours equal 30 hours, it will count as one full-time employee. IE: (2) employees working 15 hours each (total of 30 hours) count as 1 full-time employee; (3) employees working 10 hours each (total of 30 hours) count as 1 full-time employee, etc.

What determines whether or not I will receive a premium tax subsidy?
Several factors are taken into consideration including age, geographic area of the US, tobacco use, and income.

What figure do I use for my income to determine if I qualify for a subsidy?
Start with your gross income which includes wages, unemployment, pensions, Social Security, retirement accounts, capital gains, rental income, dividends, interest, and several other factors. You may then take some deductions like alimony, student loan interest, car or truck expenses, insurance, depreciation, employee wages, contract labor, repairs and maintenance, commission taxes and licensing. ***This list is not all inclusive and other provisions may apply**

Will the tax subsidies be paid to me or the insurance company?
If you qualify for a premium tax subsidy, the amount the government pays will be paid directly to the insurance carrier you are enrolled with.

Will I be able to deduct the premium I have to pay?
If you are self-employed, you can deduct premiums from income for Federal and State tax (not FICA) each year on Page 1 of 1040. You may be able to use an IRS Section 105 Plan (HRA) if you have a spouse or at least one full-time employee. This will then enable you to take a Federal, State, and FICA deductions. If you are not self-employed, it does not appear you will be able to deduct premiums at this time and premiums must be paid with after tax dollars.

How do I go about applying for coverage?
You may visit JLBGHealth.com for information and rates for the Private (available now and rate lock until the end of 2014) and Non QHP plans (available now). Public plans are not yet available.

What will premiums look like with and without Government Tax Credits beginning January of 2014 through the Public Exchange (AKA State or Federal Exchanges)?

Example #1:
Single person, age 45, living in a medium regional cost zone, making $45,000 per year
Government Tax Credit: $111.66 per month
Remaining premium due by insured: $356.25 per month

Example #2:
Single, age 55, living in a higher regional cost zone, making anything over $47,000 per year
Government Tax Credit: None
Full premium due by insured: $849.41 per month

Example #3:
Family age 45, living in a medium regional cost zone, making $85,000 per year
Government Tax Credit: $514.17 per month
Remaining premium due by insured: $672.91 per month

Example #4
Family age 55, living in a higher regional cost zone, making $85,000 per year
Government Tax Credit: $672 per month
Remaining premium due by insured: $1,302.00 per month

Example #5
Family age 45, living in medium cost zone, making anything over $94,000 per year
Government Tax Credit: None
Full Premium due by insured: $1,424.00 per month

Example #6
Family age 55, living in higher regional cost zone, making anything over $94,000 per year
Government Tax Credit: None
Full Premium due by insured: $1,975.00 per month

** Family rates assume two adults (the same age with no tobacco use) having 2 children
** Tobacco usage rates are 50% higher than prices above**
***Costs are factored using the Silver plan option which is based on current Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimates
***Source: Kaiser Family Foundation Health Reform Subsidy Calculator

Many aspects of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) are still being determined at this time. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) continues to release updates on the ACA, sometimes on a daily basis. The “Insert Affiliate Name” posts these updates on the website below. “Insert Affiliate” members in 2014 will be able to access all four of the options that are listed above through the “Insert Affiliate” Health Insurance Exchange.

How can I avoid the Health Care Cliff and higher premiums coming in Jan 2014?
Beginning now and lasting through December of this year (2013), members can purchase a health insurance plan and lock in both the plan and the rate until the end December of 2014. In other words you can avoid these higher premiums and mandated plans by purchasing early and not having to worry about it for at least a year and in many cases well over a year. By locking your plan today, you could save thousands in 2014.
For more information on Health Care Reform, to lock in your plan and rate until the end of 2014, to see which option(s) might be best for you, to see if you qualify for any premium tax subsidies or for any additional questions, please visit: JLBGHealth.com or call 1-800-800-5735

Few say they have knowledge of healthcare exchanges

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 21 Mar 2013 19:00:00 -0500

One of the major problems that federal and state government agencies have had in recent months is getting the word out about the ways in which their new Affordable Care Act-mandated health insurance exchanges will operate, and a majority of consumers still say they know little to nothing about them.

Today, some 48 percent of people say they know nothing about their states' insurance marketplaces, which are designed to help find affordable coverage for people who don't receive it through their jobs, according to a new survey from the Kaiser Family Foundation. Another 29 percent say they only know a little about the exchanges.

Further, an additional 15 percent say they know some of the details of how their states will run these exchanges, while just 7 percent say they know "a lot" about the subject, the report said. In addition, 57 percent of those polled also said that they do not have enough information to understand how implementation of this aspect of the ACA will impact them in general.

Many states in particular have been trying to come up with plans that help residents to better understand how to sign up for and take advantage of these exchanges in general.

How might health insurance mandate affect farm industry?

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 20 Mar 2013 19:00:00 -0500

Many industries are likely to feel a bit more of a pinch financially as the Affordable Care Act's mandate for insuring workers goes into effect next year, but one might feel it more than any others.

Today, about 75 percent of farm workers nationwide don't have health insurance, the largest proportion of employees in any industry in the country, according to new research from the Kresge Foundation. In all, there are about 1.8 million of these people nationwide, and they often have significant health problems because they don't have insurance, or much in the way of access to care.

Many of these people are foreign-born, young and married, with the majority working specifically to earn money they can send back to their families, the report said. But because most are new to the country, they might not know their rights as employees, including having little knowledge of sick leave, and other benefits to which they may have access.

If farms have to start insuring their workers, it could be very difficult for them to do so. While agriculture is a massive industry nationwide, it is also often poorly regulated.

Some expect ACA compliance to cost many jobs

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 19 Mar 2013 19:00:00 -0500

Experts generally agree that there will be many consequences of the coverage mandate of the Affordable Care Act going into effect at the start of next year, and now one new projection shows it could end up costing the economy potentially hundreds of thousands of jobs.

Private-sector jobs are expected to take a significant hit upon the enactment of this aspect of the ACA, because many small businesses will likely have to cut corners to become compliant with the law, according to new data from the National Federation of Independent Business Research Foundation. In all, the private sector could lose anywhere between 146,000 and 262,000 jobs between the start of next year and 2022 as a result of this aspect of the ACA. Moreover, some 59 percent of those losses could come specifically from small businesses.

Both those numbers are up from a similar study conducted last year which showed that the economy could lose between 125,000 and 249,000 jobs by 2021, the report said.

However, experts also note that it may take a period of as long as a few years for all aspects of the impact of the ACA to become fully understood.

Many worried about ACA-related insurance hikes

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 18 Mar 2013 19:00:00 -0500

Many experts have stated that they believe the implementation of the Affordable Care Act's health insurance mandate will drive premiums for many consumers to be much higher.

Some 30 million more people will likely receive health insurance coverage as a result of the ACA's mandate, but those who are relatively healthy - typically younger Americans - will likely see their premiums rise by as much as 100 percent, and in some places even more, according to a report from Forbes. In addition, it's expected that the new influx of people who have coverage will, as a consequence, make quality care more difficult to come across, meaning that consumers may end up paying more for less coverage than they might have had access to before the mandate went into effect.

Further, many of the people who did not have insurance before were simply considered to be too ill to be covered based on preexisting conditions, the report said. Because the ACA takes away insurers' ability to deny these people coverage on the grounds that they will be too expensive, that burden will be shifted to all customers.

Implementation of the ACA has been described as uncertain, and experts say it may take years before the health insurance market stabilizes.

Small businesses looking to exploit ACA loophole

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Sun, 17 Mar 2013 19:00:00 -0500

While many workers at smaller companies may have expected that their employers would extend them healthcare coverage through the new exchanges mandated by the Affordable Care Act, many experts now note that may not happen as planned.

A large and likely growing number of small businesses nationwide seem poised to start paying their workers' healthcare costs directly instead of enrolling in what they consider to be potentially more expensive plans through the ACA's health insurance exchanges, according to a report from Kaiser Health News. The majority of those that will do so tend to have younger, healthier workers who are consequently less prone to requiring expensive care.

"What you've got is basically a loophole for the small employer to get out of the ACA requirements," Robert Laszewski, a Virginia-based consultant and former insurance executive, told the news site.

However, experts are worried about this practice because it will likely cut the pool of people covered under these exchanges, and could therefore drive prices higher, perhaps by as much as 25 percent, the report said.

It should be noted, though, that many small businesses nationwide may be eligible for federal tax breaks that can help to lessen the cost of their having to pay for their employees' insurance coverage.

Consumers can expect higher insurance costs under ACA

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 14 Mar 2013 19:00:00 -0500

With the federal requirement that all consumers be covered by some sort of health insurance looming, a percentage of Americans could see their coverage costs rise by as much as double next year, and insurers say they're worried about the effects that might have.

Millions of people could see their health insurance premiums rise anywhere between 20 percent to more than 100 percent when the Affordable Care Act's coverage mandate goes into effect next year, according to a report from the Associated Press. This will happen for a number of reasons, but the simplest is that as many as 30 million people who previously went without coverage at all will now be required to have it, and will in turn likely increase costs for insurers in general.

"We've done all the math, we've shared it with all the regulators, we've shared it with all the people in Washington that need to see it, and I think it's a big concern," Mark Bertolini, CEO of Aetna Inc., said during the company's annual meeting with investors in December, according to the news agency.

Many Americans may want to start planning to cover these far higher costs once this aspect of the ACA goes into effect, which will happen on January 1, 2014.

Will small businesses take to health insurance exchanges?

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 13 Mar 2013 19:00:00 -0500

While a number of experts in the field have said that the success or failure of the Affordable Care Act's mandated insurance exchanges will depend on many factors, perhaps the biggest is whether small businesses will wade into them as they attempt to cover employees' healthcare needs.

Data shows that while 98 percent of companies with 200 or more employees offer some sort of health insurance coverage to at least some of their employees, just 61 percent of those with between three and 199 workers do the same. Now experts say that it's on the smaller businesses to embrace the ACA exchanges as a means of helping more Americans find policies, according to a report from Bloomberg Businessweek.

Fortunately, it seems many states will begin offering incentives to these businesses when they join the marketplaces, the report said. For instance, a common one will grant businesses with fewer than 25 employees a 2014 tax credit for 50 percent of their health insurance costs.

Studies show that millions of employees of small businesses have little to no health insurance through those companies, and as such, the market in general could change dramatically if those organizations start covering their workers in this way.

Applying for ACA coverage can be difficult

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 12 Mar 2013 19:00:00 -0500

Consumers who might have been hoping for a quick and easy signup process when they want to obtain health insurance from their state's exchange will likely find that their expectations are unlikely to be met.

The Obama administration recently released a draft of the application Americans will have to fill out when signing up for the health insurance marketplaces mandated by the Affordable Care Act, and it's currently 15 pages for a three-person family, including at least 21 steps, according to a report from the Associated Press. Once an application is turned in, it will then be examined by three federal agencies including the Internal Revenue Service, to verify identity, income and citizenship, though those applying online will be able to go through that process instantly.

"This lengthy draft application will take a considerable amount of time to fill out and will be difficult for many people to be able to complete," Ron Pollack, executive director of an advocacy group supporting the health care law, told the news agency. "It does not get you to the selection of a plan."

Experts have wondered how consumers would be able to sign up for exchanges, but there are still lingering concerns about whether they'll even be ready to go by the proposed October start date.

Many states still dealing with ACA uncertainty

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 11 Mar 2013 19:00:00 -0500

Though more than half of all states nationwide opted out of running their own Affordable Care Act health insurance exchanges, it seems that at least some of those will still have some amount of involvement with them.

In all, about 17 of the states that said they wanted the federal government to run their exchanges will actually have some hand in the way they're administrated, according to a report from the Capitol Hill news site Politico. While the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services will technically set up the "partnership" exchanges, it will be up to those states to control their own insurance markets, and they will still receive federal funds to administer them.

"I can't discern any meaningful difference between a partnership where a state controls plan management and this [federal-run exchange] plan management option," Avalere Health vice president Caroline Pearson, who has been tracking exchange development across the country, told the site.

There is still a lot for both state and federal agencies to understand about the evolving world of exchanges under the ACA, and experts say it could take some time for all eventualities to become apparent to officials.

Census Bureau: Fewer Americans have employee-sponsored health insurance

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Sun, 10 Mar 2013 19:00:00 -0500

When the unexpected happens, it helps to have health insurance. Many Americans get their coverage through their employer, but according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, this share shrank dramatically in recent years.

According to the agency, in 2010, just 56.5 percent of employees had health insurance coverage through their place of work. Although this is still a majority, it was a significant from from 1997 when 64.4 percent of employees had coverage through similar means.

Much of the disparity is drawn on socio-economic lines, the report said. For example, the majority of households that had no health insurance coverage at all had income levels 138 percent below the federal poverty level, which in 2010 was an annual income of $22,113 for a family of four.

"The report highlights the prevalence of employment-based health coverage among various socio-economic groups including coverage obtained outside the workplace," said Census Bureau economist Hubert Janicki.

Meanwhile, with the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act scheduled to go into effect at the beginning of next year, some industry analysts argue the share of Americans who have employer-sponsored health care could shrink even more, should many companies opt out of coverage options.

Insurers trying to increase rates ahead of ACA mandate

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 07 Mar 2013 18:00:00 -0600

Experts have long predicted that insurance rates would rise as a result of insurers having to cover everyone regardless of preexisting conditions and other factors, and that trend seems to already be under way in California.

Major insurers are expected to push rates significantly higher as a result of the mandates of the Affordable Care Act, and Blue Shield of California recently proposed a rate increase averaging 11.7 percent, but as high as 20 percent for some policyholders, according to a report from the San Francisco Chronicle. However, while the state insurance commissioner said such a hike is too high and would need to be revised down, such requests have been common nationwide, and will likely only continue.

"What we're seeing is advance of health reform - when, come Jan. 1, insurance companies have to take everybody - insurance companies are jacking up rates to push consumers into lower-benefit policies," Jerry Flanagan, lead staff attorney with Consumer Watchdog, told the newspaper.

Costs are expected to rise necessarily for health insurance coverage because of the larger number of higher-cost customers who will be covered by these policies. This is likely to be particularly true for younger, healthier policyholders, whose rates could skyrocket.

HHS still working toward ACA implementation

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 07 Mar 2013 18:00:00 -0600

State and federal government officials across the country have been hard at work for some time trying to get the various provisions mandated by the Affordable Care Act up and running before their projected launch in October, and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recently said it is working toward those goals.

Recently, HHS reaffirmed a number of goals for getting the nation up to speed in time for the coverage mandate to go into place early next year, including stating that it is setting "aggressive goals" to achieve readiness, according to a report from the agency. That includes having 50 percent of doctor's offices nationwide using electronic health records, and 80 percent receiving payments as an incentive for doing so by the end of the year.

EHR use has tripled since 2010, but there is still a way to go before the majority of healthcare professionals are using the technology as required by law, the report said. As such, it's unclear how ready care providers will be when the ACA's requirements take effect.

There has been lots of speculation about how ready the healthcare industry and government alike will be for the coverage mandate to go into effect, and many note that public awareness of these requirements remains somewhat low.

U.S. lawmakers proposes bill to block health insurance rate hikes

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 06 Mar 2013 18:00:00 -0600

Critics of the Affordable Care Act say that one of its major shortfalls is that it will likely lead to significant increases in health insurance premiums for those buying individual products on state exchanges, but a new bill introduced in the U.S. Congress seemingly aims to change that.

Democratic lawmakers recently came together to create the Health Insurance Rate Review Act of 2013, which would allow the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services to alter or block increases to health insurance premium rates found to be unreasonable in states where insurance regulators cannot do so, according to a report from the office of Sen. Dianne Feinstein of California, as U.S. Rep. Jan Schakowsky of Illinois introduced similar legislation. Currently, 15 states nationwide do not grant their regulators to reject or change proposed hikes.

"The bill establishes a federal fallback rate review process that grants the Secretary of Health and Human Services the authority to block or modify rate increases that are excessive, unjustified or unfairly discriminatory when the state insurance commissioner does not have or use the authority to do so," Sen. Feinstein said.

It remains unclear exactly how the ACA will affect consumers' insurance rates going forward, but experts say it will likely take some time for the industry to adjust to the new rules.

State exchanges could lead insurers to create private ones

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 06 Mar 2013 18:00:00 -0600

While there is still considerable uncertainty about the ways in which state-run health insurance exchanges will work once the coverage mandate takes effect at the start of next year, it seems that many policy providers may try to compete with those by making private marketplaces as well.

Private health insurance exchanges were initially discussed some time ago, but now are beginning to look more like they could actually come to fruition, according to a report fro Life Health Pro. In particular, it seems that many of these exchanges will be especially targeted to larger employers, and specifically those that are trying to avoid offering retired employees continued health benefits. However, some might also try to develop similar exchanges for smaller companies as well.

It's believed that small employers specifically may benefit from this because in general, they have more difficulties insuring their employees due to high costs, the report said. Today, many workers who have jobs at these smaller independent organizations may not have access to all the healthcare they may want.

The insurance industry is generally scrambling to come up with more ideas to be competitive within the new regulatory ecosystem laid out by the Affordable Care Act.

GOP lawmakers highlight ACA premium increase concerns

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 05 Mar 2013 18:00:00 -0600

Republican lawmakers in both houses of the U.S. Congress recently released a report highlighting just how costly the Affordable Care Act's coverage mandate could be for families forced as health insurance premiums rise.

There is likely to be significant increases for health insurance premiums on the private market once the ACA's mandate takes full effect on January 1, 2014, according to new data from the House Committee on Energy and Commerce Majority Staff, Senate Committee on Finance Minority Staff, and Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Minority Staff. In all, 48 states will likely see increases in the double digits, and 13 of them could see costs rise by as much as 100 percent or more. Only New York and Vermont, with heavily-regulated markets and high prices to begin with, will see little change.

The most affected by these increases will probably be people between the ages of 21 and 29 who are buying individual insurance, as some data suggests their costs could rise by as much as 203 percent in some markets across the country, the report said.

The reason prices are rising is that the ACA also states that insurers cannot deny coverage to those with preexisting conditions, and those companies therefore have to increase premiums to keep up with higher costs.

Expert says rising healthcare costs will take time to level off

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 05 Mar 2013 18:00:00 -0600

While many have projected that healthcare costs will likely continue to rise under the Affordable Care Act for some time, in the long run, it may actually do some good. However, the time it takes to get there is anyone's guess.

It seems likely that charging consumers when they seek medical care will no longer be the business model most care providers adopt, according to a report from the Triangle Business Journal. This is true even as there is a considerable amount of uncertainty about the future of healthcare pricing and how costs will be controlled.

"I believe that (the Affordable Care Act) is going to stay on the books, and I believe it is going to change over time," Brad Wilson, president and CEO of Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina said at a recent meeting of insurers, according to the news site. "I truly believe we are at the beginning of a long journey."

There is still a significant conjecture about exactly what will happen when the ACA's coverage mandate becomes law in 2014, and as a consequence, many insurers are drastically increasing premiums in the short term as a means of protecting themselves from those rising costs, exacerbated by no longer having the right to deny those with preexisting conditions.

ACA exchanges could lead to fewer choices for policyholders

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 04 Mar 2013 18:00:00 -0600

With the deadlines by which consumers have to be signed up for health insurance of some kind just months away at this point, it seems that many will actually have fewer choices for affordable care under the state-run healthcare exchanges.

As a result of clashes between insurance providers and hospitals over who will be paid and how under new healthcare laws, consumers could be caught in the middle, with fewer options when it comes to seeking care, according to a report from the Wall Street Journal. In an effort to keep premiums at affordable levels, insurance issuers will simply give policyholders fewer options for which care providers they can visit.

The reason for this is that healthcare systems which grant discounts to certain insurers will receive less on a per-person basis, but be guaranteed a larger number of patients because of the restrictions those policy issuers place on Americans, the report said.

"It makes strategic sense for us," Trevor Fetter, CEO of Tenet Healthcare, told the newspaper. "There will be a market here, and it's important for us, we believe, to participate in that market."

Experts have also noted that customers on these exchanges will likely see their costs rise if they're younger and healthier thanks to restrictions on price increases for older people.

Governments struggle to reach out to foreign-language speakers on ACA

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 04 Mar 2013 18:00:00 -0600

While efforts to reach the average American with messaging about the requirements that will be set forth by the Affordable Care Act beginning in January next year have been slow, this is particularly true among residents who don't speak English as a primary language.

Today, about 55 million people across the country speak a language other than English at home, and new data suggests that efforts to educate the general public about the ACA and its various mandates and requirements fall short when trying to reach these people specifically, according to a report from the Associated Press. That relates not only to actually educating non-English speakers, but also to simply branding the state exchange in a way that the state's large Spanish-speaking populace will understand.

"If the exchange did no targeted outreach, there could be 110,000 fewer limited-English proficient individuals enrolled [in California]," Cary Sanders, director of policy analysis for California Pan-Ethnic Health Network - a multicultural health advocacy group which conducted the study with the UCLA Center for Health Policy Research and the University of California, Berkeley Labor Center - told the news agency.

Many state exchanges have massive outreach budgets, but some fear efforts to educate residents about what's required of them will fall short before federally-mandated sign-up and coverage deadlines.

Small businesses could benefit from ACA, but uncertainty looms

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Sun, 03 Mar 2013 18:00:00 -0600

Today, millions of Americans who work for small businesses may not have health insurance of their own and as a consequence could be in a vulnerable position, but while some experts believe that those people specifically might benefit from the Affordable Care Act's insurance mandate, it's important to note that lots of uncertainty still remains.

Under the ACA, small businesses with fewer than 25 employees who make less than $50,000 per year on average could be in line to see significant tax breaks when they buy coverage through their state's health insurance exchange marketplace, according to a report from the Des Moines Register. Those credits could be worth up to half of insurance costs over two years, but many are worried these exchanges may not be ready before their projected October start dates.

About one-third of uninsured people are currently working at businesses with between two and nine employees, and officials are hurrying to get the exchanges up and running on schedule so that people and businesses alike can enroll ahead of the mandate going into effect, the report said.

Another problem with rolling out the healthcare exchanges is that many states have found public awareness of them remains low, meaning some may not be covered by the deadline simply because they don't know.

States struggling with ACA exchange outreach

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Sun, 03 Mar 2013 18:00:00 -0600

The deadline by which all Americans will be required to have health insurance coverage of some kind is looming, but it seems that many states are lagging behind in efforts to both set them up and alert residents to their existence.

Many state officials are just now beginning to start grassroots efforts to educate the general public, organizations, and more about the existence of the healthcare exchanges that they hope to launch by October, according to a report from HealthyCal. In general many have found that people don't know not only that these exchanges are going to exist, but that they will be required to have coverage in general starting on January 1, 2014.

"Do we work with churches?" Elliott Robinson, Monterey County (California) director of social and employment services, told the site. "How can we best work with small businesses? Do we go through the Chamber of Commerce? Can I get all of the 7-11s and all of the McDonalds to tell their employees about these programs? We are very concerned about it. We will be building it as we go and it's going to take a village."

Consumers who are not covered either through their own insurance or through their employers will likely face significant penalties for doing so, including fines.

Some spouses could lose coverage under ACA

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 28 Feb 2013 18:00:00 -0600

Rising health insurance premium costs are likely to be a fact of life when the coverage mandate of the Affordable Care Act goes into effect, and it might prompt some companies to dramatically retool the way in which they extend care to workers' spouses.

Experts say that it seems likely there will be a wave of employers changing the ways in which they provide their workers with health insurance once the new healthcare laws go into effect as a means of better protecting their bottom lines, and that might mean that they no longer cover employees' spouses at all, according to a report from Investor's Business Daily. Further, it's likely that more companies will also take this step once they see the full cost the ACA has for them specifically.

That in turn will likely lead workers to wade into state healthcare exchanges to cover their spouses' health insurance needs, the report said. This could create more financial strain for many families across the country.

The ways in which all aspects of healthcare reform will affect companies and consumers alike is not totally clear, but experts believe things will become illuminated once they go into effect.

Fewer consumers receiving health insurance from employers

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 28 Feb 2013 18:00:00 -0600

Millions of Americans can count on their employers to provide them with health insurance, but that number is dwindling.

In 2012, only 44.5 percent of Americans received health insurance from their companies, down slightly from the numbers seen the year before, and appreciably from the 49.2 percent as recently as 2008, according to new data from a Gallup poll. Meanwhile, the number of people who receive coverage in other ways, or are simply going without insurance, is growing commensurately.

For instance, 25.6 percent of those polled said they're now covered by government plans, up from 25.2 percent in 2011 and 23.4 percent in 2008, the report said. Meanwhile, the number of people who say they're relying on some other type of coverage now stands at just 11.1 percent, down slightly from the levels seen in 2011 and four years prior. However, 16.9 percent say they're now entirely uninsured, up from 14.8 percent in 2008, but down slightly from the year before.

Once the coverage mandate of the Affordable Care Act goes into place on January 1, 2014, consumers will have to find their own health insurance policies, which may place significant financial strain on some families,

Availability of health care providers a main concern going into 2014

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 27 Feb 2013 18:00:00 -0600

Many professionals in the health care field are concerned about the surge of patients who will flood their offices once the Affordable Care Act is in full affect.

Doctors have already reported not having enough time to see patients immediately, and with a higher demand for health care, offices are expected to fill quickly, leaving many without appointments or prompt care. Further expansion of the Medicare program will also add to the business of offices, which has lead to a need for loosened regulations for health care employment.

"We're about to add about 30 million people to our health insurance system and there needs to be someone available to see them," Angela Golden, president of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners told the Washington Post.

She went on to note that nurse practitioners could take on a higher role in the field, but practice laws will need to be modified for this to be done.

"There are so many people who are going to need this care," she continued. "And we have a proven track record of providing this care, and doing it very well."

While this may be a solution for the higher demand for care, many more consumers continue to express concern for the cost of coverage.

Study shows split between ObamaCare approval

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 27 Feb 2013 18:00:00 -0600

A new poll revealed that for the first time, the number of respondents who approved of the health care bill was higher than those who disapprove.

According to results from the Pew Research Center for the People and the Press found that 47 percent of those surveyed approved of the Affordable Care Act, while 45 percent were against the law to be implemented next year. Additionally, 8 percent said they were unsure of their opinion.

In previous studies, the number of Americans polled who disapproved outweighed those who were fond of the act. Despite what many call an insignificant gain of supporters, The Minnesota Post noted that the amount of those who neither approve or disapprove were above 50 percent or below 40 percent.

In the three previous reports, the percentage of disapproval gained with each new report, growing from 44 percent to 48 percent between April 2010 and January 2011. Some say the outcome of the election likely played a role in the change in the most recent Pew survey.

Those who don't have an individual health insurance policy are urged to seek coverage to avoid having to pay for medical treatment and care out of their own pocket.

Ordering medication online produces less errors

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 27 Feb 2013 18:00:00 -0600

While medical professionals place a focus on providing accurate and quality care to patients, mistakes can happen when ordering and distributing medication. Results from a new report revealed that by using a computerized provider order entry (CPOE), the chances of making a medication error was reduced by 48 percent.

According to the study published in the Journal of the American Medical Informatics Association, around 17.4 million errors were prevented in 2008, but it has not been determined if CPOE systems reduced direct harm for patients. Additional data found that 1.76 billion medications ordered by hospitals were ordered through the technology.

Despite news of this improvement, only 34 percent of acute-care hospitals utilized CPOE systems. More medical providers may push for these systems in the future to improve their c are offered to patients. Should all hospitals use CPOE and uphold a 60 percent implementation rate, around 51 million errors could be eliminated annually.

Further research is expected to be conducted for data from recent years, as other innovations may also prevent medication errors.

Small business owners fear Affordable Care Act

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 27 Feb 2013 18:00:00 -0600

It wouldn't be fair to say that business owners don't want more Americans to have the opportunity to purchase affordable health insurance plans, but the Affordable Care Act could prevent many small business owners from providing additional benefits to their employees.

Business owners will be faced with new health insurance taxes with the start of the health care law next year, which is expected to raise $87 billion before 2020. Many policymakers are working to benefit business owners by repealing the tax assessed on insurance companies under the federal law. Higher taxes and overall expenses could cause employers to reduce programs that otherwise help employees seek higher degrees and provide other financial assistance.

Additionally, more individuals who purchase health insurance plans for their family could see costs for coverage rise up to $500 annually, according to the National Federal of Independent Businesses.

Previous repeals have failed to pass in Congress, including the excise tax on medical devices that was presented by the House of Representatives for approval. This will now go into affect this year after the Senate failed to address the component of the Affordable Care Act.

Who benefits and loses out with ObamaCare

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 27 Feb 2013 18:00:00 -0600

Many health care professionals have expressed concern regarding the Affordable Care Act, as each day brings the country closer to the program which is set to start in 2014. While business owners have expressed concern, FoxNews reported that there are some industries that will benefit from the law.

With the start of ObamaCare, more hospitals and physicians will likely begin using electronic medical records now that reported have found that they are fairly beneficial. One main provision of the act is implementation of electronic medical records after much lobbying took place between 2008 and last year.

Those in the pharmaceutical and insurance industry are also predicted to benefit from a mandate included in the act that offsets coverage standards set. Rising premiums seen by Americans with a private health insurance plan indicate that insurance providers will still make a significant amount of money, despite rising taxes felt by many nationwide.

Medicare and Medicaid patients will continue to seek medical attention, but in some states, they are hesitant to accept patients enrolled in these federal programs.

Technology varies in health care systems

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 27 Feb 2013 18:00:00 -0600

While many young health care professionals have taken a liking toward the use of technology in the medical field, many seasoned professionals aren't quite as open to their use. A new study found that 70 percent of studies on the value of health IT were positive.

After reviewing 33 studies, a new report out in the Journal of the American Medical Informatics Association revealed that electronic health records, computerized provider entry systems, medication management systems and immunization information systems were most reported on. Institutional information systems, disease management systems, and clinical documentation systems were also of interest.

The majority of papers, 23 of the 33, reported positive reports regarding economic stature, meanwhile eight were considered inconclusive and two were negative.

"There's a gross under training in the health care informatics field for people who can implement these systems and train clinicians," according to Francis Lau, an author of a paper reviewed said to InformationWeek Healthcare. "If you're going to rely on clinicians to learn all the advanced features of these systems, that's not going to happen, because that's not their role."

More job opportunities will likely be created in the near future to help increase implementation of IT in health care, with hopes of lowering costs for professionals and patients alike.

Errors for diagnosis prevalent in primary care

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 27 Feb 2013 18:00:00 -0600

When comparing medical fields and physicians offices, the highest number of diagnostic errors occurred in primary care. Some commonly missed, delayed or incorrect diagnosis included those for cancer, urinary track infections, congestive heart failure and pneumonia.

Errors can occur for a variety of reasons, but data revealed in JAMA Internal Medicine indicated that these errors frequently occur because of time constraints. However, the authors said they were hopeful that modifications to the way health care is delivered could improve these figures.

"Most process breakdowns were related tot he clinical encounter, wherein practitioners are almost always pressed for time to make decisions," according to the report. "With the current emphasis on patient-centered medical homes that facilitate team-based care, patients might be able to access or interact with their practitioners more effectively."

The amount of time physicians spend with their patients directly could decrease once the demand for health care rises, as expected with the introduction of the Affordable Care Act next year.

Alternative medicine could reduce costs associated with health care

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 27 Feb 2013 18:00:00 -0600

Results from a new study show that including alternative medicine, such as chiropractic, could slow health care costs that have been steadily rising.

Data from the report shows that consumers spend a significant amount on these services. Health insurance providers who currently offer coverage for CAMs could miss out should they eliminate it from their plans, and doing so would reportedly save little for private or public insurance providers.

Despite rising popularity in recent years, jumping from 11.5 million in 2002 to 11.9 million in 2008, information from the study completed by Matthew Davis revealed that total visits to chiropractors and other alternative medicine providers fell 3 percent in the same time period.

"As health care policymakers, payers and other stakeholders attempt to reduce waste in health care systems, they should recognize that excluding currently covered complementary and alternative medicine services would, at best, produce only meager cost savings," said Davis.

As many consumers aim to spend less on health care, seeking out an affordable health insurance plan is on the agenda, as the Affordable Care Act will not be implemented until 2014.

HHS provides $300 million to states to lower healthcare costs

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 26 Feb 2013 18:00:00 -0600

As part of its State Innovation Model awards, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced it is providing several states with $300 million, which will be used to help healthcare providers offer the best care possible, while also aiding in the reduction of consumer health costs.

In this latest round of funds being provided to states, Arkansas, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Oregon and Vermont will receive the money. Each of these states will use funds to multi-payer payment and service delivery models.

"As a former governor, I understand the real sense of urgency that states feel to improve the health of their populations while also reducing total health care costs, and it's critical that the many elements of health care in each state ... work together," said HHS secretary Kathleen Sebelius.

In addition to these awards, the agency revealed a new report will soon be released, "Medicaid Moving Forward," which details its goals in helping states and providers in further lowering health costs and providing improved services through programs such as the Childrens' Health Insurance Program.

While the HHS and a number of states are doing their parts to ensure affordable healthcare for consumers nationwide, those seeking out health insurance plans should still do their part to find the right policies for them. This may include finding coverage the supports consumers' needs and at a low price. Searching for affordable health insurance online is often an ideal place to start this search;

ObamaCare may be responsible for rise in insurance costs

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Sun, 24 Feb 2013 18:00:00 -0600

Many Americans seek out an affordable health insurance plan, but those who are counting on ObamaCare to provide relief may be surprised to hear average premiums could rise as much as 50 percent for those who have a policy through established insurance providers.

According to an article from Fox News, the establishment of ObamaCare will require regular providers to include coverage for prescription drugs, mental health and maternity, but automatic inclusion of these will cause the cost of basic protection to rise. The report noted that healthy young adults, who often see the best premiums for health insurance plans, could see annual gains between $1,600 to $2,000 for coverage.

New limits on how much older consumers, who are more likely to use their health insurance plan, will also be set, and while this makes health care more affordable for some, a larger majority could be hit with higher prices.

The Congressional Budget Office estimated that premiums could jump up to 13 percent come 2016 with the introduction of comprehensive care.

Those in need of an affordable health insurance plan are urged to compare quotes online and find the best coverage for their current needs. Individual health insurance plans can be modified over time, as age and health will affect rates offered by insurers.

Study shows health care quotes often not accurate

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 18 Feb 2013 18:00:00 -0600

For many consumers looking for an affordable health insurance plan, online quotes can be helpful in comparing prices. However, results from a new study show that 80 percent of policies purchased are higher than originally quoted.

According to the study conducted by HealthPocket, health insurance providers increased monthly coverage costs for 18 percent of those who expressed interest in their plans, though some states were more responsible for the change in quotes.

In Pennsylvania, 32 percent of applicants reported raised premiums, while Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Vermont, and Washington posted no increases.

"Consumers cannot objectively compare health insurance premiums prior to application because insurers base their initial rates on the healthiest applicants, and for many these rates would not apply," said Kev Coleman, head of research & data at HealthPocket. "When insurers wait until an application is reviewed to reveal the true monthly premium, it is impossible for consumers to know what health insurance plan is the least expensive for their circumstances."

While affordability is important when investing in health insurance, it is crucial for consumers to compare terms and conditions as not doing so could lead to additional out-of-pocket expenses anyway.

Majority of Oregon residents to have health care

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 14 Feb 2013 18:00:00 -0600

Results from a recent study predicts that around 95 percent of residents in Oregon will have health care by 2016 through a federally funded program, Medicaid or through their employer.

According to the study completed by the Office of Health Policy and Research, around 240,000 residents of the state will obtain health care through Oregon Health Plan as newly eligible candidates. In addition, nearly 20,000 who are eligible but have yet to enroll are expected to over the next three years.

When it comes to financial benefits, the study revealed Oregon will spend $591 million in funds but the economy is expected to post significant improvements to offset these higher expenses, saving $32 million in funds. Researchers also found that more widespread access to insurance will improve the lives of many while also saving on expenses. Further information revealed that by providing Medicaid to more Americans, the death rate could significantly decline.

Those who are without a family health insurance plan are urged to invest in one for the sake of their personal finances and their overall well-being. Consumers can seek out a health insurance quote online or by contacting a provider directly.

Little evidence found for link between readmission rates and deaths

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 12 Feb 2013 18:00:00 -0600

After reviewing medical records and hospital data, a new report revealed researchers found no evidence that readmission rates for hospitals were connected to mortality rates. The issues studied included patients who were hospitalized for heart failure, heart attacks and pneumonia.

According to results, there was no correlation found for those who were treated for pneumonia or heart attacks, though there was a weak association between readmissions and deaths caused by heart failure.

The study, completed by a team of researchers including Dr. Harlan Krumholz of Yale University, noted that many researchers believe hospitals that posted low mortality rates may have increased readmission rates because those who fall ill again or fail to benefit from treatment are often later readmitted while those who died from one of the three measured reasons for admission obviously don't return.

"These findings should allay concerns that institutions with good performance on risk-standardized mortality rates will necessarily be identified as poor performers on their risk-standardized readmission rates," according to the report."

Those who suffer from heart attacks, fall sick to pneumonia or experience heart failure may be aware of the high costs associated with emergency care. For many, being readmitted means receiving another medical bill, though investing in an affordable health insurance plan can help offset expenses for hospital visits.

Pricing for same surgeries can vary greatly, cost important

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 12 Feb 2013 18:00:00 -0600

For many Americans who need to undergo a hip replacement, having the right health insurance plan can reduce costs associated with the diagnosis, procedure and the recovery. However, a new report from the Journal of American Medical Association revealed that pricing information can be hard to gather and quotes can be dramatically different.

According to the the price transparency study, which is said to be similar to the Health care Blue Book, costs associated with diagnostic tests, inpatient and outpatient surgeries as well as CT and MRI scans can differ by up to 10 times the lowest expense for the same treatment. In addition, JAMA noted that hospitals specifically tend to lack pricing transparency the most.

"Healthcare Blue Book helps our employer clients understand the range of prices in their market through online and mobile tools," says Dr. Jeff Rice, CEO of Healthcare Blue Book. "Consumers can save over 50 percent on their care, equaling hundreds and even thousands of dollars of savings - without any difference in quality."

Having the right type of family health insurance policy can help minimize out-of-pocket costs, while using available resources to compare prices for hip replacement procedures is also important.

Mobile healthcare slow to catch on

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 11 Feb 2013 18:00:00 -0600

While having access to medical records on the go can improve convenience for both patients and providers, a new study revealed less than a quarter of health care providers consider it beneficial.

In a study conducted by Level 3 Communications, just 17 percent of CIOs and senior IT executives credited mHealth with having a significant impact on the industry as a whole. Despite some obvious pros to the system, it may take professionals who have been practicing for many years to catch onto the technology, while younger health care professionals may take to it quickly, seeing the benefits and improvements.

Additionally, results revealed that telehealth is considered to be a growing trend in the field, with 67 percent of organizations reporting as users.

Should more health care providers grow accustomed to using mHealth, costs associated with the medical field could be positively influenced, potentially offsetting rising costs reported throughout 2012 and the start of 2013.

Another way patients can lower their medical expenses is to invest in an affordable health insurance plan. Doing so doesn't have to be complicated, with many providers offering a health insurance quote online or over the phone.

Medical professionals more confident in industry

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Sun, 10 Feb 2013 18:00:00 -0600

While much of the headlines regarding health care revolve around the rising cost for health care and individual health insurance plans, a new report found that health care professionals were more confident in the field and the overall economy during the final quarter of 2012.

Data from the Randstad Healthcare Employee Confidence Index revealed that 58 percent of those surveyed are optimistic about finding a job in 2013, up from 55 percent who said the same in the third quarter of 2012. As for those who were already employed, 62 percent of health care workers reported being confident in their company's future, a slight decline from the previous quarter.

In addition, the number of health care employees who believed there were more job opportunities rose nine percentage points to 22 percent in the fourth quarter of 2012, up from 13 percent who said the same in the quarter before.

"The healthcare employment market has exhibited strong growth in the past months, adding 23,000 jobs in January and rising 320,000 over the year," said Steve McMahan, executive vice president of Randstad U.S. Professionals. "The long-term outlook for the industry is equally as promising. Specifically, physicians in urgent care and those with specialization in anti-aging medicine are in high demand, as are registered nurses in both permanent and temporary positions."

Adding physical therapy to urgent care facilities could reduce health care costs

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Sun, 10 Feb 2013 18:00:00 -0600

Many patients who lack an individual health insurance plan rely on urgent care facilities for care, while even those with a health insurance policy can benefit from services offered in these clinics. A new study found that providing physical therapy for walk-in patients could be beneficial in many ways.

According to the study completed by the San Antonio University Health System, by providing this additional service to those who need it, later treatment was less necessary and fewer tests were required. When looking at medical costs, charges for patients who received the extra therapy were around $1,500 less than expenses paid by patients who didn't receive physical therapy. Additionally, the study found that walk-in patients were less likely to have an MRI or a CT-scan and also had fewer X-rays.

"From the time they'd see the primary care physician to the time they got physical therapy, sometimes two or three months would pass," Amit Mehta, director of ambulatory services at University Health System told the San Antonio Business Journal. "A lot of these patients, who are really acute with new back pain, now are developing a chronic condition which is harder to treat, and takes longer to treat."

While having an adequate family health insurance plan can help offset costs associated with physical therapy, implementing this treatment in urgent care facilities could reduce additional expenses and patient recovery time.

Baby Boomer generation not healthy but living longer

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 06 Feb 2013 18:00:00 -0600

With major improvements on the technology forefront, the medical field has seen major advancements and longer life expectancies in many generations including the Baby Boomers. However, a new study revealed that those brown between 1946 and 1964 were more likely to be less healthy.

According to research recently published in JAMA Internal Medicine, Baby Boomers were more likely to have high cholesterol, high blood pressure and diabetes than previous generations. In addition, the report noted they were also more prone to obesity and were more resistant to exercising on a regular basis. Authors did say they were less likely to experience a heart attack or have emphysema, while fewer members of this generation smoke cigarettes.

When looking at spending on health care, care for those who are obese added up to $147 billion while diabetes costs around $177 billion, as revealed by information from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Increased health problems also lead to higher costs for care in general.

"Despite their longer life expectancy over previous generations, U.S. baby boomers have higher rates of chronic disease, more disability and lower self-rate health than members of the previous generation at the same age," according to study authors.

One way baby boomers can offset higher expenses associated with health care problems is to be more active and make healthy decisions, while investing in an individual health insurance plan can lower costs of seeking treatment and medications.

Confident, active patients help cut costs for health care

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 06 Feb 2013 18:00:00 -0600

Partaking in healthy activities and behaviors can be preventative for many, but a new study found that patients who are more active in their treatment options and those that are confident in their health care spend less on care.

Results from a study conduced by researchers at the University of Oregon found that those with knowledge and confidence are more active and generally see better outcomes thanks to more engagement. Of those who were less actively engaged, expenses including inpatient, outpatient, primary, special care and medication were 8 percent higher compared to those who were actively engaged.

According to the report, around 46 percent of patients were in the highest level of activation level, and the least engaged were said to be at a disadvantage and were less likely to be directly involved in their individual health insurance plan.

Prompting patients to pay closer attention to the terms and conditions of their health insurance plans could help eliminate unnecessary costs associated with health care while communicating with professionals in the industry could also improve care provided in addition to limiting costs.

Health care research threatened by budget cuts

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 05 Feb 2013 18:00:00 -0600

Results from health care studies help the industry immensely, and without them, it would be hard for medical professionals to provide the best care possible. A new report revealed that there could be a $1.6 billion cut in the budget for the National Institutes of Health. This could affect the widespread and used research for AIDS, cancer, heart disease and other medical conditions.

According to consumer advocates and science research, NIH provides around 402,000 jobs and generate $57.8 billion for the economy. Some states including California, New York, Massachusetts and Pennsylvania may be most affected. In California, around 3,028 positions will be lost, while the other three will lose near 1,500 jobs. This would reduce economic activity by around $3 billion.

"A lot of companies manufacture equipment they sell to researchers," said Sue Nelson, vice president for federal advocacy at the American Heart Association. "A research lab is like a small business. We employ everyone from the highest level researchers to persons who clean the test tubes. And then we all go out for lunch and buy from out corner lunch stand. So when a lab gets cut, it's like closing down a small business, and that's what's happening all across the country."

Having up-to-date research also helps health insurance providers design plans for consumers looking to make the investment of family health insurance plans.

Higher costs may be why Caesarean deliveries

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 05 Feb 2013 18:00:00 -0600

For many consumers, welcoming a new member to the family means increasing the health insurance plan to avoid paying for regular doctor appointments that are necessary for young children. A new study revealed that stand-alone birth centers may be a more affordable option, as they can reportedly drastically lower the number of unnecessary Caesarean operations performed on healthy women giving birth.

According to the report published in the National Birth Center Study ll, women who were eligible to give birth at a center, around 85 percent of women, had a lower rate for C-section births than hospitals with low-risk pregnancies where they are performed. The national rate is reportedly around 33 percent. Around 16 percent of women transferred to a hospital when giving birth. C-sections typically require longer downtime for the mother, in addition to costing more.

Higher costs may be why Caesarean deliveries less popular

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 05 Feb 2013 18:00:00 -0600

"If you're looking at facility costs alone, it's a huge savings," said Linda Cole, a certified nurse-midwife and president of the American Association of Birth Centers.

She went onto note that many expenses associated with Cesarean operations aren't covered by hospitals, especially when they are considered unnecessary.

Those looking to welcome a child to the family can look into the costs and coverage available for delivery options, but having a proper health insurance plan can make all the difference.

Parents more concerned with cold season more than past years

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 04 Feb 2013 18:00:00 -0600

When the cold season arrives, many parents become more cautious of ways to prevent the spreading of germs especially when it comes to their children. A new survey revealed that 70 percent of parents polled reported being concerned about getting sick during this year's cough and cold season, and the majority at 56 percent said they were more concerned this year than in previous seasons.

Data from a Toluna Quick Survey found that 61 percent of respondents said they knew at least three people who had become sick with a cold or the flew so far. While 49 percent said work was where the sickness was contracted, 47 percent said schools were responsible and other spaces where the public convenes such as the grocery store or the gym.

"Colds are most infectious during the first two to four days people are infected," said Dr. Tanner, founder and principal of Antimicrobial Test Laboratories, LLC. "With cough and cold season in full-swing this year, regular hand washing is an effective way to ensure germ prevention and combat the spread of viruses."

While getting a doctor's appointment right away can be more difficult in a heightened season for illnesses, having an adequate family health insurance plan can prevent parents from paying additional funds out-of-pocket.

Not many opt to participate in medical research, says study

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Sun, 03 Feb 2013 18:00:00 -0600

While there may be many benefits from participating in a study, such as free diagnosis or medical treatment, results from a recent study found that the amount of consumers who use the opportunity is low.

According to the study conducted by the University of Michigan found that 11 percent of all adults and just 5 percent of children have reported being a participant in a medical research study. However, 64 percent of those surveyed said they were aware of opportunities and only 12 percent said they knew their children would qualify as participants in some research.

"Researchers and institutions need to spread the word more effectively, to help people know about research opportunities that are a good fit for them," said Dr. Matthew Davis, a professor at University of Michigan's Medical School. "When institutions reach out to communities to hear and understand their needs, and then respond with resources, ideas and opportunities, that's what we call engagement in research."

This may be a good option for those who lack an individual health insurance policy, though there are many affordable coverage options available. Those seeking out health insurance for themselves or their family can get a health insurance quote online or by contacting potential providers and asking about rates and discounts.

Study suggests decrease in quality care for seniors who switch Medicare plans

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Sun, 03 Feb 2013 18:00:00 -0600

Seniors benefit in many ways from Medicare programs, though a new study found that many who switch from a private, HMO-style Medicare plan to a traditional Medicare plan saw an increase in health issues.

According to the report completed by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, more than 13 million Americans are enrolled in these private programs, and that number has been on the rise because of low premiums, which are often notably less expensive than traditional Medicare and may sometimes offer additional benefits.

Using information from 2007, researchers determined that those who left private plans used an average of $1,021 in medical care each month compared to the control group Medicare that use $710 in the same time.

Additional studies have found that those with Medicare Advantage plans were less likely to be sent to the emergency room.

"Private Medicare Advantage plans work for people when they are relatively well, but fall short of traditional Medicare when they are sick or disabled," said Judith Stein, executive director for Medicare Advocacy. "This is particularly true for our clients with long-term and chronic conditions, many of whom also have low incomes."

She went on to note that many of these patients are denied specialized care or lose coverage beforehand. Americans in need of a proper coverage can invest in an individual health insurance plan, though seniors often see higher priced premiums.

Physicians paid less by Medicaid patients in South Dakota

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 31 Jan 2013 18:00:00 -0600

With health care costs on the rise, more physicians nationwide have been reluctant to see a surplus of Medicare and Medicaid patients, as refunds for services have been lackluster. Results from a new study found that South Dakota was underfunded in 2012, by around $30 per patient each day. Other research released by the American Health Care Association found that the national average was $22.34 per Medicaid patient per day.

Many who lack a family health insurance plan are looking forward to coverage that will be available when the Affordable Care Act comes into play, though 57 percent of skilled nursing facility residents in South Dakota rely on the government program to pay for their medical expenses. The report noted that underpayments to care providers is expected to be around $7 billion nationwide for 2012.

"This study sheds a bright light on the ongoing struggle to continue to provide the care that our elderly and disabled South Dakota citizens expect and deserve," said

Single-step test developed for DNA diseases

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 31 Jan 2013 18:00:00 -0600

In an effort to improve upon rapid next-generation sequencing tests, researchers have developed a one-stop gene tests for mitochondrial diseases. The study, completed by The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, found a sequencing technique that analyzes all the protein-coding DNA located in the mitochondrial genome and nuclear genes.

"A first step in developing treatments for a disease is to understand its precise cause," said Dr. Marni Falk, director and attending physician in the Mitochondrial-Genetic Disease Clinic at the hospital. "We have developed a one-step, off-the-shelf tool that analyzes both nuclear and mitochondrial DNA to help evaluate the genetic cause of suspected mitochondrial disease."

This type of disease is considerably rare and it hasn't been recognized for very long, being first noticed in the 1980s. Despite there only being hundreds of unknown cases, the damages associated with the disease may be hard to recognize without detection by a medical professional.

Those who experience symptoms characteristic of mitochondrial diseases are urged to seek medical attention immediately, however those without a proper individual health insurance may find making an appointment or other forms of treatment too expensive.

Physicians paid less by Medicaid patients in South Dakota

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 30 Jan 2013 18:00:00 -0600

"This study sheds a bright light on the ongoing struggle to continue to provide the care that our elderly and disabled South Dakota citizens expect and deserve," said Mark B. Deak, executive director of South Dakota Health Care Association.

Americans who currently lack coverage are urged to invest in some type of affordable health insurance, as costs associated with not having protection can be high.

Michigan physicians to accept additional Medicaid patients

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 29 Jan 2013 18:00:00 -0600

For some Americans without a family health insurance plan, getting in to see a doctor can be difficult when it comes to affording costs associated with medical treatment. While many have taken advantage of Medicaid, many doctors have turned away from accepting this with lower refunds for care provided.

However, a new report from the Center for Healthcare Research and Transformation found that 81 percent of primary care physicians in Michigan expect they will be able to add those who receive insurance through the Affordable Care Act to their roster. Additionally, 90 percent of those who responded that way said they expect to have room for Medicaid patients.

Diabetic patients to be cautious of cholesterol and blood pressure

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 29 Jan 2013 18:00:00 -0600

While those with diabetes remain on top of their blood sugar, a new study found that recognizing blood pressure and cholesterol targets is more important when looking to prevent diabetes-related heart disease.

According to the research conducted by Kaiser Permanente, those adults with diabetes are two to four times more likely than those without the disease to develop cardiovascular issues. Heart attack and stroke are both common reasons for death in diabetics, so preventing heart disease should be priority for those diagnosed.

EMRs may improve patient care

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 28 Jan 2013 18:00:00 -0600

Electronic medical records have been viewed by many medical professionals as an innovative way to improve record-keeping while also helping to reduce administrative costs seen throughout the industry. Additionally, results from a new report found that one in five providers reported that use of an EMR contributed to the saving of one or more patients.

Perhaps more importantly, 60 percent of participants said that the technology improved the quality care they were able to provide in these situations. Thirty-four percent said EMRs prevented serious or even life-threatening errors that may have otherwise been made using traditional paperwork.

"One in five of our users say they've saved a life thanks to our free EMR - and it adds up when you consider we have 56 million patients currently under care," said Ryan Howard , CEO of Practice Fusion. "The positive impact of EMR technology done right is already clear in our numbers. Especially now, at a time where the legacy EMR sector is being criticized for not delivering cost savings or quality improvement, these results prove that Practice Fusion stands apart."

Costs have continued to be a major concern for patients and professionals alike, but consumers can prevent paying out-of-pocket for medical expenses by investing in a quality health insurance plan.

Michigan physicians to accept additional Medicaid patients

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 28 Jan 2013 18:00:00 -0600

"We know from research in other states that providing Medicaid coverage improves the physical and mental health of those who get that coverage compared to those who are uninsured," said Dr. Matthew Davis, an associate professor of pediatrics and internal medicine at the University of Michigan Medical School. "A key question is: will enough primary care providers be available to meet the medical needs of people with new coverage?"

Those that anticipate eligibility for federally-funded programs may benefit from investing in an affordable health insurance plan in the meantime, as widespread coverage may not be available until mid-2014.

Diabetic patients to be cautious of cholesterol and blood pressure

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 28 Jan 2013 18:00:00 -0600

"People with diabetes are often focused on controlling their blood sugar, but our study found that controlling blood pressure and cholesterol is even more important in preventing heart disease," said Dr. Greg Nichols lead author of the study and senior investigator with the Kaiser Permanente Center for Health Research. "This doesn't mean that people with diabetes should ignore their blood-sugar levels."

Despite needing to place a stronger emphasis on blood pressure and cholesterol levels, the source noted those with diabetes should still have regular tests performed by medical professionals and still monitor their blood glucose closely.

If other symptoms associated with cardiovascular disease become apparent, patients are urged to seek medical attention, though some may avoid doing so if they lack individual health care. Investing in an affordable health insurance plan can help eliminate extra costs associated with health care.

More adults tracking health

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Sun, 27 Jan 2013 18:00:00 -0600

While practicing healthy behavior is important, results from a new study found that more Americans who track their well-being reported making changes to their way of viewing their health.

According to the survey conducted by the Pew Research Center's Internet & American Life Project, 69 percent of adults said they track at least one health indicator, signifying maintaining good health is important. Sixty percent said they track their exercise, diet and weight, while 33 percent reported being more aware of their blood pressure, sleep patterns, headaches and other symptoms of health troubles.

However, the way adults are tracking these may not always be reliable, with almost half saying they kept up with these factors in their head compared to 34 percent who did so in a notebook or journal. Regardless, doing this can help identify troubling symptoms ahead of time, allowing those in need of medical treatment to seek it ought before a condition becomes more severe.

Forty-six percent of those who tracked their behaviors said it has altered their approach to staying healthy, while 40 percent said it prompted them to ask doctors about potential challenges. Consumers should be confident when seeking medical attention, though this may be challenging for those who lack an affordable health insurance plan.

CER to improve individualized health care

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 24 Jan 2013 18:00:00 -0600

Many consumers who have previously gone without a health insurance plan are excited for the changes being brought by the Affordable Care Act in coming years. However, many Americans lack knowledge about the comparative effectiveness research, which works to determine what treatments, medicines and medical devices best benefit patients.

Using research from the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute, the government can better determine how $1.1 billion should be used, helping physicians better serve patients. While protecting consumers from higher medical costs is important, the study noted other health factors were reasons for research.

Quality care in New York help reduce readmission of

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 22 Jan 2013 18:00:00 -0600

Results from a new study found show that regions working with the state's

Quality care in New York helps reduce readmission of Medicare patients

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 22 Jan 2013 18:00:00 -0600

Results from a new study found show that regions working with the state's Medicare Quality Improvement Organization have reduced the rate hospital admissions and rehospitalizations.

Research done by the Journal of the American Medical Association found that New York's Upper Capital Region saw a 5.1 percent improvement for readmissions when looking at 68,000 patients enrolled in Medicare. Additionally, hospitalizations were reduced by 5.46 percent in centers that utilized QIOs. In areas that lacked QIO facilities, the figures were still reduced but by a lesser amount. Rehospitalizations dropped by 2.05 percent and a 3.17 percent decline in hospitalizations.

"While many communities are working to reduce rehospitalization rates, the communities supported by QIO efforts experienced double the rate of reduction as others," said Dr.Jane Brock, lead study author. "This study shows that a coordinated approach involving diverse stakeholders in a community - organized and spearheaded by a quality improvement expert - is a promising strategy."

Some patients who lack proper health insurance plans, which could keep them from seeking medical attention via nursing homes, home health agencies and hospitals. Those without coverage are urged to seek out an affordable health insurance plan to avoid paying for medical expenses out of their own pocket.

Americans most concerned about well-being of others

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Sun, 20 Jan 2013 18:00:00 -0600

Results from a new study found that consumers have their priorities straight when it comes to their health, as a majority of respondents said staying healthy is more important than being in a loving relationship. Research from Brodeur Partners also found that being financially secure, making a difference and caring for friends and family as priority.

"Americans care most about the people in their lives," said Andy Coville, CEO of Brodeur. "Everything else is secondary including homes, cars, money, even finding oneself. We're not a me culture: we're a my family culture."

One interesting finding was that younger baby boomers did rate their own health as being more important than caring for others. Research like this will help insurance providers determine what type of consumers are most in need of health coverage, while younger generations who have expressed concern in their personal finances will most likely seek out an affordable health insurance plans.

Those looking for coverage can get a quote for family health insurance or an individual plan online or by contacting a reliable provider directly by phone.

Americans take flu season more serious than others

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 17 Jan 2013 18:00:00 -0600

A new report indicates the United States takes flu season much more seriously than most other countries.

This year's flu season has had a major impact on the general public, and numerous government agencies are urging Americans to get vaccinated. Meanwhile, in Europe not a single government has urged its citizens to get their flu shot, CNN Health reports.

"We have 53 countries in our region that all have different recommendations based on different studies and evidence, and the depth of evidence in Europe right now is pretty limited in terms of flu vaccines," Robb Butler of the World Health Organization told the news source.

Although it's generally recommended that everyone receive a flu shot, those with certain health issues, work in crowded spaces and regularly use public transportation could benefit more.

Individuals who show symptoms of the flu are encouraged to seek medical assistance if they find they condition deteriorates rapidly. However, before getting laid up with the flu, it would be beneficial to have affordable health insurance. Consumers have the ability to compare health insurance quotes to ensure they receive the best deal and coverage for their situation.

EHRs cost effective, always room for improvement

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 16 Jan 2013 18:00:00 -0600

While many family physicians and specialty doctors have adopted use of electronic health records, a new study found the documentation can be better for both patients and medical professionals.

According to results found by Weill Cornell Medical College, measurements by EHRs on quality of care can range, by either overestimating or underestimating.

"This study reveals how challenging it is to measure quality in an electronic era," Dr. Rainu Kaushal, director of the Center for Healthcare Informatics Policy said in the report. "Many measure are accurate, but some need refinement."

An accurate measurement of quality of health is important so doctors are able to provide better care. The report noted that one EHR measurement of patients with diabetes claimed 57 percent of those tested had their cholesterol under control, compared to 37 percent recorded through a manual confirmation of wellness.

Implementation of EHRs is expected to reduce administrative costs for physicians, which could result in an overall savings for consumers. In addition to lower health care costs, Americans are urged to invest in an affordable health insurance plan so they are able to visit a doctor without concern of high medical expenses.

Combination pills affordable option in heart disease prevention

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 15 Jan 2013 18:00:00 -0600

As medical professionals and consumers are looking for cost effective treatments, a new study has found that combination medications can reduce costs without jeopardizing quality care. The study, done by University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health researchers found that a single pill could lower heart disease for Latin Americans up to 21 percent.

When developing this new technique, researchers compared the cost of treating patients with symptoms of cardiovascular disease with a pill that contained aspirin and other drugs used to lower blood pressure. Overall, the pill could reduce the risk of lifelong cardiovascular disease by 15 percent in females and 21 percent in males. The cost of the medication would equate to around $35 per quality-adjusted life year gained by those prescribed the treatment.

"Our simulation study showed that a pill that combines aspirin, a drug that lowers blood cholesterol, and three drugs that lower blood pressure, could be one of the most cost-effective health interventions to reduce heart attack, stroke and other cardiovascular health risks," said Dr. LeoneloBautista.

While this solution may not be available to patients just yet, having an adequate health insurance plan can help offset rising costs of prescriptions.

Texas study finds children lack appropriate health insurance

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 14 Jan 2013 18:00:00 -0600

For many parents, having an adequate health insurance plan can help reduce the costs of regular checkups that are characteristic throughout the first couple years of their children's lives. Data from the Childrens Medical Center in Dallas revealed that the percentage of children without health insurance in five Texas counties is double the national average.

Additionally, less children in Cooke, Denton, Grayson and Fannin counties were enrolled in Medicaid. In Fannin County, 16.3 percent of children lack coverage, and residents blame a lack of pediatric physicians is to blame and those who are in the area rarely accept Medicaid due to a decline in reimbursement.

"That's a good number of kids who don't have a place to go necessarily when they have a cold," Dr. Timothy Bray of the University of Texas told local news source KTEN. "They can't get treated because they don't have access to care that's promoted by insurance."

New parents or those who have avoided investing in health coverage because of the cost are advised to seek out an affordable health insurance plan as soon as possible. This can be done by looking at quotes online or contacting providers directly over the phone.

More physicians to utilize EHRs in 2013?

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 14 Jan 2013 18:00:00 -0600

While many medical professionals reported improved efficiency when using electronic health records, some physicians have been slow to make this transition. A new study from the Center for National Health Statistics shows more doctors will implement EHRs in 2013.

Family physicians have taken to the change more so than others, as 70 percent have reported making the switch to electronic records. The study notes EHR?adoption has doubled in the years since 2005, while the adoption rate could reach above 80 percent over the next 12 months.

Data from the report showed some states including Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Utah, Oregon, Georgia and Minnesota have higher rates of EHR use when compared to states such as Ohio, Florida, Illinois and Michigan.

Additional information found that pediatricians reported having the lowest use of EHRs, while office-based specialty professionals posted higher rates along with family physicians.

Use of EHRs? could improve productivity in the workplace while also eliminating some expenses associated with administrative work.

Rising costs of medical coverage has kept many consumers from enrolling in a health insurance plan, however, affordable health insurance options are available. Consumers are urged to compare rates along with terms and conditions for an optimal policy.

Young adults could pay more for coverage under healthcare law

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Sun, 13 Jan 2013 18:00:00 -0600

While many young adults under the age of 26 are benefiting from being able to stay on their parents' family health insurance plans, results from a new study found that the Affordable Care Act could cause coverage rates for both younger and older consumers to increase.

According to data, premiums in the nongroup market are expected to rise, on average, between 10 and 20 percent for all patients, while young, healthy individuals could see rates for coverage increase by more than 40 percent. However, the healthcare law will continue limit how much elderly consumers have to pay for health insurance.

"Higher rates for the younger population combined with low mandate penalties during the first years of the ACA implementation will result in adverse selection because younger individuals are likely to choose to not purchase coverage," noted America's Health Insurance Plan via commentary to a report from The Hill.

If young adults forego having insurance, they could find themselves paying for treatments and other services out of their pocket or relying on credit cards which could lead to financial troubles. Those seeking out an affordable health insurance plan can receive quotes for coverage online or by contacting providers directly

Teamed physicians could be solution to shortage

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 10 Jan 2013 18:00:00 -0600

While many buyers of homes for sale in Los Angeles County likely tried to close before the end of the year to receive tax benefits, those seeking affordable options may be glad to hear mortgage rates remained low throughout the first and second weeks of January.

Freddie Mac's Primary Mortgage Market Survey for the week ending January 10 showed the average rate for 30-year adjustable-rate mortgages moved up from the week before's average of 3.34 to 3.4 percent. This time last year, the average was 3.89 percent, though it is predicted to stay below 4 percent throughout 2013.

Additionally, the average rate for 15-year FRMs increased over the week, jumping slightly to 2.66 percent from 2.64 percent, but remains well below the average from this time last year of 3.16 percent.

Affordability remains important to those purchasing a home in Southern California, but current homeowners have also been refinancing their initial mortgage terms to save money. With projections for an improving economy and housing market, consumers should expect mortgage rates to rise along with home prices.

Healthcare costs could be trimmed by $2 trillion

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 09 Jan 2013 18:00:00 -0600

Reports of rising healthcare costs has many people questioning how expenses can be lowered. Results from a new study show the country could save up to $2 trillion over the next 10 years if the government intervened to better match economic growth.

The Commonwealth Fund notes that for optimal savings, government-funded programs, including Medicare and Medicaid, as well as individual health insurance providers will need to provide more cost-effective care to lower annual spending throughout the industry. Additionally, the study asks that the government determine a gross domestic product per capita as a goal for allowed increases in spending.

Doing this could limit administrative costs taken on by hospitals and physicians with private practices and eliminate Medicare pay cuts. Breaking down overall savings, states and local governments could save $242 billion, employers $189 billion and maybe most importantly, consumers would save $537 billion.

While this initiative would help lower costs on a large scale, consumers can seek out affordable health insurance options to cut the amount spent on regular doctor visits, prescription medication and emergency services.

Healthcare expenses on the rise, still historically low gains in 2011

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 08 Jan 2013 18:00:00 -0600

With news of increasing costs of medical care, many more Americans have been seeking affordable health insurance alternatives. New data from the Department of Health and Human Services show healthcare expenses accounted for 17.9 percent of the overall economy in 2011, while it totaled $2.7 trillion two years ago.

While the number seems notably high, and is considerably more than seen in other countries, the Associated Press notes the 3.9 percent increase matches expectations of economic growth in 2011. AP notes it was also the third consecutive year of historically low gains in medical costs. Additional information revealed Medicare spending jumped in 2011, however Medicaid spending slowed along with money spent on hospital care.

"Economic, income and job growth in 2011 was modest and less than might normally be expected during an economic recovery," according to the report. "This fact raises questions about whether the near future will hold the type of rebound in health spending typically seen a few years after a downturn."

With the recently passed health law requirement that allowed those under the age of 26 to remain on their parents' plans, more Americans gained coverage after being added to family health insurance plans.

Economic downfall negatively affects healthcare

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 07 Jan 2013 18:00:00 -0600

With news of economic improvements including increased job opportunities and the return of higher incomes, the end to the Great Recession should provide consumers more confidence in their personal financial situations. However, results from a healthcare study found that the recession prevented many Americans from seeking medical attention, which could result in worsened health for some.

According to data collected and combined by JAMA Internal Medicine, results from a poll conducted by Gallup showed 30 percent of Americans opted out of medical care because of cost-related factors. In addition, a separate study by Consumer Reports found that 45 percent of patients opted to skip prescriptions and medical attention due to rising health costs and worsening financial situations due to the economy.

"Although minorities bore the brunt of the recession in terms of losses in employment, income and insurance, our findings suggest that trends in use patterns were similar across race and ethnicity," noted the JAMA letter.

While the economy continues to approve, investing in an affordable health insurance plan can help offset rising medical costs, making prescription drugs and doctor's appointments less expensive.

Americans less aware of risk regarding obesity

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Sun, 06 Jan 2013 18:00:00 -0600

Results from a new poll show consumers are less knowledgeable about how being obese can influence other aspects of their health. According to results provided by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research, only 25 percent of respondents think it's possible for those overweight to also be healthy.

While figures from the government suggests two-thirds or adults and one-third of children are considered overweight or obese, the study found that half of those surveyed said their weight was fine and just 12 percent of parents consider their children overweight. This means obesity is well overlooked, which could mean less Americans are seeking medical attention for symptoms and other health issues related to being overweight.

Some risks associated with being obese or overweight include heart disease, diabetes, some types of cancer, arthritis, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

Those without an affordable health insurance plan may also avoid seeking medical attention, which could result in added medical problems that stem from being overweight. Consumers in need of an individual health insurance plan can seek quotes online or through coverage providers directly.

Regular cancer screenings necessary, rates down

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 03 Jan 2013 18:00:00 -0600

Regular screenings are a crucial preventative step, though survivors reported being screened more in comparison with the general public. Results from a new study completed by Dr Tainya Clarke and other researchers show that there has been fewer cancer screening over the last decade.

Around 69.7 percent reported getting screened for breast cancer in 2010, nearly matching the number of participants who said the same back in 1999, according to the study. The number of cancer survivors who got screened increased from 70 percent of women 40 years and older in 2000 to 75.6 percent in 2010.

"Although there is emerging evidence of overuse or misuse of cancer screening, few studies have systematically examined this across screening modalities over time," Dr. Lila Finney Rutten. "Clearly in this time of diminishing resources and increasing healthcare expenses, it is crucial to understand how to most efficiently improve the quality of healthcare delivery while reducing cost."

The rate of screenings could be lower as a result of higher medical costs, but having an adequate health insurance plan can help lower the out-of-pocket expenses associated with exams and treatments.

Color influences likelihood of taking prescription medicine

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 02 Jan 2013 18:00:00 -0600

With rising costs of healthcare expenses, some patients may opt to take a generic version of their prescription. While this provides a savings when paired with an adequate health insurance plan, a new study from Brigham and Women's Hospital shows that patients are notably more likely to seize taking their generic medication if it is a different color than a previously taken brand.

According to the results, those who saw a change in the appearance of their medication color were 27 percent less likely to refill their prescription compared to those who didn't see a modification to the color. With lower refill rates, patients may find themselves seeking additional medical attention, which could cost more in the long run.

"Changes in the physical appearance of pills may be causing some confusion among patients," according to Dr. Aaron Kesselheim, author of the study. "In talking with my patients, this issue comes up a lot. They don't understand why their pill looks different."

Those without an individual health insurance plan may find themselves paying for prescription drugs out of pocket, while those who have coverage may see a discount on drugs. Consumers can look up online quotes for health insurance, while they can also contact providers directly.

Patients more likely to take medicine if recipients of good communication

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 01 Jan 2013 18:00:00 -0600

Results from a new study titled Communication and Medication Adherence: The Diabetes Study of Northern California found that doctors can improve the chances that their patients take their prescribed medication by developing sound relationships with them and communicating effectively.

According to a survey completed by 9,377 patients, around 30 percent admitted they hadn't been taking their medication as prescribed, but this was less prevalent in those who reported having a trusting and established relationship with their doctor. The study conducted by researchers from the University of San Francisco, the San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center and the Kaiser Permanente Research Division advises doctors to improve their connection with patients to ultimately improve their health.

"By supporting doctors in developing meaningful relationships with their patients, we could help patients take better care of themselves," said Dr. Neda Ratanawongsa, lead author of the study.

While many patients understand the importance of taking medication as directed by their doctor, some may avoid picking up prescriptions, as the rising cost of healthcare has influenced these drugs. Having an affordable health insurance plan can ease concerns regarding costs associated with prescriptions, in addition to developing a trusting relationship with their doctor.

Screenings necessary to detect colon cancer early enough

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Sun, 30 Dec 2012 18:00:00 -0600

With the new year quickly approaching, many older Americans may make resolutions to take better care of themselves. This should include regular healthcare screenings. However, some may avoid having this done if they lack an affordable health insurance plan.

One thing those 50 and older should take extra precaution when it comes to visiting doctors is colorectal cancer, otherwise known as colon cancer. The American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy notes this is one or the most preventable cancers, though it can go unnoticed without a screening exam.

Additional data reveals colon cancer is the third-most commonly diagnosed cancer in both men and women, and is also the third-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the country. Results from a recent study found that the rate of prevention improved between 2003 and 2007, as 32,000 lives were saved in comparison to figures from 2002.

The ASGE says around half of diagnosed cases and deaths were prevented because patients were screened early enough, but one in three adults are not being tested.

Those without insurance coverage can obtain a health insurance quote, while enrolling in a policy can prevent consumers from having to pay for appointments and treatments out of pocket.

New scanning method provides better feedback on live tumors

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Sun, 30 Dec 2012 18:00:00 -0600

New research completed by the Johns Hopkins and international radiologists shows that a new scanning method provides real-time images showing the state of cancerous tumors. According to a report set to come out in the first 2013 issue of the medical journal Radiology, doctors will be able to tell if drugs used to kill live tumors were successful.

Doing this can prevent patients from needing additional or more severe treatments. The new scanning process was developed to address the stress that can be endured when waiting for results, and also potentially prevent cancerous tumors from growing or becoming worse. This is especially important for patients who are already in more severe stages of disease.

"Patients should not have to endure the uncertainty of waiting weeks or more to find out if their chemoembolization was successful in fighting their liver cancer," according to Dr. Jean-Francois Geschwind, a Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology professor at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine.

Cancer treatment can be expensive, and medical bills remain a primary reason consumers have high debt. To avoid falling into a financial hole or feeling unable to have regular doctor visits because of the rising costs of healthcare, finding an affordable health insurance plan is recommended.

Healthcare reform comes with new tax

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Sun, 30 Dec 2012 18:00:00 -0600

While many Americans are celebrating the future of affordable health insurance expected to arrive with the passing of the healthcare reform law, some consumers may not be aware of the health insurance tax which could be tacked on if Congress doesn't dismiss it.

Data from a congressional study shows that premiums could rise around $2,800 for those with individual health insurance plans and $6,800 for family policies over the next decade. Older Americans and those who rely on Medicare and Medicaid could feel these costs increase most, as they often struggle most to afford coverage.

In an op-ed for the South Florida Sun-Sentinel, Associated Industries of Florida president and CEO Thomas C. Feeney III said he fears the tax could also cause employers to eliminate thousands of jobs in coming years, which could hinder economic recovery that has prevailed in 2012.

Consumers may benefit from employer insurance plans. However, sometimes an individual health insurance policy can provide greater discounts. If you are in need of health coverage, you can compare quotes from insurance providers online, or contact them directly.

Improvements needed to prevent fake insurance claims and privacy breaches

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 27 Dec 2012 18:00:00 -0600

Electronic records have helped reduce some healthcare costs, and can be a more efficient way of tracking treatments and patient history. However, results from a new study show hospital computers and other medical devices found in healthcare facilities may fall victim or hacking. This could lead to issues with fake health insurance plan claims, while patient information could also be used in identity theft scams.

When looking at this issue in comparison to hacking of electronic systems in other fields, medical physician John Halamka or Harvard University, also the co-chariman of the Department of Health and Human Services health information technology standards committee, noted that security regarding healthcare is not up to speed but has been made aware and improvements will come.

Data provided by The Washington Post shows many factors attributed to privacy breaches while there has also been a lack of addressing known issues and gaps in security.

Those who have invested in affordable health insurance plans that believe a false claim has been made are advised to contact their health insurance plan provider immediately.

Regular eye exams key to detecting glaucoma early on

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 27 Dec 2012 18:00:00 -0600

Research conducted by the American Optometric Association reveals that more people could benefit from regularly seeing their eye doctor to ensure overall health and prevention of eye diseases including glaucoma.

Results from a consumer survey show that 90 percent of those questioned believe the damaging disease is preventable, while only 10 percent understand it isn't, though there are treatments that can minimize effects it has on your sight. Additionally, 72 percent of respondents said those with glaucoma experience warning signs, when in fact, an exam is the only way of finding this out.

Some patients may avoid regular eye exams for fear of the costs of doctor visits, but investing in an adequate health insurance policy can help minimize these expenses. Having an affordable health insurance plan is important, as treatment for the disease will include prescription eye drops along with other medicine. To find a coverage plan, consumers can use online resources or by speaking with a representative directly.

Those with a history of glaucoma in their family medical history and those over the age of 60 are advised to have their eyes checked more frequently to jump start treatment if needed.

Musculoskeletal conditions a financial burden for many

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 27 Dec 2012 18:00:00 -0600

Research completed by the Global Burden of Disease shows musculoskeletal conditions including chronic back pain and arthritis affect more than 1.7 million people across the globe, and also negatively influence overall health of consumers. MSK diseases are also the second largest cause of disability throughout the world, while back pain is the leading cause.

Results indicate that further action is necessary when it comes to resources provided by healthcare systems, while rising costs in the industry may keep many suffering from these conditions and relevant back pain from seeking medical attention.

"The burden of musculoskeletal reflects not only the number of people directly impacted, but also the cost of treatment and lost work income," said Doctor Kimberly Templeton , MD, president, U.S. Bone and Joint Initiative.

She went on to note that these conditions can be linked to other health conditions including diabetes, heart disease and obesity.

The first step toward preventing disease from interfering with your quality of life is to invest in a health insurance plan that offers enough coverage and affordability so you don't ignore warning signs.

Outdated healthcare systems add to rising costs

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 25 Dec 2012 18:00:00 -0600

Many federal officials are looking for ways to cut costs for consumers to improve access to healthcare and treatment options. Grants are one option, as they have helped improve conditions in many locations nationwide, including Snohomish County in Washington.

One thing that has added to rising costs in the area are when people requests emergency medical services or use available resources when they aren't actually in need. The director of the county's human services, Ken Stark, notes this frequently happens when those with drug dependencies or other behavioral issues make these requests.

"If we can engage the patient, help educate them in managing their own conditions, help them navigate the systems to get the service they really need (assuming that service is available), we should be able to increase their access to appropriate care, improve their health outcomes (reduce their periods of crisis) and save money,"Stark told local newspaper the North County Outlook.

Study results should help when making adjustments and updates to the current healthcare system, but others who use services and resources appropriately will still need affordable health insurance to offset rising costs nationwide.

Rising healthcare costs, less funding could lead to poor emergency preparedness

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Sun, 23 Dec 2012 18:00:00 -0600

A new study by the Trust for America's Health and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation reveals that cuts to state and federal programs have decreased preparedness in the event of an emergency or natural disaster.

This became apparent following Hurricane Sandy, while health insurance policyholders may not be aware of the cuts to public health funding. According to data from the report, 29 states saw less public health funding last year, while 2011 was the second year of cuts for 23 of those states. Less professionals are working in health departments also, as 45,700 jobs have been lost since 2008.

"In the past decade, there have been a series of significant health emergencies, including extreme weather events, a flu pandemic and food-borne outbreaks," said Jeffrey Levi, executive director of Trust for America's Health. "But, for some reason, as a country, we haven't learned that we need to bolster and maintain a consistent level of health emergency preparedness."

Some issues for a number of states nationwide include a lack of medication and other treatments for illnesses, such as vaccinations, for when emergencies occur.

Those who have been directly affected by the cuts from state- and nation-sponsored programs or higher healthcare costs may benefit from seeking out an affordable health care plan. To find a health insurance quote, look online or contact prospective insurers.

Rising healthcare costs may have consumers looking to professionals as an example

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 20 Dec 2012 18:00:00 -0600

While patients look to medical professionals for advice and treatment, a new study shows that those with direct patient care are equally as likely to participate in unhealthy behaviors and suffer from medical conditions including obesity.

However, the report published in the Archives of Internal Medicine notes those working in the healthcare industry are more likely to have had a recent checkup and to make strides toward healthier habits after seeking medical attention. Data shows that more than half of healthcare employees and others surveyed reported being overweight, while 18 percent regularly used tobacco.

"All of us look to our healthcare workers to serve as role models, and to the degree that we succeed in being role models, I think that improves our comfort with counseling patients," said Dr. Kenneth Mukamal, of Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston.

Some consumers may not seek out medical attention due to a lack of an individual health insurance plan. With healthcare costs on the rise, affordable treatment and remains important to many.

Shorter hospital stays not linked to worse medical care

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 19 Dec 2012 18:00:00 -0600

While some consumers may associate longer hospital stays with improved care, a new study conducted by researchers from the Iowa City VA Medical Center reveals shorter stays aren't associated with less quality care.

Results show that lengths of stays have gone down 27 percent within 14 years, averaging 2 percent on an annual basis. Over this time period, both readmission and death rates decreased, suggesting how long a patient is under care is not as important to their well-being as the care provided. Readmission rates fell 16 percent between 1997 and 2010, while death rates at 30 and 90 days post hospital stays dropped 3 percent.

"What we found was that they both went down simultaneously," said Dr. Peter Kaboli. "We can improve efficiency and at the same time improve 30-day readmission rates. Over 14 years, the VA and other healthcare systems have been trying to improve efficiency, moving patients through the hospital quicker - get them diagnosed; get them treated; get them home."

Extended hospital stays are also associated with higher cost for consumers, but those in need of medical attention may be wary of their funds to cover rising healthcare costs. Having an affordable health insurance plan can help offset the expenses associated with hospital stays, regardless of how long patients must remain there.

Older consumers underestimate rising cost of health

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

With news of higher healthcare costs, many consumers with families understand the importance of having an affordable health insurance plan. However, a new study has revealed that older consumers, those retiring, also need to factor rising rates for care and treatment when developing their retirement plan.

Data from Fidelity Investments revealed that a 65-year-old couple who retire in 2012 will pay 6 percent more than they would have a year ago in healthcare costs. The total figure moved up to $240,000, a number significantly higher than ever seen before.

"Most people don't realize Medicare covers much less than traditional employer plans," said Sunit Patel, senior vice president of the organization's benefits consulting group.

Additional information shows those nearing retirement tend to overestimate how much of their healthcare expenses are covered by the federal program.

Retirees can still invest in an individual or family health insurance plan to ensure they have optimal coverage for health needs that may arise with age. A health insurance quote can be found online or by contacting an insurance agent directly.

Consumers likely unaware of hidden healthcare costs

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Sun, 16 Dec 2012 18:00:00 -0600

New of rising healthcare costs may have many consumers looking for affordable health insurance plans, and a new study reveals some of the more hidden costs in the industry.

A new report from the Deloitte Center for Health Solutions reveals that there are some expenses consumers may not be aware of that are credited with higher overall costs for care. Supervisory care provided by family members or other consumers accounts for $492 billion of additional costs, compared to the $143 billion spent on care provided through nursing homes and $70 billion spent on home health care.

Out of pocket expenses are another reason for the rising cost of healthcare, as retail and professional services, products, long-term care, hospital care and prescription drugs are becoming more expensive.

"By understanding where consumers are potentially deferring care of spending less, hospitals and health plans can better manage population health/risk and contain medical costs," noted the report.

With the total health-related expenditures totaling $3.2 trillion in 2010, many consumers may be looking for a health insurance quote that provides lower monthly payments for proper coverage. Finding an individual health insurance plan can be done through an online search for quotes.

Wages rise slower than healthcare costs, gap could leave many without coverage

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Sun, 16 Dec 2012 18:00:00 -0600

As the economy continues to stabilize, many more Americans are returning to work and likely benefiting from healthcare plans provided by employers. However, a new study conducted by the Commonwealth Fund shows the costs of health coverage increased significantly between 2003 and 2011, when compared to incomes.

A return of employment and higher incomes may help cover these higher expenses associated with treatment and other healthcare related visits, though a large gap means many families may not be able to afford adequate insurance coverage. Data from the study shows that family premiums for employer-based coverage jumped 62 percent over the nine year span, while premiums could rise by more than 60 percent between now and 2020. With an average cost moving forward to $24,740, affordable health care may become a thing of the past.

"The rising share of premiums paid for by workers have been taking an ever greater cut out of paychecks, especially for those with family plans," according to study authors. "The net result is that it is more difficult for many insured workers and their families to save for education or retirement - or simply to meet day-to-day living expenses."

Those in need of a health insurance plan are urged to compare quotes from providers online or over the phone by directly contacting a company representative.

Some states choose to operate private health insurance markets

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 13 Dec 2012 18:00:00 -0600

As the federal deadline for states to determine if they will run on their own health insurance market approaches, Reuters reports 15 states have submitted plans to do so as of December 13. Additionally, 11 other states have claimed they plan to be involved in health insurance initiatives associates with the healthcare reform.

Despite the unexpected number of voluntary development, the administration will be responsible for designing exchanges for the larger bit of the country. States who have yet to say if they will run their own exchanges will either have one that lack state involvement and are federally-dependent or a partnership allowing the state to be more active. Through the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, more than 30 million uninsured Americans will have coverage by the first of January in 2014.

Gary Cohen, director of the Center for Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight notes that all exchanges will be open for enrollment by October next year.

Since the national healthcare initiative won't be widely available immediately, some consumers may benefit from getting a health insurance quote through a provider sooner rather than later. Affordable health insurance can be found online by comparing quotes from multiple providers.

Patients see increased aches and pains throughout winter

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 12 Dec 2012 18:00:00 -0600

Some older Americans may complain about pains more when the temperature drops, which could mean more visits to the doctor throughout the holiday season. A new survey from the American Osteopathic Association reveals those 45 years of age and older are more likely to experience pain during the winter when compared to younger Americans.

Many of these pains can likely be linked to activities taking place, such as shoveling snow, standing in long lines when shopping before and after the holidays and putting up and taking down of seasonal decor. However, cold weather is more directly responsible for increasing pain of associated with general muscle aches, fibromyalgia and arthritis, as reported by AOA. While many report feeling additional pain, two out of five said they would avoid seeing a doctor until after the holidays.

"Pain may be unavoidable for many during the winter months, but it does not have to prevent people from enjoying the holiday season," said Dr. Jennifer Caudle, an AOA certified family physician. "Managing your pain is not a 'one size fits all' diagnosis and comprehensive care, including appropriate use of pain medications, can help people find relief and enjoy the holidays."

Some consumers may postpone trips to the doctor is they don't have an affordable health care plan, as this time of year can make budgets tight. Those in need of individual health care coverage are advised to compares quotes online.

Survey results show consumers want more control of healthcare

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 11 Dec 2012 18:00:00 -0600

With the costs of healthcare on the rise throughout much of the country, Americans have reported wanting a larger part in their healthcare.

Data from a survey completed by Wolters Kluwer Health shows 76 percent of participants believe they have the knowledge and resources needed to have a proactive role in healthcare decisions including selecting the best providers to treatment methods.

Results shows 85 percent of women said the consumerization of healthcare is positive while 74 percent of men agreed. More women than men, 59 percent compared to 50 percent reported wanting to have a more proactive role in managing their healthcare plans to ensure quality.

"With greater responsibility placed on patients to take a role in their own care, it's essential that consumers have access to evidence-based tools and resources to make informed decisions about their care in partnership with their healthcare providers," said Dr. Linda Peitzman, chief medical officer of the organization.

Those looking to have a more active role in their health can start by finding an affordable health insurance plan. When comparing options, consumers can get a health insurance quote online or over the phone by working with a insurance provider representative.

Americans with sickle cell disease require affordable healthcare

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 10 Dec 2012 18:00:00 -0600

Results from a new study show that adults living with sickle cell disease often require more medical care from emergency providers, which could have higher cost when compared to regular doctor visits.

Research completed by the American Society of Hematology shows those with SCD may seek emergency treatment as they get older, for reasons associated with the disease including acute chest syndrome, pain and infection. In addition to increased treatment for these with age, those with SCD frequent the hospital more often than those living without it, causing costs for insurance coverage to rise.

"While we have made many advances in the treatment of sickle cell disease, this research reveals the important challenge we as physicians continue to face in ensuring that the medical system supports timely access to needed preventive and disease management protocols for our patients," said Janis Abkowitz, president of the organization.

Adults living with sickle cell may benefit from seeking out an affordable health insurance plan to help reduce the costs of unexpected trips to the emergency room and regular checkups with physicians.

Patients with autism report having worse healthcare experiences

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

While affordable healthcare plans allow patients to receive equal medical treatment despite a lack of comparable incomes, results from a new study show that adults diagnosed with autism benefit from less preventive services than those without the condition.

The study, conducted by the Oregon Health and Science University, reports that the current healthcare system may not be providing quality services to those living with autism, who account for 1 percent of the adult population. Adults surveyed reported having higher needs and using emergency services frequently, though basic preventive services are not commonly sought out.

"The existence of healthcare disparities in our sample, most of whom had diagnoses of Asperger’s and/or high educational attainment, highlights the possible negative consequences of stricter criteria," said Dr. Christina Nicolaidis, associate professor of medicine at OHSU.

Some consumers without a proper coverage may avoid seeking medical attention. When looking for an affordable health insurance plan, you may get a health insurance quote over the phone or on the internet.

Some may be without insurance, employer-sponsored coverage continues to decline

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 06 Dec 2012 18:00:00 -0600

A new study shows that some Americans may be left without a proper health insurance plan, as the recent economic downturn left many without jobs. Results show employer-sponsored health care has been on the decline, meaning many may be in need of an individual health insurance plan.

According to the information found by the Economic Policy Institute, the share of non-retired or elderly Americans with employer-sponsored health insurance declined for 11 straight years. It fell from 58.6 percent in 2010 to 58.3 percent in 2011. This figure is expected to increase in 2012, as the economy continues its slow recovery

Those between the ages of 18 and 64 who were employed were 30 percent more likely to lack protection in 2011 when compared to levels seen in 2000. While federal programs have helped many who suffered from job less, those reentering the job market may still be in need of an affordable plan.

Consumers who are in between jobs or simply can't afford EPI offered by their company may benefit from seeking an affordable health insurance plan through a private provider. Those looking for coverage can request a health insurance quote online or over the phone.

Policyholders concerned about out-of-network medical care and treatment

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 05 Dec 2012 18:00:00 -0600

Though consumers are advised to gain knowledge about the terms and conditions of their individual health insurance plan before signing any contracts, a new study shows many fail to realize additional costs that come along with seeking medical services outside of their network.

Data from the study completed by the New York University School of Medicine shows that 8 percent of those surveyed reported visiting a physician who wasn't included in their insurance company's network, while 40 percent of participants who did so experienced involuntary out-of-network care.

Those who must seek medical attention due to an emergency may be met with a fee or other penalization for visits to a doctor or hospital if they aren't within their policy's network. This may cause even those who have coverage to avoid getting medical attention for fear of higher costs.

"It can often be difficult to obtain an estimate of how much you will be charged by a doctor because they don't publicize prices, and patients may not know what the doctor will recommend," said Doctor Kelly Kyanko.

Those concerned about the cost of treatment should seek out an affordable health insurance plan. To receive a health insurance quote, consumers can look online or contract providers directly.

Affordable Care Act allows billions in savings on prescriptions for Medicare patients

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 04 Dec 2012 18:00:00 -0600

A new report from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services shows $5.1 billion was saved on prescription drugs thanks to the Affordable Care Act. Federal programs including Medicare have made health care more affordable for many Americans, as the cost of health care has been on the rise.

According to Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, around 5.8 million Americans with Medicare have benefits from help provided by the recently added health care low, especially when it comes to saving month on treatment including prescriptions. Throughout the year, individuals have saved nearly $677 on prescription drugs, when comparing amounts paid by 2.8 million consumers.

"The health care law is saving money for people with Medicare," said Sebelius. "Everyone with Medicare should look at their health and drug plan options for additional value before the Medicare open enrollment period ends this week."

The enrollment period expires on December 7.

Those who do not qualify for federal aid for health care may still be able to find an affordable health insurance plan by looking for an optimal health insurance quote online.

Health care costs high, slowing in many parts of the country

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 03 Dec 2012 18:00:00 -0600

While many reports have noted rising costs for medical care nationwide throughout much of the year, findings from recent studies show some hospitals are doing a better job of limiting costs for patients, especially in the Midwest where they are notably higher.

Data from the Greater Milwaukee Business Foundation on Health shows health care costs have been up in the region. When looking at health insurance premiums, the study shows those living in southeastern Wisconsin paid, on average, 7 percent more for coverage. Despite being higher than other parts of the country, this is down from the 8 percent difference observed in 2010.

According to the Journal Sentinel, medical services cost more in this area, as fees are also higher than the recorded national average. A separate study suggests hard economic times may have contributed to higher costs for medical attention and treatment, noting expenses should continue to slow down as the economy improves.

Without an affordable health insurance plan, those living in places where health care costs are high may find themselves struggling to pay for medical bills, while some may avoid seeking medical attention when needed due to their inability to pay.

High costs of cancer medications may be offset by different prescription program

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

For many consumers, the increased cost of medical expenses is mostly felt directly when purchasing prescriptions and paying for a visit to the doctor's office. However, a new study suggests that splitting medication refills for oral oncology prescriptions resulted in both lower costs and improved patient adherence.

Findings from the research conducted by Prime Therapeutics and Dr. Jonas de Souza shows that less than two-thirds of patients prescribed erlotinib were adherent throughout the 180 days following the completion of the study. In addition, around one in four patients discontinued use when given a 30-day amount, while those given a 15-day prescription were more likely to complete their supply in its entirety. Overall, around $53,273 in costs for medications was saved via the split fill approach.

"For lung cancer patients, costs could be higher over time if they stop their drugs and the disease progresses," said Doctor Pat Gleason, the director of health outcomes for Prime. "Plans need to carefully consider the impact of out of pocket costs on patient care and on the total cost of care."

Consumers having trouble with higher costs of medical expenses are advised to seek out an affordable health insurance plan. Those looking to do so can obtain a health insurance quote from providers over the phone or compare rates online.

Patients lack knowledge of medical professional roles

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

With medical costs on the rise, some patients may avoid additional testing and treatment to avoid higher medical bills. However, new findings from the Indiana University School of Medicine shows that many patients are not aware of how radiologists influence overall health care.

According to results from a study, only 64 percent of patients who met with a radiologists were aware of how they contribute to health care. Additional data showed 35.8 percent claimed they understood the position, and 83 percent admitted it is important to know the role of medical professionals who review their medical exams and relay medical information.

"We need to better understand what patients want to know about radiologists in order to improve service and patient care," Doctor Peter Miller said at the annual Radiological Society of North America. "In my experience, people who've had the opportunity to interact with radiologists appreciated the chance to talk with them and get their thoughts on the imaging results."

Those who find themselves in need of a CT exam may benefit from meeting with their radiologists ahead of time. To help cut the costs of these appointments and further treatment, investing in an affordable health insurance plan.

HFCS linked to increased prevalence of type 2 diabetes in U.S.

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 28 Nov 2012 18:00:00 -0600

While many medical conditions are brought on by bad habits, results from a new study shows a strong correlation between consuming high fructose corn syrup and the development of type 2 diabetes. With the number of diagnoses on the rise, the study suggests that eating healthier could be a preventative measure.

The study conducted by scientists at the University of Southern California and University of Oxford found that countries reviewed that reported having high fructose corn syrup in food consumed had a population where diabetes was 20 percent more likely to occur.

An increased number of consumers with medical conditions has also resulted in higher costs for treatment. According to the study, the U.S. had the highest consumption of high fructose corn syrup when compared to 41 other countries, where it remains a serious health issue along with obesity.

"This research suggests that HFCS can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, which is one of the most common causes of death in the world today," Stanley Ulijaszek, co-author of the study told Healthcare Global.

Those who have been diagnosed with diabetes may benefit from comparing rates for individual health insurance, as treatment can be costly without an affordable health insurance plan.

Families with children of limitations less likely to seek medical attention

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 28 Nov 2012 18:00:00 -0600

A new study from the University of Wisconsin's School of Medicine and Public Health shows increased costs of medical costs including regular trips to the doctor and prescriptions has deterred many parents from seeking medical attention for their children.

Over time, research has shown that those who would find it difficult to pay off a medical bill are more likely to hold out on making a doctors appointment. When families must pay for health care expenses, when regarding their income, it can be seen as a financial burden, while medical bill debt remains a concern for consumers overall.

Results show families considered to have a high financial burden, those paying for appointments and prescriptions out of pocket, were more likely to also lack parental insurance. Additionally, families with at least one child who suffered from an activity limitation, such as autism, asthma or obesity, increased the chances of not a family health insurance plan.

"Families aren't choosing to spend their money on going to the doctor when someone is sick because of how much it costs them to see the doctor last time," said Lauren Wisk, from UW. "They're sacrificing their health because it costs too much money."

Since children will need vaccinations and regular care throughout their growing years, parents are urged to seek out an affordable health insurance plan. Comparing quotes online or working directly with an insurance provider can help when creating a budget for a policy.

New regulations for health care to provide more consumers with insurance

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 28 Nov 2012 18:00:00 -0600

Recently proposed regulations for health care provisions will benefit the estimated 129 million Americans who will benefit from the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Those with pre-existing conditions have historically found it more difficult to find affordable health insurance plans, however, this will no longer be a problem with market reforms.

With these new regulations, coverage providers will only be able to increase rates for insurance policies based on age, family size, location and tobacco use, while those with pre-existing conditions will be granted comparable rates to those without them. Additionally, essential services will be required to be covered including maternity and newborn care, prescription drugs, emergency services, hospitalizations and both oral and vision care.

"Unlike three years ago, we can see a path forward to the kind of health system America needs to be globally competitive," said Kathleen Sebelius, secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Consumers looking to invest in individual or family health insurance before the 2014 start of the Affordable Care Act can look at health insurance quotes online and compare rates to ensure they are getting the best deal on coverage.

Baby Boomer's more concerned with health upon turning 50

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 27 Nov 2012 18:00:00 -0600

While many health conditions can become prevalent early on, results from a new study show Baby Boomers report being most concerned with their health after turning 50 and just before their 65th birthday.

The study completed by John Dimmick and a team of researchers found that those in their late 40s were less worried about health issues in general. However, they reported becoming more aware of their state of health after turning 50 and even more so when they reached the average age of retiring.

Data collected could help insurance companies work better to provide a better program for consumers who need affordable health insurance, while medical providers are also urged to stress the importance of regular health screenings to those under 50.

"We do a lot of health screenings at age 50 and prepare for retirement at age 65 and that seems to drive a lot of the interest in health issues at those ages," Dimmick told McKnights.

Baby Boomers who lack an individual health insurance plan may benefit from looking at medical health insurance quotes online or by speaking directly to providers.

Physicians may lack availability to accept newly insured patients

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Sun, 25 Nov 2012 18:00:00 -0600

While more consumers will likely benefit from safety-net health care through the Affordable Care Act, a new study shows that it may be challenging to find a primary care physician for those recently insured.

Data from the report completed by Dr. Eric Campbell of the Mongan Institute may have many consumers concerned, as doctors may be unable to handle a spring in demand for medical services. Half of all physicians included in the study's panel reported they were currently accepting new patients who were either unable to pay for their visits or were covered under Medicaid.

Safety-net physicians, those who claimed having more than 20 percent of uninsured or Medicaid patients reported they were more likely to accept newly insured patients. Seventy-two said they were taking new patients with coverage through Medicaid while 61 percent were accepting new patients without an health insurance plan.

Though more consumers will have direct access to insurance options, the widespread availability to coverage may not go into effect immediately. Those without family health insurance may benefit from seeking out health insurance quotes to compare affordable options.

Online resources promote seeking medical attention

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 20 Nov 2012 18:00:00 -0600

Speaking with a doctor directly is not always possible, however, a new study reveals that increased communication via the internet has increased office visits. Contrary to belief that medical advice or instruction via email would decrease scheduled in-office appointments, results from the study conducted by Dr. Ted Palen and researchers show patients with internet access came in more often.

According to Kaiser Health News, this could be because those who reach out to medical providers over the internet are already sick or are more likely to become ill given their medical history. However, it could also be due to vagueness from patients, which lead to doctors recommending they come into the office for clarification. On the plus side, this means doctors may be able to diagnose diseases early on, should patients express concern of symptoms before they become more serious.

"It's a new form of medical care that offers the promise to be able to improve care," Dr. Jeff Cain, president of the American Academy of Family Physicians told the news source.

While a price tag has yet to be placed on the communication service, those who are experiencing symptoms or find themselves becoming ill shouldn't avoid visiting a doctor because of the cost. This is why having an affordable health insurance plan is important. Those seeking coverage can seek out an optimal health insurance quote online.

Postdischarge difficulties more likely to occur after common impatient surgeries

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 19 Nov 2012 18:00:00 -0600

Results from a new study on postdischarge complications shows those who undergo some general surgical procedures are more likely to have issues resulting in having to be rehospitalized.

According to research from Stanford University, 40 percent of all post-operative complications occurred after being discharged, while one in 14 general surgery patients who had an inpatient procedure had the same. Data shows that the most common type of complications included blood clots and infections at the site of surgery, while complications during inpatient surgery positively correlated with post discharge problems.

Some procedures that were most commonly associated with postdischarge complications include proctectomy, enteric fistula repair and procedures involving the pancreas. Additionally, those who experience difficulties in the 30 days following a procedure, are 33.7 percent more likely to need a reoperation, while the death rate is also 14.7 percent higher.

"In summary, our analysis revealed that PD complications account for a significant burden of postoperative complications and are an important avenue for quality improvement in inpatient general surgery," the authors said.

Upon finding out you may require a general surgical procedure, it may be time to review your family health insurance plan. If some necessary treatments and procedures aren't included in coverage, it may be a good idea to compare health insurance quotes to avoid spending a lot out-of-pocket.

Lack of attention to stress could mean missed opportunities to prevent medical problems

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 19 Nov 2012 18:00:00 -0600

Discussing tactics and other behaviors to reduce stress could significantly reduce health problems, as the two are strongly correlated, however, a new study shows only 3 percent of doctors talk to their patients about doing so.

Historically, studies suggest that stress is directly linked to heart disease, heart attacks and high blood pressure, which are all leading causes of death in the U.S. According to researchers, between 60 and 80 percent of visits to a doctor's office are believed to be connected to health problems that could be worsened by a heightened amount of stress.

The study sites information from the Archives of Internal Medicine, that suggests counseling provided by physicians regarding stress is not comparable to other types of counseling that have been spun into primary care. While researchers note that doctors already have a shortened amount of time with individual patients, failure to discuss stress levels could result in missing symptoms of bigger issues.

When consulting with a doctor, patients are advised to discuss their stress levels, as it could provide help in diagnosing issues. Since regular doctor visits can be expensive without affordable health insurance, it may be a good idea to seek out medical insurance quotes from insurance providers.

Study shows medical care paired with good health habits promote regular pregnancy

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

In an effort to reduce the number of premature births worldwide, a new study has found numerous medical precautions that should be taken by those pregnant and provided by doctors.

Data from the study shows that by reducing preterm birth rates by at least 5 percent throughout the U.S. and 39 other countries that have adequate medical resources, 58,000 babies a year can be saved by 2015. Results reveal some proven interventions that can be made include assisting soon-to-be mothers to quit smoking, provide progesterone supplements to those enduring a high-risk pregnancy and eliminating early cesarean deliveries and inductions of labor unless they are required due to unusual circumstances.

Preterm babies run a significantly higher risk of newborn death, and even those who survive are sometimes faced with multiple challenges including intellectual development, breathing problems and some that may not become apparent until later in life.

"The preterm birth rate in the U.S currently is on the decline, but for this trend to continue, it's critical that high-resource countries such as ours focus vigorously on prevention," said Dr. Christopher Howson, vice president of Global Programs for March of Dimes.

Those who are planning on starting a family should be sure to take all the necessary precautions to ensure a healthier pregnancy, while having an affordable health insurance plan will help reduce the costs of regular doctors visits. Comparing rates for coverage is easy by requesting health insurance quotes from prospective providers.

Children lack insurance coverage, high in California

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 15 Nov 2012 18:00:00 -0600

While children require frequent visits to the doctor when growing up, a new study shows those living in California are more likely to be without insurance coverage, leaving them without proper care or higher bills for parents.

According to the study by the California HealthCare Foundation, around 11 percent of children lacked protection in 2011, and were notably less likely to seek medical attention when needed when compared to those with family health insurance plans in other parts of the country.

Additionally, when compared to adults, children in The Golden State were less likely to be uninsured, but were three times more likely to be enrolled in federal insurance programs. Majority of families without coverage for children reported having a low-income, and community clinics have become more popular for those who do seek treatment, with or without insurance. Data from the report shows the number of children using these services has increased 18 percent in the last four years.

Overall, 56 percent of California residents who were 18 years of age or younger had private insurance, while 41 percent were protected via public coverage. The remaining lack any form of coverage, leaving many parents responsible for medical expenses, which have been on the rise throughout much of 2012.

Those who lack a proper and affordable health insurance plan can compare health insurance quotes online, or contact insurance providers for a more accurate estimate for coverage.

Divorced women lack affordable insurance plans

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 14 Nov 2012 18:00:00 -0600

A new report shows that many women who find themselves divorced also tend to lack a proper family health insurance, along with other financial burdens.

Studies show that 115,000 women go through divorce every year, and a new study completed by Dr. Bridget Lavelle and Pamela Smock shows many of these women have trouble paying for insurance coverage for the two years following the action.

According to results, 65,000 divorced women will forfeit their health insurance coverage after the divorce is finalized, as many were previously listed as dependents on their former spouse's plan. Additionally, the financial turmoil that is frequently associated with divorce prevents many from investing in their own insurance policy. The study shows this is even more problematic for women with a moderate income, when compared to those making more, as they are better able to afford a plan.

"Given that approximately one million divorces occur each year in the U.S., and that many women get health coverage through their husbands, the impact is quite substantial," said Lavelle.

Women who find themselves without an adequate and affordable health insurance plan are urged to begin comparing quotes from insurance providers soon, as not having coverage could mean paying for medical expenses out of pocket after a divorce.

Increasing medical costs influence treatment options for heart disease

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 13 Nov 2012 18:00:00 -0600

Heart disease continues to threaten the lives of many, and rising costs for treatment could have a negative effect on how patients are treated, according to Reuters.

At a recent meeting of the American Heart Association, record high prices for both devices and drugs have many doctors considering alternative or basic treatments for patients, keeping in mind that many may not be able to afford top-of-the-line medical care. Results from one study show that getting rid of drug co-payments for those who have suffered from a heart attack notably lowered the chance of them suffering from another issue revolving around cardiovascular health.

As heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the U.S., the source notes it is also the most expensive. Data from the American Heart Association shows, on average, medical costs of cardiovascular disease will grow to $800 billion by 2030, up significantly from the measured $272 billion just two years ago.

Opting to not partake in potentially life saving treatments is likely more characteristic of those who lack a proper family health insurance plan. Those who have been diagnosed with cardiovascular disease or who have a family history of this may benefit from comparing affordable health insurance quotes so overcoming the medical condition is less expensive.

Depression one of top risks connected to higher medical costs for employers, employees

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 12 Nov 2012 18:00:00 -0600

Many forms of depression have been linked to other medical issues, and a new study shows depression is one of the risk factors that are connected to inflated health costs.

Results from the study published in Health Affairs reveal that 22.4 percent of the $366 million spent each year by employers and employees evaluated were linked to ten risk factors. According to researchers, the high risk for depression was one of the highest expenses, as the addition costs for an employee diagnosed was 48 percent, or $2,185 more than for an employee without depression.

While other factors including obesity and high blood pressure also showed increased medical costs, the study showed the most significant price for those with depression.

Higher medical costs for employers could result in higher rates for employers who are covered under a group insurance plan. those looking for more affordable health insurance, especially those who have been diagnosed with one of the risk factors linked to higher medical costs. By comparing health insurance quotes online, those seeking a family or individual policy can find one that will help offset costs associated with depression.

Study finds link between total hip replacement and strokes

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 12 Nov 2012 18:00:00 -0600

Results from a new study show that those who receive a total hip replacement may be more likely to have a stroke soon after surgery is completed. Results from the international study showed new patients who received the replacement were five times as likely to have an ischaemic stroke within two weeks after, and four times as likely to experience a haemorrhagic stroke.

While the risk of having either type of stroke greatly reduces after patients pass the initial two weeks, the study reveals that risk for an ischaemic stroke exist throughout six weeks post surgery, and are elevated for the first 12 weeks for haemorrhagic incidents.

"The number of hip replacement procedures will rise as we live longer," said Professor Cyrus Cooper, director of the Medical Research Council Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit University of Southhampton and lead Rheumatologist of the study. "These results will hopefully help health care professionals to provide improved services and help people who have hip replacement manage the risk of stroke after the procedure.

Those who find themselves in need of a hip replacement will likely rely on their family health insurance plan to cover majority of the costs. Those without affordable health insurance could have to pay for additional costs out-of-pocket, which could be even higher should they suffer from a stroke post surgery.

Multivitamins not helpful in preventing heart disease in men

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Sun, 11 Nov 2012 18:00:00 -0600

While a regular vitamin regimen can provide numerous health benefits, results from an ongoing study conducted by the Physician's Health Study II show they do little in preventing strokes, heart attacks and heart disease.

HealthDay reports that the study shows nearly 15,000 male participants reported no medical benefits when it came to cardiovascular problems, as there was no difference between those who receive a multi-vitamin versus a placebo.

One professor from Harvard Medical School suggests that many don't see benefits because they don't take further action to keep their heart healthy.

"I think that for many patients, they take a multivitamin or other supplements - and it's a multibillion dollar industry - as a means to improve their health as a quick fix," said Dr. Dariush Mozaffarian. "That can actually be dangerous and have negative effects, because they are not going to be doing the things related to their diet and physical activity of smoking."

Taking a multivitamin can provide other health benefits, however, those concerned about cardiovascular issues may benefit from regular visits to their physician. Since additional treatment and prevention of cardiovascular problems can be expensive, having affordable family health insurance is important. Consumers who pay too much for coverage are urged to seek out other affordable health insurance plans.

Sleeping disorder linked to strokes and heart attacks

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 08 Nov 2012 18:00:00 -0600

Results from a new study show those who suffer from insomnia are more likely to have a heart attack or stroke when compared to those who don't have a sleeping disorder.

Multiple studies have provided information that suggests a lack of sleep and medical problems are connected, including issues with both physical and mental health. Some common correlations are with high blood pressure, depression and obesity. Findings from Taiwanese researchers shows people with insomnia may have double the chances of suffering from strokes and heart attacks.

"It's an interesting finding and builds upon prior research demonstrating increased risk for heart attack associated with insomnia of this order of magnitude," said Dr. Gregg Fonarow, a professor of cardiovascular medicine at the University of California Los Angeles. "this study adds new information, that there's a strong relationship with stroke as well."

Suffering from an unexpected stroke or heart attack can be expensive, especially for those who don't have affordable health insurance. Those who experience symptoms of insomnia are advised to seek out medical attention, while comparing health insurance quotes can help reduce the cost of regular doctor visits.

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of death, screening requires multiple tests

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 08 Nov 2012 18:00:00 -0600

New research from the National Cancer Institute's National Lung Screening Trial has found that screening using low dose computed tomography helps reduce lung cancer mortality by 20 percent.

"Screening for lung cancer is not a single test or event," said Dr. Eric Hart, radiologist and director of thoracic imaging at Northwestern Memorial. "That process begins when an at-risk individual considers screening and doesn't end until action has been taken on the results of the CT exam."

Detecting lung cancer in it's early stages is crucial survival. However, those who suffer from this type of cancer only have a survival rate of 15 percent, as it is typically not found in patients until it has already advanced into something more serious.

Not participating in risky behaviors including smoking can help prevent lung cancer, but both second- and third-hand smoke has been linked to the disease, as well. Symptoms aren't often apparent until the cancer becomes more severe, so regular check-ups can also help be preventative.

Seeking medical treatment associated with lung cancer can be pricey for consumers. However, having adequate coverage via an individual health insurance plan can help keep costs minimal.

Health risks expected to increase after Sandy

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 07 Nov 2012 18:00:00 -0600

While many Americans on the East Coast are working to get their homes back in order after Hurricane Sandy, these affected residents should be aware of potential health problems that could arise following the storm.

HealthDay reports that some short-term dangers for those in Sandy's path include not having basic necessities such as electricity. Those with water in their homes are advised to stay away from outlets and other electronics, Dr. Pavani Ram, associate professor of social and preventive medicine at the University at Buffalo's School of Public Health and Health Professions, told the source.

Ram added that those running generators should be aware of carbon monoxide poisoning from inadequate ventilation. Additionally, she noted consuming items that could have potentially spoiled while the electricity was out could also be dangerous to one's health due to the possibility of mold forming.

"Immunocompromised people and elderly people are probably at highest risk for complications from mold exposure and these are the people who should stay away from water-logged buildings, especially for prolonged periods of time," Ram told the source.

Meanwhile, Dr. Joseph Guarisco, chief of emergency services at Ochsner Health System in New Orleans told HealthDay there are some more long-term medical risks that are often associated with hurricanes. These include injuries throughout the recovery process, such as slip and falls and eye injuries.

As many are currently dealing with injuries and other ailments due to Sandy, they may find themselves in need of medical attention. This makes having affordable care important. Those without an adequate coverage plan may benefit from comparing health insurance quotes online without compromising coverage for price.

Weight loss decreases inflammation, reducing cardiac risks

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 07 Nov 2012 18:00:00 -0600

Being overweight is directly related to a number of health problems, but a new study by the John Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore shows those who lose weight through a low-carb or low-fat diet can reduce inflammation, ultimately helping lower the risk of heart disease.

Results show that those who are overweight or obese are more likely to experience inflammation throughout their body, which significantly increases the risk of both strokes and heart attacks. Being overweight is also linked to other diseases, though heart disease remains a major cause of death in Americans.

"Our findings indicate that you can reduce systemic inflammation, and possibly lower your risk of heart disease, no matter which diet - either low-carb or low-fat," said Kerry Stewart, director of clinical and research exercise physiology at the university.

Those looking for ways to lose weight to improve their overall health make benefit from speaking with their doctors about potential diets and exercise. Since more frequent visits to the doctor may be necessary, having an affordable health insurance plan will help eliminate the costs of becoming more healthy.

Americans express concern with Alzheimer's disease, study shows

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 06 Nov 2012 18:00:00 -0600

For many families with loved ones affected by Alzheimer's disease, many Americans remain concerned that there is no existing cure or treatment.

Data from a survey conducted by the Banner Alzheimer's Institute shows more than seven in 10 adults expresses worry about their own memory loss or how the disease could affect themselves or a member of their family. Currently, 5.4 million are living with the disease, however, this is predicted to rise above 7.7 million by 2030.

"Most Americans now realize how devastating this disease is for individuals, families and the country," said Dr. Eric Reiman, executive director of the Banner Alzheimer's Institute. "We need to marshal their awareness and concerns to push forward on the research that holds the greatest promise for stopping Alzheimer's."

The disease is the only condition that is within the top 10 causes of death that is without treatment, though additional research will continue to be completed to ease consumer concern and help those affected by Alzheimer's.

Those experiencing symptoms of the disease are advised to seek medical treatment, but without affordable health insurance, unexpected trips to the doctor can be costly. By obtaining health insurance quotes, consumers are able to compare coverage and rates offered by insurance providers, potentially helping reduce the cost of medical attention.

Chelation study show positive results and prevention of cardiovascular conditions

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 05 Nov 2012 18:00:00 -0600

A new study shows an alternative method of treatment for heart disease has been successful at preventing heart problems. While results showed positive improvements, additional observations will require further research.

According to CNN, the first long-term trial of chelation for heart patients showed the therapy helped reduce the risk of deaths, heart attacks, strokes and other cardiovascular problems by 18 percent.

"The most exciting part of this study is that there may be an unexpected signal of benefit," Dr. Gervasio Lamas, chief of Columbia University Division of Cardiology said in a press release.

Doctors who promote the use of chelation for treatment say it helps remove heavy metals from the body, while it has also been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. While it is most popularly used to treat some poisonings, medical providers are allowed to use it for other reasons.

With heart disease prevalent in many Americans, going to the doctor's for treatments is needed. Finding an affordable health insurance plan can alleviate the costs of any visits and treatments.

Cholesterol survey results show patients discontinue use of medications

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Sun, 04 Nov 2012 18:00:00 -0600

High cholesterol remains one of the leading risk factors of heart disease and the number one cause of death in the U.S., according to the Understanding Statin use in America and Gaps in Education survey.

Results from the study show 62 percent of patients prescribed statins say they discontinue use of the medication because of side effects, while 12 percent stated treatment didn't seem to be helpful. Like many Americans who purchase prescriptions, 17 percent of those surveyed reported the cost of medication as a main reason for no longer taking statins.

Together, these reasons are mainly responsible for the statistic that 75 percent of new statin users discontinue treatment within their first year on medicine. Not having an adequate health insurance plan also likely contribute to many patients ending treatment early.

While results from USAGE reveal 81 percent of patients reported being satisfied with explanation of the necessity of treatment and medication, for those who have trouble affording statins the rising costs of medication and heart disease remain problematic.

Those who are at risk for cardiovascular disease may benefit from seeking affordable health insurance. Coverage quotes can easily be found online, while policyholders should ensure their health insurance plan includes coverage for necessary medication.

Smoking bans help reduce smoking-related hospitalizations

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 01 Nov 2012 19:00:00 -0500

As more information regarding the health risks of second- and third-hand smoke continue to surface, many more bans on smoking in public areas have been initiated in recent years, while a new study reveals these bans have helped reduced related hospitalizations.

Data from the Center for Tobacco Control Research and Education at the University of California, San Francisco reveals smoke-free laws in 33 different areas resulted to a 15 percent reduction in hospitalization for heart attacks, while there was also a 16 percent reduction for strokes.

According to a report from HealthDay News, 29 states throughout the U.S. have strict regulations regarding tobacco use, which have been put in place to protect Americans from potential breathing and cardiovascular problems associated with smoking. Results from the study show the greatest decreases in hospitalizations were posted by regions that have stricter policies.

"Smoke-free laws have dramatic and immediate impacts on health and the associated medical costs," said Stanton Glantz, lead researcher for the program.

The risks associated with second- and third-hand smoke can result in needing medical attention. However, those without a proper health insurance plan may find going to the doctor too expensive. Those seeking affordable health insurance may benefit from seeking and comparing quotes for coverage online.

Price of tobacco linked to lower use

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 31 Oct 2012 19:00:00 -0500

A new study parallels findings from the American Journal of Preventive Medicine that the higher the price of tobacco, the less likely consumers are to engage in smoking.

While many Americans are aware of the health risks that come along with tobacco use, new research conducted by Dr. Raymond Boyle of Clearway reveals that the rising price of tobacco is the largest contributing factor to lower smoking rates in Minnesota.

Data from the study shows additional price increases and sustaining a strong system of other tobacco policies and programs could decrease the smoking prevalence rate by 10 percent and save more than 55,000 lives over the next 30 years.

Programs and stricter regulations, including cessation treatment, laws that limit smoking area and especially tax increases, have contributed to a 29 percent drop in tobacco users in Minnesota between 1993 and 2011.

"If we want to get serious about driving down smoking-related disease and death we need to stick to a multi-pronged strategy that includes, most notably, increasing the price of cigarettes and smokeless tobacco," said Dr. Raymond Boyle, Ph.D., M.P.H., Director of Research at ClearWay Minnesota.

Health risks that come along with using tobacco can lead to further medical issues that can be costly, especially for those who lack an adequate health insurance plan. Those who lack proper insurance coverage may benefit from researching health insurance quotes online for optimal protection.

Americans still split on healthcare reform

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 30 Oct 2012 19:00:00 -0500

The Affordable Care Act has many consumers unsure of the future of the healthcare industry, according to a poll conducted by HealthDay and Harris Interactive.

More than 30 percent of those polled noted the government needs to repeal the law, while 27 percent felt it was necessary to keep the law. Additionally, 22 percent noted they would want some parts to be removed, and some to remain.

Seven in 10 respondents noted that health insurance companies should not be able to withhold coverage for pre-existing conditions, the report noted. The healthcare law prevents health insurance companies from doing this. This was six percentage points higher than respondents two years ago.

The report added that 60 percent of respondents noted an impact to their lives from healthcare reform already.

Consumers who are worried about the changes that healthcare reform will create may want to consider looking for a healthcare policy now. This is because the changes will not take full effect until 2014. Looking for a plan with affordable health insurance rates now may be a better option.

Higher successive stroke risk occurs in smokers

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 30 Oct 2012 19:00:00 -0500

A study published in the medical journal Stroke found that smokers have a higher risk of repeat episodes of strokes than those who don't smoke, or have quit.

Smokers who experienced a stroke had a 30 percent higher chance of a second stroke, heart attack or even death than those who had never used cigarettes, HealthDay explained, citing the study. Those smokers who lived 28 days after their first stroke experienced a risk increase of more than 40 percent. However, smokers who quit pre-stroke had a risk increase of only 18 percent.

"Stop smoking, because one of the things we showed is that people who gave up smoking had a much greater benefit than those who were still smoking," said Amanda Thrift, professor of epidemiology at Monash University, according to the news source. "There are real benefits to be gained from giving up smoking."

Patients who want to quit smoking may benefit from asking their physician about quitting methods. However, if they do not have a healthcare policy, looking for a plan with affordable health insurance rates may help them get the coverage desired.

Healthcare plan costs vary across the country

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 29 Oct 2012 19:00:00 -0500

Health insurance policy costs can vary significantly throughout the nation, according to an analysis conducted by U.S. News and World Report.

Typically, a healthcare policy has a patient pay one-fifth of all costs when making a visit to the hospital. The national deductible median is $2,700 on a $20,000 visit, which could force a consumer to pay approximately $6,000 up front, the report explained. The analysis examined approximately 6,000 healthcare policies throughout the country.

Policies based in Massachusetts had some of the most expensive policies, overall, the report noted. In the Bay State, more than 40 percent of all plans cover imaging, hospital visits and physician fees when the deductible is reached.

The report added that every policy in Massachusetts received a four-star or higher rating, while Alaska and Washington only had one-tenth of its offerings considered to be that higher.

Those consumers who are unsure of the type of plan they want may benefit from looking at a large number of health insurance quotes, as seeing various options may make understanding policy offerings easier.

Healthcare cost increases lose steam in Colorado

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 29 Oct 2012 19:00:00 -0500

Residents of Colorado will witness the level of healthcare expense increases slow down next year, according to the Lockton Employer Benefits Survey.

In 2012, the health insurance cost level rose 9.4 percent, but this will drop to approximately 7.4 percent next year. Additionally, the report noted that 2011's rate was more than 14 percent. Next year's figure should be only slightly higher than the projected national average, which likely will be a jump of 7 percent.

"We had 11 years of double-digit increases in Colorado," Dede de Percin, director of the Colorado Consumer Health Initiative, told the Denver Post. "[W]e've only been turning this Titanic for two years. It's not perfect yet, but it's so much better than it was."

No matter where a patient lives, they may want to see if their current health insurance policy is the most affordable option they can receive. It may help to compare multiple health insurance quotes with their plan to see if there is a better offering financially when looking at options.

More young people acquire insurance policies

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Sun, 28 Oct 2012 19:00:00 -0500

The level of healthcare policies among those between the ages of 18 and 25 improved during the third quarter, while levels of uninsured older Americans rose, according to a poll from Gallup.

Overall, the youngest group polled had an uninsured rate of 23.4 percent last quarter, which was significantly lower than the cyclical high of nearly 29 percent three years ago. However, those aged 26 to 64 years old experienced an uninsured level rise to 19.4 percent during the quarter, the poll showed.

Senior citizens experienced the lowest level of uninsured persons, with a rate of 2.7 percent during the third quarter. This was the first time in three years where the figure dropped lower than 3 percent, but still not significantly different from previous levels.

No matter what a consumer's age is, they may want to look for a health insurance policy to make sure they are covered in the event of a major illness. By looking online and comparing healthcare plans, there may be one available with affordable health insurance rates.

Long-term care services rise throughout country

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 25 Oct 2012 19:00:00 -0500

A study from Truven Health Analytics found that there is an increased level of state participation in the in Managed Long-Term Services and Supports initiatives throughout the country.

In 2004, there was a total of 105,000 people who received some sort of care under this system, according to Truven's study, completed with the aid of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. This figure rose 370 percent by this year, as there are now close to 390,000 patients in these programs.

"Increasingly, states are finding that by implementing MLTSS programs, they can reduce preventable admissions to nursing homes, avoid redundant services, fill gaps in care and reduce per-person costs," said Paul Saucier, director of integrated care systems at Truven Health Analytics.

The study added that these types of programs only exist in 16 states, and half of those are mandatory for patients to be a part of. However, 26 states may have these in the next two years.

Those consumers who don't feel they are receiving the proper care through their current healthcare policy may want to look for another, stronger option. By examining health insurance quotes, a person may be able to find what they need online.

Medicare open enrollment period underway

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 24 Oct 2012 19:00:00 -0500

An announcement from AARP explained that those consumers currently attached to a Medicare policy would have the ability to change their plan's options from now through the early part of December.

The open enrollment period would change plans for next year, and consumers could select multiple variants including staying or reverting to the standard Medicare policy, or acquiring the Medicare advantage option. Whether a consumer is interested in altering their current government health offering or not, the organization explained that it is important to at least review the current options with the available choices. This is because they may be able to select a better option for them.

"Your health and medication needs can change from year to year and health plans may also change their benefits and costs," said Nicole Duritz, vice president of AARP. "That's why it's important to evaluate your Medicare choices during open enrollment."

While consumers may be able to improve their Medicare plans during this period, the new policy may not give them everything they need. For those concerned about affordability, there may be plans with low health insurance rates available online.

Many diabetes patients don't understand oral health link

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 23 Oct 2012 19:00:00 -0500

A survey of diabetes patients from The American Diabetes Association and Colgate Total found that many are not aware of the connection between oral health and the disease.

More than 35 percent of respondents noted they were in the dark about the connection between their disease and taking care of their oral health. Additionally, close to 55 percent said they had at least one symptom of gum disease. Of those, two-thirds noted they don't talk to their doctor about it.

Not only are people with diabetes more susceptible to serious gum disease, but gum disease may also have the potential to affect blood glucose control and contribute to the progression of diabetes," said Lurelean Gaines, president-elect of healthcare & education for the American Diabetes Association.

Consumers who have diabetes should speak with their dentist or physician on ways to care for the ailment. However, if their current insurance policy makes it too expensive to regularly visit the doctor, selecting a new policy from the many health insurance quotes available may be a good plan.

Many hospital workers at risk of health issues

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 22 Oct 2012 19:00:00 -0500

A recent study from Truven Health noted that those who work in hospitals have a higher chance of falling ill and cost a significant amount of money to treat.

Overall, these employees had a 5 percent higher chance of being hospitalized than the general workforce, as well as costing nearly 10 percent more in healthcare expenses, the study noted, according to Time Healthland. Additionally, healthcare employees had a higher risk of developing chronic illnesses, especially depression, asthma and obesity.

"Ideally, the healthcare workforce would be a model for healthy behaviors and the appropriate use of medical resources," said Dr. Raymond Fabius, chief medical author for Truven Health, and study author, according to the news source. "Hospitals that tackle this issue can strengthen their business performance and community service."

Healthcare employees may not be happy with the policy they have through their employer, especially if they are prone to illness. With this in mind, they may have better luck getting more affordable and substantial care by acquiring one of the many health insurance quotes available online.

Older Americans pay extra for Medicare policy

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Sun, 21 Oct 2012 19:00:00 -0500

A report from the University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health showed that a significant portion of elderly Americans are overpaying for their Medicare policies.

Approximately 412,000 people who used Medicare were analyzed by the study. Close to 5 percent selected the plan's prescription benefit at its lowest price. Other consumers who used this aspect of the program, cumulatively overpaid by more than $360 annually. Additionally, those older than 85 spent $30 more for their plans than those in their mid-to-late 60s. When examining demographics, white people spent the most money, as they selected pricier policies, on average.

"People need assistance in choosing the least expensive plan for their medical needs," said Chao Zhou, lead author and post-doctoral associate at Pitt Public Health. "Educational programs that help people navigate the dozens of plans available would make it easier to select plans that best meet their healthcare needs without overspending."

Consumers who are not happy with their government-sponsored healthcare policy may want to look at a private option. Comparing health insurance quotes online may help a person find something that fits their needs and has low health insurance rates.

Strokes increase in younger patients

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 18 Oct 2012 19:00:00 -0500

A report published in the health journal Neurology found that younger Americans are becoming more prone to strokes.

The medical episode rose by close to twice its previous amount from 1993 to 2005, Reuters reported, citing the study. Overall, white Americans between the ages of 20 and 54 experienced 26 strokes for every 100,000 people during the period previous to 1993. This rose to nearly 50 per 100,000 by 2005. Additionally, African Americans had a rise to 128 per 100,000 from the previous figure of 83. Obesity, high blood pressure and diabetes are the risk factors pinpointed in the study.

"We're definitely seeing a higher incidence of risk factors for stroke now," said Brett Kissela, lead researcher at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, according to the news source. "And if you're developing them at the age of 20, then you may have a stroke at a younger age too."

Those concerned about their brain health may want to speak with a physician on how to take measures to lower their risks of major issues. However, if they lack health insurance, it may be necessary to look for health insurance quotes online, as they may find a viable option.

Rigorous exercise aids heart health more than longer exercise

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 17 Oct 2012 19:00:00 -0500

A report from Bispebjerg University in Copenhagen, Denmark, found that more intense exercise sessions may boost an adult's heart health than actually exercising for a lengthy period of time.

Walking at a comfortable level for more than an hour gave no real benefit to those who tried to improve their cardiovascular health, the study found, according to MedPageToday. However, a fast walking pace was able to cut down heart ailment risks, such as metabolic syndrome, by half.

Metabolic syndrome was prevalent in more than one-third of males who were not active, the study explained. However, for those who had rigorous exercise regimens, this fell below 15 percent. For women, approximately 30 percent of inactive patients developed it, but only slightly more than 10 percent of active women had this issue.

"If results can be corroborated by intervention studies showing beneficial cardiovascular effects of increased walking speed, this may represent a low-cost intervention with minimal side effects and numerous significant health benefits," the study's authors noted, according to the news source.

Patients that want to help increase their exercise levels may want to speak with their physician. If they are uninsured, there may be multiple policies available that are equipped with affordable health insurance rates.

Expired drugs may still be usable

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 16 Oct 2012 19:00:00 -0500

A report published in the Archives of Internal Medicine showed that many expired medicines were still good, long after the date where it was labeled safe to use.

The test found that 12 of 14 medicines examined were still considered potent after their expiration date, Reuters Health reported, citing the study. In addition, there were drugs that were created 50 years earlier that still would have worked, if taken at this juncture.

"The vast majority of the samples tested contained at least their stated potency and therefore their active ingredient would still be viable," Lee Cantrell, director of the California Poison Control System, San Diego Division, and a professor of clinical pharmacy at University of California, San Francisco, told the news source.

Those patients who have prescriptions from their doctor should use them as directed. If they have expiring medicines, it may be a good idea to look ask a physician about what they should do. Those who feel they are spending too much on prescriptions may benefit by looking for a policy with lower health insurance rates.

Many older patients receive difficult care from family members

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 15 Oct 2012 19:00:00 -0500

A report from the AARP Public Policy Institute and the United Hospital Fund showed that nearly half of caregivers who are family members need to take care of difficult tasks for those elderly relatives with physical or cognitive issues.

When examining the percentage of caregivers who undertake these tasks, three-quarters gave patients medicine, through such methods as IVs and injections, the survey found. More than 30 percent noted they have dressed wounds that would be typically done by a doctor or nurse.

"We asked family caregivers how they learned to manage their family members' medications, for example, and 61 percent said, 'I learned on my own,'" explained Carol Levine, director of families and healthcare project for United Hospital Fund. "Clearly, professionals need to do a better job of training family caregivers."

Those who don't have the caregiving options they need may want to look for a more sufficient healthcare policy that could help achieve this. By comparing health insurance quotes with the patient's current option, it may be easier to find an offering that works.

Electronic health records can help improve diabetes monitoring

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Sun, 14 Oct 2012 19:00:00 -0500

A report published in the Annals of Internal Medicine showed that electronic health records mixed with other factors can help properly manage diabetes.

Overall, a combination of electronic health records, monitoring, proper drug treatment increases and controlling risk factors helped out patients who struggled with lipids and diabetes, Kaiser Permanente noted, citing the report.This is because electronic health records can aid in improving a doctor's ability to give more qualified treatment for those with the illness.

"Increases in information availability, decision support and order-entry functionality help clinicians to identify the most appropriate patients for drug-treatment intensification and retesting, which leads to better care of patients with diabetes," said Dr. Marc Jaffe, clinical leader of the cardiovascular risk reduction program for Kaiser Permanente Northern California.

If a person is concerned about their diabetes management, and their current doctor does not accomplish this in a way they are satisfied, it may be a good plan to look for another doctor. By looking at other health insurance quotes, a person may find an affordable policy to look at a better collection of physician options.

Pennsylvania resident should look at open enrollment, says PA Department of Insurance

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 11 Oct 2012 19:00:00 -0500

A recent report from the Pennsylvania Department of Insurance encouraged residents to look at multiple open enrollment options for their healthcare policies from their employer.

This open enrollment period is different than the Medicare version, which starts in November, the department noted. In addition to the selecting a healthcare policy, employees also can select wellness benefits, if available. This helps save money on a plan if they practice good health habits.

"During this specific time period, you can enroll in or switch health insurance plans," said Mike Consedine, insurance commissioner for the state of Pennsylvania. "Insurance carriers are required to accept all applicants of the group without underwriting or evidence of insurability so take advantage and compare the plans offered to you by your employer."

Consumers may still not be happy with their open enrollment options from their employer, which means that they could benefit from looking at other private insurance options. Looking at groups of health insurance quotes, there could be an option that is better than one offered by a consumer's employee.

Medical associations want cancellation of painkiller regulations for Medicare, Medicaid

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 10 Oct 2012 19:00:00 -0500

The American Society of Interventional Pain Physicians and the North American Neuromodulation Society recently released a statement that condemned the Medicare & Medicaid Services' plan to allow untrained nurses to be allowed to administer painkillers after surgery without formal training.

The policy would give certified nurse anesthetists and other nurse practitioners the ability to give patients addictive painkillers without the proper guidance and education, which could put some patients at risk. This is because these healthcare providers don't have the ability to make an accurate diagnosis, which is something that a doctor would be able to accomplish.

"This disregard to the education, board certifications, and training of medical physicians will be detrimental to patients, causing undue hardship and putting an increased financial burden on the healthcare system as poor results proliferate," said Dr. Laxmaiah Manchikanti, chairman of the board and CEO for ASIPP.

Those consumers who are on Medicare or Medicaid, and are concerned they won't be able to get the proper care needed if they fall ill, may benefit from looking at other, private health insurance quotes to see if they can get something that is more sufficient.

Many doctors don't provide patient medical notes

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 09 Oct 2012 19:00:00 -0500

A study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine showed that while doctors are legally required to give patients a note of medical information when asked, many have not done this, or they don't release it easily.

Between 60 and nearly 80 percent of those studied explained that reading the medical notes encouraged them to take medication as directed, the OpenNotes project found. Overall, the study showed that close to all of those patients examined were interested in getting increased access to their personal medical notes.

"Our greatest hope is that this will become a standard of care," Jan Walker, the study's author, told Kaiser Health News. "We're at a good time in history because more and more doctors and hospitals are getting electronic health records and putting up secure patient portals."

Consumers who are not happy with their physician, and are looking for another one, may want to expand their options by looking at multiple health insurance quotes. Other policies may help a patient find the proper care they need from a doctor they trust.

Exercise may help stroke victims recover

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 08 Oct 2012 19:00:00 -0500

Toronto-based health researchers recently found that stroke symptoms can be alleviated significantly from general exercise.

The study, led by Susan Marzolini, member of the Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, found that exercise can improve cognition by close to 50 percent, HealthDay reported. These results can occur within the first six months after the stroke incident. The exercises involved in the study included weight lifting, squats and general walking.

"People who have cognitive deficits after stroke have a threefold risk of mortality, and they're more likely to be institutionalized," said Marzolini, according to the news source. "If we can improve cognition through exercise, which also has many physical benefits, then this should become a standard of care for people following stroke."

Those patients who think they are at risk of a stroke or another serious illness, may want to ensure they have the proper health insurance coverage to get properly examined by a physician. If a person doesn't have a policy, or it is not one they are happy with, looking at other health insurance quotes may be an option.

Healthcare cost rise should be low in 2012

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Sun, 07 Oct 2012 19:00:00 -0500

A recent report from Aon Hewitt showed that the this year's level of healthcare premium rate increase should be at its lowest level in six years.

Overall, the average rate for employers this year should be less than 5 percent, which is significantly down from 2011's figure of 8.5 percent, the report explained. Additionally, the figure should be lower than the 6.2 percent recorded two years ago.

"An expected decline in employment levels and new costs resulting from health care reform had to be factored into expected costs, which led many employers and insurers to conservatively project their health care premiums for 2011," said Tim Nimmer, chief healthcare actuary at Aon Hewitt.

Consumers should take advantage of low healthcare premium rates now before they likely increase next year. By looking at multiple health insurance quotes, this process may be more fruitful. A good way to figure out what is needed is to examine the options a person currently has, and to see if the new policy's offering is cost-effective at this point.

Many healthcare entities not ready for health information exchange

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Thu, 04 Oct 2012 19:00:00 -0500

A survey from the ECRI Institute and s2a showed that only 54 percent of healthcare leaders have examined their organization's ability to have a healthcare exchange.

Thomas Skorup, vice president of ECRI Institute's Applied Solutions Group, explained that organizations that don't solve these issues could hurt the chances of successfully exchanging the information.

Failure to do this could also prevent companies from being compliant with the Meaningful Use policy from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, Skorup noted. Additionally, this could hurt costs for consumers, as a more streamlined process would lower overall expenses.

"Healthcare leaders know they need to create a fluid exchange of health information that allows them to demonstrate improved communication and coordination of care between providers," said John Evans, president of s2a. "But our data show that they need assistance in navigating the twists and turns of achieving interoperability."

Issues involving the switch to electronic information exchanges could affect healthcare costs, including health insurance rates. In order to ensure that a policy is not expensive, it may be a good idea and find low-cost health insurance quotes, as there may be a sufficient option for consumers.

Many states will use healthcare exchanges, says PwC

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Wed, 03 Oct 2012 19:00:00 -0500

A report from PricewaterhouseCoopers showed that several states plan to run health insurance exchanges on their own, in order to stay in line with the government's healthcare reform plan.

Overall, 13 states, as well as Washington, D.C., plan to use their own exchanges, the report noted. Additionally, 37 states will use the federal government's help to complete their task. Of those, eight will use a process that is directly set-up by the federal government.

"The exchanges will serve a group of people who may be purchasing insurance for the first time," said Kelly Barnes, health industries leader for PwC. "Companies seeking to capture this new customer base must work quickly to understand the distinct needs of this group and develop ways to communicate with them in clear, understandable terms."

This system, as well as the many changes under the Affordable Care Act, may make some consumers uneasy or confused about the situation. In order to avoid this, it may be a good idea to upgrade a policy now. Comparing health insurance quotes online may help a person find a plan that is stronger than their current option.

Fewer Americans make doctor's office trips

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Tue, 02 Oct 2012 19:00:00 -0500

A report from the Census Bureau showed that the number of American adults who visited the doctor in 2010 declined from the level seen in 2001.

Overall, the average was 4.8 visits per person to medical personnel in 2001, but this declined to 3.9 visits in 2010, the report explained. Those in poor health experienced a medical visit frequency drop from nearly 13 visits to approximately 11.5 visits. Those with a good health record experienced a drop from 5.3 to 4.2 trips, while those in excellent health fell to 2.5 visits from the previous figure of 3.2.

"The decline in the use of medical services was widespread, taking place regardless of health status," said Brett O'Hara, chief of the Census Bureau's Health and Disability Statistics Branch.

Consumers who feel they cannot afford a visit to the doctor may benefit from finding a policy that is stronger than their current option. There may be multiple plans with affordable health insurance rates available online, and comparing the current option with these may be the best way to see which new policy is the strongest.

Minnesota panel thinks healthcare exchanges offer too much

nospam@example.com (Brafton) — Mon, 01 Oct 2012 19:00:00 -0500

A meeting involving the Minnesota Health Insurance Exchange Advisory Task Force noted that the planned Affordable Care Act changes to healthcare exchanges could overwhelm some customers, according to the Duluth News Tribune.

The group explained that creating an insurance exchange for a whole state could turn out far too many results, which could discourage and confuse customers. Too many options makes the exchange, which was meant to help consumers find options, nearly unusable, the panel explained to the news source. Due to this, the panel wants to create a new initiative to make policies meet certain standards to show the main differences between each option.

"We're one of the few states to really have some of the infrastructure discussion put together," said James Schowalter, commissioner of Minnesota Management and Budget, according to the news source. "We are making the milestones that the federal government is asking us to meet."

Those consumers who want to avoid the major changes coming to healthcare in 2014 may want to look for a policy now. Comparing a person's current plan with other health insurance quotes could help make finding the right policy easier.