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The US Department of Health and Human Services three months after the adoption of the Medicare bill in the Senate to implement health insurance pools for high-risk. High risk pools are a temporary measure and will be effective until 2014. After 2014, insurance companies will no longer be able to deny coverage to people with health insurance because of pre-existing conditions.

The HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius wrote to governors and state insurance commissioners to establish the rules for the programs last week by The Wall Street Journal . Secretary Sebelius states offer five different options for swimming pools.

States will have to choose one of the following:

• States with existing high-risk pools (about 34 states) can add a new pool;
• states that do not have existing high-risk pools will begin pools;
• States can build on other programs to cover high-risk adults;
• States may contract a carrier to provide coverage, or;
• If a state prefers to do nothing, HHS will implement coverage in the state.

States have had a rough history with high-risk pools and the success of these pools is often debated. Only adults who were without health insurance plans for at least six months and have a pre-existing condition can reach high-risk pools.

The Medicare plans should operate by 1 July 2010, which presents the HHS with a challenge. Many critics do not believe that the HHS has enough time to implement high-risk pools and that $ 5 billion will not be enough to make affordable high risk pools.

The insurance pools to top risk nationwide will be set up this summer by the Department of Health and Human services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius. States can extend existing high-risk pools, pools start based on a state contract with pools of insurance companies or let the HHS take control of the entire pool.

Georgia, a conservative state rather than the individual mandate, is the first to declare publicly that he will leave the HHS take control of high-risk pools.

According to the Associated Press, the insurance commissioner John Oxendine Georgia fears that the high-risk pools will cost more than the federal government expected. He believes that taxes will be imposed on residents in the future. Oxendine said, "I will not submit Georgia taxpayers and the treasury of Georgia to something that will be a burden for them. "

High-risk pools throughout the country are a temporary solution that will provide coverage to people with pre-existing conditions. The law on health care, $ 5 billion has been set aside for the program, but many experts are uncertain if it will be enough.

State officials have received a letter from Secretary Sebelius last month that gave states until April 30 to determine their approach to the pools. There are 34 states that have existing high-risk pools, but people in the pools are facing higher premiums. the government has decided to put money in the pools in efforts to provide affordable health insurance.

Who knows, for now states without high risk pools in place, it may be more financially sound to let the HHS run the pools and save on administrative costs.

The California Assembly Health Committee presented a bill yesterday that will start the online market according to federal health care legislation.

The Assembly President John Perez believes the bill creates the framework for the exchange of California that will need to be effective by 2014. Some critics argue that the measure is premature, but officials in California will need time to establish the exchange notes of San Francisco Chronicle .

President Perez believes that the new bill will allow the state to do what it takes to federal legislation, while creating new jobs.

The exchanges will allow individuals and small business owners to buy health insurance online and small businesses will be able to come together to act as a large group. Exchanges, also called markets, will enable consumers to be able to shop and compare health insurance quotes, much like GoHealthInsurance.com. People who are eligible for federal grants will be able to apply for these online.

However, the details on how state exchanges work and how the new laws on the legislation on federal health care will interact with the old laws have not been determined. The Ministry of Health and Social Services should establish federal exchanges that will help states model their exchanges in the month.

"The exchange will play a central role in the ultimate implementation of the new law, as conceived today," said Marian Mulkey, program the main agent in the California HealthCare Foundation.

States will have sufficient time to set up their government contracts and make sure they conform to federal law. It will be interesting to see what they produce.

Reports and surveys are causing a wave of concern among experts health care and health care consumers. Hospitals charge a variety of different prices for the same medical procedures throughout the country.

According to The Los Angeles Times in northern California hospital costs for hip replacement surgery can cost a patient $ 41,000, $ 85,000 or $ 103,000 depending what the hospital of consumer visits to Southland.

Now, doctors and hospitals in California are working with health insurance companies to make changes. In August, some of the best California health care providers will work with Aetna, Blue Shield of California, CIGNA and HealthNet California to launch a pilot program for the flat rate.

fixed price should cover the costs of surgery treatments to 0 days of recovery. It is still uncertain what procedures will be covered and if chronic conditions are covered in the pilot program. Consumers will be charged only once and the cost of this burden will always rely on the hospital that provided care.

The program has the potential to provide better care for patients while reducing the costs of health care and administrative costs for health insurance companies and hospitals.

government is now testing a similar program Right to Medicare in four states and the new law on health insurance can explore these options for surgical services provided to elderly and poor.

Dr. Richard Afable, CEO of Hoag Memorial Orange County said: "We want to be innovative. This is not to make money. It is about how we align financial arrangements so that we can achieve the best patient outcomes while reducing costs for all concerned. "

In the coming days, we will focus on managed- ? care plans to cover angle. First, let's discuss why someone might choose a Health Maintenance Organization (HMO plan) to another health insurance policy.

The best part is they are HMO insurance plans more affordable disease. They are cheaper than other managed care plans and require only a low premium and copayment for health care services. Most political HMO will not be necessary for consumers to meet an annual deductible before their kicks from Medicare coverage.

Medicare HMO plans offer full coverage by providing preventive care, hospital and specialist care, outpatient surgeries and of course, prescription drugs.

Although many consumers believe that this may be the best deal around, they should be careful because HMO plans cover only the network providers. Visit off-network healthcare providers cost consumers more.

Once a consumer signs for an HMO policy, the insurance company will allow you to let them know what network provider they belong to and ask them to choose a primary care physician (PCP) . A consumer must see a PCP for all diseases or injuries. Then, if a PCP believes that a patient should see a specialist, the PCP will refer the patient to one. Without this reference, a health insurance company will not provide cover.

Consumers should not worry about finding doctors in networks provided by insurance companies because they usually 1000s doctors in the network. For consumers who already have a PCP and do not want change should ask the insurance company if this CFP will network before purchasing coverage.

Over the last two weeks we spent on health Maintenance organizations (HMOs) and preferred provider organizations (PPOs), today we will talk about another type of managed care plan, point of service plans (POS).

A POS plan is a combination of a PPO and HMO providing great features of both managed care policies at an affordable price.

POS plans provide coverage for off-grid or health care provider network. This offers consumers the flexibility of a PPO plan that allows them to seek health care services they want. However, as a PPO plan, out-of-network providers are more expensive than the network providers.

Consumers with a POS plan will have more flexibility than consumers with HMO plans, but they both need a primary care physician (PCP). Consumers with a primary care doctor will see the doctor when they need medical care, then they want to see a PCP will refer a specialist for the consumer. This reference helps consumers receive the most coverage of their health insurance plan.

POS plans offer the same type of coverage PPO and HMO plans provide. These health insurance plans provide coverage for prescriptions, preventive and routine services, emergency and hospital care.

POS plans allow consumers to see a large network of doctors, specialists and other health care providers while providing cost reduction benefits.

For more information on POS plans and their benefits, visit our Information Centre for health insurance and check other options that are available.

As if the federal government has not have enough to worry the continuing constitutional reform of health insurance, they will now defend against another trial. This lawsuit was filed by the American Medical Association, American Osteopathic Association and the Medical Society of the District of Columbia that would block the Federal Trade Commission to impose new regulations on physicians.

According to ModernHealthcare.com , these regulations require physicians to implement "red flags" rules that could help prevent, detect and reduce fraud and identity theft. Currently financial institutions, banks and mortgage lenders must comply with the "red flags" of regulations, but many argue that health care providers are not financial institutions.

The FTC believes that doctors and health care providers are creditors because they extend credit to patients. Based on the fact that they provide health care services without initial payment and then invoice the so-insurance companies to the postponement of debt.

Red Flag Regulations were rejected in the past but unless lawmakers pushing the regulations yet, health care providers must comply with the rules of June 1. Regulations require physicians to examine the risks for insurance fraud and then place a program to address the "red flags" to alert them. Doctors who do not comply with the law could face a $ 2,500 fine for each offense.

The new regulations might require more administrative support and additional burdens for doctors. The government may try to fight against Medicare fraud, but should be aware of the impact regulations have on physicians without providing any benefit to patients.

More and more states have been demanding health insurance companies to provide benefits to children with autism. Although Michigan does not require health insurers to provide autism services, a new trial may have more health insurance companies offering the benefits anyway.

According to Insurance News Net, a judge in Michigan ruled that Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan is to pay a sum of $ 125,000 to Cheryl Matthews. Matthews continued Blue Cross when the company did not pay the insurance claims of $ 38,000 for the treatment of applied behavior analysis given to autistic son Matthews.

Blue Cross had denied the allegations under the belief that Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy was not an approved form of medical treatment under insurance policy Matthews Matthews disease. Blue Cross has sought to dismiss the case, but Judge Prentis Edwards of Wayne County Circuit Court rejected the company's motions requiring Blue Cross to settle or go to trial.

ABA is a treatment used for autism spectrum disorders and help autistic children perform daily activities. Although many states require insurers to pay for ABA therapy for children with autism, Michigan has not passed a similar law - which is very expensive to cover.

The lawyer Matthews think this is the first colony to show the connection inability of children with autism spectrum disorders for applied behavior analysis therapy and increased future costs of care health due to the decline in operating these children disorder. They say that these trials will continue as long as insurers deny ensure ABA therapy.

It will be interesting to see how many trials like this continue without the legislation support.

As much as 24 million Americans will to purchase health insurance in 2014. as health insurance companies are competing for all these new consumers, they add and measure customer service programs to give consumers a better and more efficient experience health care.

In recent years, health insurance companies have made efforts to deliver benefits to consumers as wellness and prevention. These benefits provide access to programs they may not be able to afford - like smoking during weaning, weight loss programs or discounts for gym memberships.

Now, health insurers are adding new benefits of customer service to their plans. According to The Los Angeles Times , insurers make it easier for consumers to understand insurance by cutting the "jargon of insurance of their communications disease. "

Highmark Inc., a Blue Cross Blue Shield carrier in Pennsylvania opened retail stores to help people answer questions and offer wellness classes. This insurer already has two stores . retail and plans to open three more this year

Joe Mondy, spokesman CIGNA said: "We see the challenges in terms of customer service going higher and higher."

for some consumers picking the right plan that offers the best customer service could improve their health care. More health insurance companies can advertise their service rankings for customers as they compete for more customers and work to keep consumers on their health insurance plans.

Competition in the customer service, ultimately, improve the overall consumer experience when searching for appropriate insurance coverage insurance.

Yesterday was the first day that the Obama administration defended reform unconfined healthcare tribunal against Virginia. It marks a long battle that the federal government will have to deal with what is only 1 of 21 prosecution of the state, they will face.

The Judge Henry E. Hudson heard the arguments of both sides and will have 30 days to decide whether the state has the standing of the federal government as The Washington Post . The federal government doesn "t believe Virginia land to continue because the provision of the law that Virginia is difficult, the individual health insurance mandate affects individuals, not the state.

But Virginia believes it has legal grounds to continue from Virginia passed a law that would allow residents to withdraw from the individual mandate, which requires Americans to buy health insurance or pay a fine.

at the heart of the debate, Virginia believes the federal government has overstepped its constitutional authority by requiring individuals to buy health insurance. the Obama administration argues that a person who does not buy insurance is engaged in the activity economic which can be set by Congress as interstate commerce, because everyone eventually uses health care

Representing the Obama administration, Deputy Attorney General Ian Gershengorn health said. "everyone uses health services. And most importantly, you can not guarantee that you will withdraw. You can not guarantee that you will not be hit by a bus. "

If the Hudson judge decides to hear the case, it will then decide whether the federal government oversteps its limits in the fall.

While the Obama administration hopes to have a use national electronic health records (EHR) by 2014, rules were issued so that health care providers know how to comply. In the original draft health reform law, rules were established to reward health care providers for "meaningful use" of EHRs, but health care providers found these unrealistic goals. Now the Obama administration has set new rules for meaningful use so that more providers will be able to achieve these goals.

The electronic health records will streamline the delivery of medical services, patient information and health insurance plans. EHR will also help patients access their online health records and help doctors avoid medical errors.

According to The New York Times , doctors and hospitals could receive up to $ 27 billion over the next 10 years. Under Medicare, a doctor can receive up to $ 44,000 and $ 63,750 under Medicaid.

The rules of origin are said to be too strict and was an "all or nothing". At first, doctors were to meet at least 25 criteria set by the federal government, now they have only to reach 15 requirements and will select five goals in 10. Also the doctors will have more latitude regarding prescription drugs online.

In 2015, health care providers could receive financial penalties under Medicare or Medicare payment cuts if they aren "t using EHRs.

the new rules will help doctors and hospitals implement electronic health records in a timely and orderly rhythm.

As the costs of Medicare and government spending on health care continues to rise, many people are looking for ways to cut costs. A recent report by the American Enterprise Institute (AEI) examines the costs associated with brand name drugs and Medicaid spending.

AEI observed two thirds of the $ 21.8 billion spent by Medicaid on drugs last year as The Hill . Research by AEI found that Medicaid could save $ 271 million by using generic instead of brand name drugs for only 20 prescription drugs. They also found that, of that $ 271 million, only 2 drugs made for $ 95 million in spending.

Ralph Neas, head of the National Coalition on Health Care, said: "The rise in pharmaceutical costs, the aging population and the increased use of expensive specialty drugs containing makes spending a priority of the emergency health system closely related to drug linked to the expansion of access to care and improving quality. "

Unfortunately, the reform of health care has did little to control rising costs of the health care industry and efforts to import drugs from Canada were crushed in the debate on health care.

Instead, the reform of health care focused on the insurance industry without looking at disease of the reasons the cost of insurance increases health. There are many factors behind health insurance rates and payment requirements brands is just one of them.

Many health insurance companies offer better costs for generic drugs because they are much more affordable. Still many brand name drugs have patents that protect them for years. Until these patents are dry, the cost of branded drugs will remain high for the government, health insurance companies and the Americans.

Recently, companies health insurance discussed stopping the sale of individual health insurance plans for children because of a provision of the reform of health care. As of September 23, 2010, health insurers will no longer be able to deny children with insurance coverage for pre-existing conditions.

Many insurance companies were worried that without an open enrollment period for children to enroll in the health insurance coverage, adults would only sign the children when they were sick, then abandon politics.

Nancy-Ann Min DeParle, director of the Office of the White House Health Reform, said: "Some state insurance commissioners have expressed concern that, without open enrollment period which was widely communicated, people might wait until their children are sick to enroll for coverage, causing plans' costs to increase. "

in response to these concerns the Department of health and Human services (HHS) has issued some guidelines for health insurance companies and for children with pre-existing conditions. HHS will allow health insurance companies to issue a open enrollment period for children under 19.

health insurers will issue their own open enrollment period, but must follow the state laws because some states already have guidelines set place for the registration periods.

The open enrollment periods will help reduce costs for insurers and health for children who already have individual insurance policies. It will also ensure that children with pre-existing conditions have access to the market for private insurance.

Many insurance companies health and small business groups in Massachusetts are upset over new health legislation that requires coverage of expensive treatments.

The state has more than three dozen mandated health care and the government has just been added to this number according to The Boston Herald .

Recently, a law was passed to create new coverage mandates for postpartum depression. In addition, the expansion of coverage of infantile autism was passed by the Massachusetts legislature, which will probably double premiums of $ 34 million to $ 68 million each year.

Representative Barbara L'Italien suggested that if children are treated early autism, it may end up saving money over the long term before their condition deteriorates. And believes that consumers will see an increase of 83 percent on their monthly premiums.

Yet small businesses are those most affected by the costs of mandatory health care than larger firms typically provide health insurance plans that are regulated by federal mandates - no the state.

The lawmakers said the new draft law on autism will allow health insurance companies to withdraw to offer coverage for autism if they have evidence that premium costs will increase more than one percent.

There "will be difficult for insurance companies to keep covering the most expensive health procedures as they face mandatory price caps imposed by lawmakers in Massachusetts. Sooner or later, something" is going to have to give somewhere along the line.

Although new high-risk pools are made to benefit those with pre -existing terms - not everything the world will benefit.

Twenty-two states have decided to leave the federal government runs the high risk pools that were open for registration on July 1. According to The Times Dispatch n early August it 'there were about 2,500 candidates across the 22 states that were open for enrollment.

Why the low enrollment when so many people in need of health insurance coverage?

Experts estimate that premiums and deductibles for high-risk pools may be too high for some people. This is a major concern because rates that pools high risk manager can not be higher than the average rates for healthy people in the private market and were made to be affordable.

For example, the pool health insurance Virginia high risk premiums that range from $ 289 per month for those up to age 34 to $ 616 per month for more than 55.

While people with pre-existing conditions couldn "t get coverage before - they now have access to health insurance policies and even though it". is cheaper than the pools typical high risk, some people still can "t afford in this economy

It will be interesting to see how many people sign up for swimming at high risk over the next two years. from 2014, the health insurance companies will no longer be able to deny people coverage because of medical conditions and people are required to buy insurance. But if people can "afford t cover now it can be an indicator of what is to come in the future.

reform health care advocates have repeatedly promised that people can keep their health insurance benefits if they like to reform. Now, a new report shows that seniors with Medicare Part D may have to find a new plan for next year.

According to Associated Press as much as 3 million people could be forced to change prescription drug plans next year. And change is the result of the federal government is trying to make Medicare more simple and easy to use.

The elderly will not lose Medicare Part D benefits but will choose another plan, which could lead to different premiums and co-insurance.

health insurance companies that provide health insurance have been told they can not offer a plan of Part D "basic" in one place for 2011. By cutting plans double and the like - millions of seniors will have to choose a different plan.

Even the deputy administrator for Medicare, Jonathon Blum rejected this idea and think the report is just a guess.

Anyway, in 2011, there will be about 30 Medicare Part D plan for the elderly to choose instead of 40 plans. The Center for Medicare and Medicaid should publish a list of prescription drug plans next month.

He won 'be t confusion for seniors signature for Medicare Part D for the first time. However, older people who have Medicare Plans Part D which are no longer available will probably have to choose a new plan.

Governor Tim Pawlenty of Minnesota effectively blocked receive specific federal funds that are available under the new law on health insurance. Pawlenty, who could be a presidential candidate in 2012, ordered the Minnesota isn "t allowed to receive federal funds to finance grants and demonstration projects for the reform unless it approves.

Pawlenty thinks the reform of health care burden on States and encroach on the reports of personal freedoms the Wall Street Journal . many Democrats said the governor just trying to strengthen its image and presidential ambitions with Republican voters who are opposed to the reform of health care. But Mr. Pawlenty outlined its actions have nothing to do with his personal political agenda.

what Governor Pawlenty has done is show how the individual states might have regarding the implementation of the new health legislation. Democrats said that state law that was passed earlier this year requires Minnesota to ask to receive $ 1 million to help launch a health insurance exchange program in the state. However Pawlenty doesn "t plan on implementation of the insurance exchange grant disease before maturity in 2014.

governor also turned down" s implementation Minnesota for a $ 850,000 grant regarding an adolescent prevention program pregnancy. But he did approve one for $ 500,000 to help promote abstinence, which means that the state will pay $ 379,000 to match the federal money.

The long and short of the situation is that many people feel Minnesota residents will suffer because they do not receive health insurance benefits they could get. Pawlenty and "political beliefs prevent Minnesota to take part of the reform of health care.

At a press conference Friday, President Barack Obama admitted that his administration knew that Medicare costs will increase for reform.

President Obama said, "Therefore give us 30 million additional people health care, at the margin" s will increase our costs - we knew we did not want "t think we would cover. 30 million people for free. "

The interview came after the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has published an article saying that spending on health care will increase by 6.3 percent per year on average for the next 10 years, while the projections before the reform predicted annual increases of 6.1 percent.

many experts and studies have shown that reforming health care will not bend the cost curve that was the one of the main benefits that has been touted by the Democrats.

President Obama responded to these recent criticisms and said he admitted at the beginning of the reform that bending the cost curve is a long-term process that will take many years.

"so our goal in health care is if we can get up health care costs going up 6 percent a year it 's going up in inflation, perhaps slightly above inflation, we "ve made tremendous progress," said President Obama.

Getting health insurance costs and the cost of health care in the inflation rate would be a huge goal for Democrats to strike but only time will tell if this occurs.

In a shock to the Americans, the federal government recently announced that Medicare advantage premiums will actually decrease by 1 percent for 2011 many expected insurance premiums experts will new benefits offered by the reform of health care, but will not decrease.

reform health care Medicare officials gave new powers to reject and negotiate Offers Advantage reports The New York Times . So they didn "t accept premium increases or benefit reductions.

John K. Gorman, who was a Medicare official and is now a consultant in the health insurance sector said: "today's announcement" shows that there is a new sheriff in town. Medicare officials were very specific and very energetic. "

There are currently 11 million seniors enrolled in Medicare Advantage enrollment and is estimated to grow by 5 percent next year.

The deputy head of the agency Medicare, Jonathon Blum said: "We negotiated more aggressively than in the past Consequently, some plans changed their bids to produce more value for beneficiaries"

tO. following these negotiations provides Medicare benefits improved on average $ 13 per member per month or 5 percent -. Save Medicare beneficiaries across the country.

There are still 300 planes that are being reviewed by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid. It is expected that only 5 percent of the beneficiaries of Medicare Advantage will choose a new plan because their plan is offered on the market.

The elderly, who were less supportive of reform than other groups, have something to celebrate.

A new report shows that one in five people of Chicago went without health insurance as some point in 09. About 20 percent of the population were without health insurance in Chicago, but overall only 13 percent of Illinois does not have insurance.

The Chicago Tribune blame the recession and poor economy as the main reason behind the uninsured increases.

Doug Schenkelberg, associate director at Heartland Alliance said: "People have lost their jobs ... and more people don

Yet there was good news for Illinois residents that children were more likely to be insured in 09 than in 08. Illinois health insurance rates for children were about 95 percent 09 and were 94 percent last year -. make a modest increase

Medicare expansion for children and children whose parents do too much for Medicaid illegal immigrants cost Illinois residents $ 70 million in 09. Illinois taxpayers' insurance money provided for 94,500 children.

Illinois Healthcare and director of family services Julie Hamos said, "Illinois is proud to be among the first states to cover children, and is delighted that the new data show that 95 percent of all Illinois' children have health insurance of some sort "

other states that had low uninsured rate for children in 09 included: .. Iowa, New York, Massachusetts, Vermont, Hawaii and Connecticut

Three House Republicans, Joe Barton, John Shimkus and Michael Burgess, recently sent letters to governors 50 states and the District of Columbia to wonder how they will implement the reform of health care. The letter contained nine questions focused on the cost of the reform of health care.

The Hill reports that the States have been asked to return the nine answers in two weeks may be well out of reach for some. States were asked to estimate the costs until 2023 and includes the expansion of Medicaid, administrative costs, registration fees and the impact of payment cuts to hospitals.

The letter said: "Much of the responsibility - and cost - the implementation of these new provisions will fall to the states. Given the important role that States play in the implementation of legislation and the difficult budgetary situation in many states, Congress must understand the impact of the legislation of each state "s budget and what measures each State to take finance these additional expenditures. "

Meanwhile, the federal government spent more than $ 8.7 million on the new site that will serve to HealthCare.gov Insurance Exchange national disease.

States have already donated $ 1 million in grants to spend on further exchanges of state health, but they expect to receive in the future. If states do not want to administer the exchange, the federal government is running the exchange of state. but if it costs the federal government $ 8.7 million in six months, how states can afford it?

Today, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Kathleen Sebelius sent a letter to the national Association of insurance Commissioners (NAIC) on the choice of states and health insurance companies to offer child-only health insurance policies.

The answer comes weeks after the insurers have decided to stop selling child policy solely because of a provision in the reform of health care that guarantees children's health insurance, regardless of health status. Insurers have decided to drop the coverage that other companies have left the market and clarification of open enrollment periods was not given. But after beating the insurance industry up to their decisions to leave the market, HHS has proposed solutions.

In the letter, Sebelius proposed:

• Insurers can determine the number and duration of open enrollment periods for children as long as it complies with legislation the State.
• The rates may be adjusted by the children's health status as long as it is allowed in the state.
• States and insurers may impose a surcharge when people drop coverage and reapply.
• Propose regulations to prevent employers encourage workers to move kids to policies only children instead of group policies.

Some states already require health insurance companies to provide health insurance regardless of preconditions for adults and existing children. But in other states, there is no guarantee that insurers will re-enter the market.

Kathleen Sebelius said: "Nothing in the Act on the Affordable Care or any other current federal law, allows us to require insurance companies to offer a particular type of policy at this time. "

players In a surprising move, the NFL is considering abandoning and their families' coverage of 'insurance in the spring, if the association can not reach an agreement with the players' union. "While the NFL is facing a situation lockout, dropping coverage could be a major reason that union rushes to reach an agreement.

The spokesman Greg Aiello noted that if NFL players lost their cover they could always use COBRA to continue existing coverage of reports USA Today . Aiello said: "This means that no player or member of the family would be a change in coverage for as much as a single day because of a work stoppage. The union surely knows this and there is no excuse to think otherwise. "

Even the NFL spokesman should note that COBRA is only a temporary situation and unions or players will pick up the tab. Once COBRA coverage runs, players and their families will . buy their own coverage Medicare

Roger Goodell, the NFL commissioner said: "It 's been treated in other circumstances and other trading positions, where unions have willing to pay for their COBRA care. C "is the question. They "ll continue to get medical care. It ''s just that the burden of paying for it will not be on the clubs, it would be on individuals or the union. "

The 2011 lockout has become more realistic than the NFL and the players' union continue to struggle to reach an agreement.

As the attacks against the reform and health care politicians were preparing last month for congressional elections, one must to what extent these TV ads go. at least two television networks have now drawn attack ads that distort the truth and tell complete lies about reforming health care.

Steve Rabb, who works for the Fox affiliate in Connecticut, pulled the network ads after ads have been proven inaccurate.

According to CQ Politics, American Action Network finance the extreme television commercials and has spent about $ 23 million on ads with at least $ 10 million spent in two weeks.

In the following announcement - which was pulled from Colorado networks -. Girl claims, "You should check the article I just sent you Apparently, convicted rapists can get Viagra paid by the new project health care law. Viagra for rapists? with my taxes? And Perlmutter member voted for it. "

Although many people may have problems with the reform of health care, these ads go too far and are creating even more confusion about the reform. Consumers should ensure they base their opinions on credible sources.

While mobile applications are increasingly popular, health care applications most continue to hit the market. These mobile applications can be used to improve health care and help women live a healthy life.

Women trying to conceive, avoid pregnancy and monitoring cycles can use mobile applications. Ago period Calendar Deluxe, iLady, menstruation and ovulation Pro and more. These are great for girls who are just starting menstruation, to visit the doctor and for women trying to get pregnant.

There are also many applications for women who are pregnant, including fertility Tracker, My Baby 's Name and Pregnancy Calendar. These applications keep track of the baby "development s, send tips daily and baby names. There is also the contraction timers that the contraction of time intervals to help pregnant women prepare for childbirth.

intelligent prenatal provides an easy way to determine if foods should be avoided and are ready to eat.

In women who prefer the texts, national health mothers and healthy babies of the Coalition of groups have combined to provide a texting program to promote a healthy pregnancy and child health Text4baby.org called. Women who sign it to receive weekly texts organizations.

An application called MyOBGYN is for pregnant and non-pregnant women who answers questions that are typically asked in OBGYN visits.

Of course there are many other mobile applications that women can use, including nutrition calculators and trackers that help women keep counting calories and nutrients they ingest. There are pharmacy and health insurance applications, personal health records that help women keep track of their medical records and exercise programs.

__gVirt_NP_NNS_NNPS <__ waivers In recent months, the Department of Health and services (HHS) has implemented a limited income and health insurance plans mini-med as reported by the Corner coverage. These exceptions are now receiving criticism from Senate Democrats who believe that mini-med plans are worse than nothing.

The HHS defended waivers because without these plans of many low-wage and part-time workers would probably not have coverage. Thus, HHS believes these mini-med plans are better than nothing. In 2014, these workers will have options on health insurance exchanges and plans for a mini-med will be completely excluded.

Mini-med plans provide little coverage with annual limits and capped some advantages. Opponents argue that the waivers individuals with these plans do not fully understand what they are buying and how little coverage of these plans actually provide.

Senator John Rockefeller IV said. "It" is worse than nothing because of false expectations and false hopes "

Up to 1.4 million Americans are currently enrolled in mini-med plans are usually part-time or seasonal workers reports Reuters . These people will be able to purchase more comprehensive coverage of health insurance in 2014 on trade and may be eligible for grants as well. Otherwise, many plans may be financially out of reach which is one reason why many part-time workers are currently on limited plans.

The pressure for a Republican to repeal health care reform died in the Senate, 47- 51. Last month, the House of Representatives passed the repeal with no guarantee that it would actually become law. In fact, President Barack Obama has promised to veto the bill first and the Senate refused to vote.

Well, the Senate finally voted on it, after the federal judge declared the law unconstitutional in Florida. Now, the Supreme Court will decide the constitutionality and the future of the bill when it reaches the court - which could be years.

However, the Senate passed the repeal of a provision of the reform that requires all small businesses to file documents on goods and services that cost more than $ 0. This assertion would put a heavy burden on businesses and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Nearly all Democrats support the repeal of this provision, including President Obama.

Republicans believed that voting for the repeal give Democrats a second chance to think about their first vote for reform and "to listen to those who have been desperately trying to get your attention."

Yahoo! News reports that Democrats are trying to avoid the political implications of the reform because 22 seats will be up for election in 2012. If the Democrats lose their majority in the Senate, Republicans have the majority in both chambers .

Democrats continue to tout the benefits of reform and Republicans will continue to focus on the most controversial parts of the reform.

last minutes Need gift ideas for the health nut or person suffering from health problems and stress? . Discover the top five health and wellness books of 2010 for a double bed

The Wall Street Journal found these health books stand out:

1. "After diagnosis: Transcending chronic disease," written by Julian Seifter and his wife, Betsy Seifter This book will help individuals manage chronic diseases while preserving personal identity

2. "Back to life after a heart attack: a doctor and his wife share their 8-Step cardiac Comeback Plan," by Marc Wallack and Jamie Colby - another couple duo a great book for anyone suffering from. . heart disease or a family history of heart disease It addresses issues of real life that people suffering from a heart attack and their partners face -. including suspicion of sexual behavior

3. "Stress Less: the new science that shows women how rejuvenate the body and mind," Thea Singer. This is written for women, but is still applicable to men and help women live healthier.

4. "The decision tree. Take control of your health in the new era of personalized medicine," Tom Goetz This book helps individuals become consumers access to health care and take control of their health by using the Internet, social media and web applications

5. "Stay healthy at any age. what your doctor wants you to know," by Shantanu Nundy. Dr. Nundy provides guidelines and recommendations for health screenings, vaccinations and examinations for all ages - could also be a great gift for new parents.

There are a variety of health insurance policies for students providing coverage levels and different benefits. After the reform of health care adopted on Corner coverage reported that many college plans were uncertain if they were to comply with the reform of regulations because they provide temporary insurance coverage and no long term.

Fortunately for students of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has determined that the college plans must comply with the new regulations. Health insurance plans for students will no longer have a lifetime limit on benefits and the elderly under Medicare coverage will be guaranteed 18.

Recently there have been investigations in terms of colleges that provide few benefits, life and have annual limits. The main problem is that colleges require students to purchase coverage before attending the classroom and letting students or with plans that are insufficient or providing the resources to find individual health insurance.

colleges still will be able to offer student plans in the annual limits until 23 September 2012. But students who want coverage protected by the reform can buy individual plans or try to get on the health insurance plan of their parents.

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

March is National Nutrition Month and The Corner coverage highlights some mobile applications provide nutritional information to help consumers make healthier decisions.

The Corner Coverage recommend trying one of these mobile applications:

• Lose weight with friends but do not know how to compare the results? Health Cubby try to connect with seven friends to achieve weight loss goals and counting calories.
• Mint Nutrition found the food and the nutritional values ​​of favorite meals. This application allows users to make better food choices in restaurants and when cooking at home.
• The carrot allows individuals to keep a nutrition log, record blood pressure, diabetes and track workouts.
• The Restaurant Nutrition application allows users to keep track of eating habits of more than one person and includes the nutritional values ​​of about 0 restaurants, mostly fast food and 30,000 food products.
• Fooducate is a great application that consumers are at the grocery store, but do not know or do not completely understand the nutritional value of an item. This application allows grocery shoppers to scan UPCs on food that displays nutritional indicators and healthier alternatives.
• Keep track of food, weight and exercise regimes with calorie counter. The calorie counter gives an eating schedule and allows users to find the nutritional values ​​of foods by scanning the UPC, similar to Fooducate.

There are also a number of applications for vegans who are looking for places to eat, cookbook apps and weight loss applications. For more information on National Nutrition Month visit EatRight.org.

The beginning of April marks more day with April Fools Month autism awareness. Autism affects 1 100 children and the numbers continue to grow causing many health experts to worry.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention even called autism a national public health crisis because of its unknown cause or cure. Although extensive therapy and treatments help autistic children develop and learn, many have trouble giving him or find access.

Autism Speaks has recently conducted a study to rank the cities on the quality of life of people with autism and their families. Top 10 cities include Chicago, Philadelphia, Boston, Seattle, Los Angeles, New York, Cleveland, Milwaukee, Minneapolis, and parts of northern New Jersey.

The survey was conducted to highlight the particular problems and autistic families when it comes to obtain services and resources.

The co-founder of Autism Speaks, Bob Wright, said: "These survey results confirm what we hear every day from families - they struggle to get their services for children who are essential to their development and well-being to them. "

the provision of health care and intensive autism treatment is expensive. Currently, some states require health insurance companies to cover certain therapies and treatments for autistic children. But these therapies and treatments vary widely.

some people may also have trouble getting time off to work to care for a child with autism or need time off to care for children. overall, only 26 percent of respondents in the study were satisfied with the services and resources that are available.

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is working to bring students to consider their health insurance options as they are about to graduate. Working with universities and student groups, the HHS try to let young adults know the benefits of the reform of health care.

The reform allows students and young adults to remain on the health insurance plan of their parents until they turn 26. In the past, many students should get their own plan if they have dropped out of university or graduation.

The HHS asked the universities to put a badge on university Web sites pointing to government information. Also the administration will send brochures that can be downloaded, using their student Facebook page and also works with groups of students to hold sessions explaining insurance options.

HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius said: "We want to work with colleges and presidents universities and campus leads to ensure more young adults can get the coverage and care they need to stay healthy, even if they are unemployed or looking for a job. "

last week, The Corner coverage has written on the subject and provides students with some additional tips on steps they can take to compare health insurance options.

This week marks National Women's Health Week to celebrate and educate women about what they can do to improve their health and stay healthy. Each year, the Department of Health and Human Services is organizing the week to promote the welfare of women across the United States.

Not only the week to promote a healthy lifestyle, but ask women to take part in the Challenge wife to get recommended amounts of physical activity.

Some health tips for women include:

• Eat a balanced diet
• Visit or schedule regular checks and preventive screenings
• Avoid unhealthy behaviors such as smoking, excessive drinking, do not use sunscreen or seat belt
• Get the recommended levels of exercise each week (d exercise moderately for 2 hours and 30 minutes, vigorous activity for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or a combination of both)
• Managing stress and sleep patterns

for those who have health insurance, preventive screenings are now available at no charge out-of-pocket because of the reform of health care. It is important that women are aware of these benefits and take advantage of them.

For more information on the Week of the National Women's Health WomensHealth.gov visit.

Many states cut Medicaid benefits to face large deficits and lack of funds. Now there is a lawsuit challenging California to reduce its Medicaid reimbursement rates for health care providers. People who filed the case believe that the cuts have made it impossible for them to get access to health services provided by the health insurance program Medicaid.

Initially, the Obama administration has asked the Supreme Court not to take the case reports Politico . But now it will go to the Supreme Court, the Obama administration filed an amicus is a concern.

Solicitor General Neal Katyal filed a brief stating that health care providers and Medicaid patients can not sue California or another state, on changes to Medicaid.

Why is this so surprising position?

reform health care adds 16 million people to Medicaid over the next three years. Not only will more people be on Medicaid, but states will have to implement many provisions of the reform. States are allowed to make cuts in their Medicaid programs, but must get approval from the federal government. If the cuts are not aligned with the laws or requirements of the reform, the federal government can threaten to cut funding. But other than that, this brief will not provide much power to Medicaid beneficiaries or the federal government to ensure that the benefits of reform are planned.

In other words, this brief could "undermine" the benefits of the reform of health care.

However, if the federal government did not take this position, any supplier or Medicaid recipient would be allowed to continue on state benefits or reductions in Medicaid. These lawsuits could significantly increase the cost of Medicaid.

As Republicans work to push repeal the Independent Payment Council Advisory (IPAB) created by the reform of health care, medical groups are calling Republicans keep the political rhetoric out of the mix.

The creation of IPAB was to control Medicare spending in 2013. A committee of 15 experts would be appointed to find Medicare savings once the program has progressed at a rapid pace . The IPAB may seem like a good idea, but it is not very unpopular. Democrats and Republicans have both criticized the IPAB and the opposition is tantamount to rationing of care. Even advocate groups who supported the reform of health care - support the repeal of IPAB.

But as luck repealed approach, advocacy groups asking Republicans to remain silent on the issue. Medical groups fear that the rhetoric of the Republicans will result in fewer Democrats supporting the repeal, which would be unlikely to pass.

Representative Phil Gingrey (R-Ga.) Said, "I say to my colleagues that we must pay attention to [rhetoric] ... We do not need to be on top."

political reports that two panels House will meet next week to hold hearings and health and Human services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius will testify at a time. If the Republicans are able to create a bipartisan agreement during these hearings, it will probably pass the repeal easily. Otherwise months could go by before a bill repealing IPAB would pass.