Guaranty Association Benefits Company

As more Americans spend time online and on social media, they are looking for insurance and health health care information online. But where are all physicians online? Can they integrate their daily practices of physicians with social media and gain an online presence?

Intuit Health recently conducted a survey that found 73 percent of Americans wanted an easy to set up appointments, pay and display medical bills, examine the test results and communicate with the doctors.

With almost all services available online, people are almost waiting for the convenience of their doctors.

In 2010, more consumers have turned to the Internet for health information than ever and these numbers will only continue to grow in 2011. As doctors move online, there will be more authoritative sites for consumers to find quality information and open access to people in the medical field.

Soon consumers will be looking on and choosing physicians who offer the convenience and support they want online.

Personal Health Records (PHR) have gained ground and allow individuals to keep track of their medical history, prescriptions and resuscitation orders if they ever become very sick. These records enable health care providers to have access to records in case of emergency.

But will the local family doctor able to compete online and continue normal operations overnight desk?

Currently 23 states allow nurse practitioners to treat patients in the same way a primary care provider treats patients without a doctor present. A shortage of primary care physicians and the expansion of coverage Medicare will cause responsibilities of nurse practitioners to grow.

Under the reform of health care, the need for doctors and nurses that will expand medical homes are becoming more popular and the need to contain health care costs is widespread.

Nurse practitioners are cheaper to train and hire, but are still able to prescribe medications and interpreting laboratory results.

While most medical students have shown interest in primary care and fields during the past year related, experts are worried there will not be enough in the near future and some states are already expanding practitioner roles.

practitioners are nurses answer to the shortage of doctors? Some health experts say that nurse practitioners will increase the cost of due care of their lack of experience reports the Los Angeles Times.

Dr. James Hay, a family physician and president of the California Medical Association, said: "We think there is a big difference in the depth and breadth of training between nurses practitioners and physicians. We do not think they are interchangeable. "

Unfortunately, without increasing the number of health care providers, more people are likely to end up in the emergency room. Unnecessary trips to the emergency room is the main driver behind the costs health care and insurance elevated disease.

The medical marijuana is becoming more popular across the country and is still a hot topic 20 April every year as supporters of marijuana rally and celebrate.

So what are the benefits of medical marijuana for health care?

The last time a medical group commented on the effectiveness of medical marijuana was the American College of Physicians in 08 reports CBS News . They believe that marijuana treats four conditions, including lack of appetite and vomiting, glaucoma, neurological disorders and pain.

These conditions are common in cancer patients, HIV patients and AIDS, people with multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injury, epilepsy and people with rheumatoid arthritis.

Currently, there are 15 states that allow medical marijuana, including Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, District of Columbia, Hawaii, Maine, Michigan, Montana, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont and Washington.

California is the only state that allows a health care provider to recommend medical marijuana for any given medical condition. Other states will approve marijuana for particular conditions similar to those listed above.

There is a lack of research on marijuana for certain conditions that challenges the validity of its use. Little evidence shows that marijuana helps epilepsy or is the optimal choice of drugs for patients with glaucoma. In addition, marijuana seems to increase and decrease sensitivity to pain, making it difficult for health care providers to determine when it is appropriate for people suffering from pain.

The debate over medical marijuana will only continue to grow over the coming years, some states legalized while others struggle.

A bill proposed in California could prohibit health insurance companies to patients pay a percentage of costs on prescription drugs that are "special relationship". generally drugs which reach the special levels are very expensive and used for cancer, arthritis, HIV, AIDS, lupus, multiple sclerosis and others.

Patients usually have a share when buying prescriptions, but some plans have co-insurance rates for specialty drugs. Co-prescription insurance plans require consumers to pay a percentage of the drug instead of a flat rate. Depending on the cost of the drug, it can be really expensive for consumers.

To fight against the problem, the California Legislature is considering capping the amount consumers pay for prescriptions to $ 150 per drug and also eliminating the practice of having consumers pay a percentage for drugs. But The Daily Breeze reports that it will transfer $ 220 million to other consumers of insurance.

Nicholas Louizos of the California Association of Health Plans said, "artificially cap cost sharing and eliminating co-insurance on very expensive drugs ... does not address the underlying costs and do is not free. Instead, premiums will increase or drug benefits will change. "

Patients using specialty drugs account for 33 percent of Medicare costs, which will then move to other consumers of California if the bill is adopted.

opponents of the proposed legislative bill require California to wait until 2014 when any reform of health care provisions are implemented; however, many consumer advocates do not want to wait

Last week, another federal appeals court has heard evidence on the reform of health care - marking one of many court appearances to occur before the Supreme Court rules on the question. Federal judges in Ohio interviewed complainants fairly well but the answers that have been provided by the General Counsel of President Barack Obama is making headlines.

Neal Kumar Katyal, the Solicitor General, defended the reform of health care to a call where he created a new argument for the individual mandate for health insurance. He said that if someone wants to withdraw from the individual mandate a person would just make less money relation Fox News .

There have been many arguments for the individual mandate but it certainly raises many new questions.

Katyal argued for the mandate in the context that when companies were prevented from discrimination in the health of Atlanta Motel cases, they were forced to take action. In response, the judges highlighted the difference between the companies and individuals; companies have the opportunity to leave and individuals do not.

Katyal then went on to say that individuals have the opportunity to leave the market by less than a certain amount. And he suggested that the individual mandate is "a penalty to obtaining a certain amount of income and self affiliation."

Although the decision of the judges will not make that big of a difference, the arguments presented during the debate raises critical questions about the reform of health care.

With the legalization of gay marriage in New York, it will be easier for partners to add a spouse to employer health insurance plans. People working for New York and many private employers can now add the same sex in a plane.

If the employer already provides coverage to spouses of employees, the coverage will include same sex married couples as well. But for companies that have "self-insured" expected to be at their discretion to extend the benefits. self-insured policies are governed by the federal government, which has not yet passed legislation recognizing gay marriage.

However, the marriage will benefit many LGBT couples in New York. This group usually face obstacles in obtaining health insurance benefits. In addition, this will reduce some problems LGBT couples can have when visiting spouses in the hospital or while receiving emergency care. Sometimes hospitals do not allow members of the immediate family to see a patient that could interfere with couples see.

The New York Times reports that same-sex marriages are recognized in New York since 08 at this time, the married state LGBT couples treated as spouses to help clarify financial issues.

People have a lot to say about health insurance on the sites of social media; Unfortunately, it is generally not humorous.

To show appreciation for the funny things people have to say about Medicare here six tweets the last two months:

1. @thespiderman I am officially an athlete professional. My health insurance company will pay me if I work for 6 weeks in a row. #nikesponsorship

2. @scooth_over Medicare meetings: "We are completely ******* you, but we brought keychain"

3. @! djlaundromat As foreplay, I want to send a girl pictures of my insurance card.

4. This office feels @Gergimo rate hikes health insurance and nicotine gum.

5. @mellerad in other news, Trojan stocks fall. RT @jpreister Birth Control Free for all new insurance rules ...

6. @WhatTheDang I guess I'll fill this health insurance paperwork. PAPER. WITH A PEN. LIKE A CAVEMAN *******.

Each health care provider will need to use a new coding system for health care services as of 1 October 2013 . the new system will expand the current number of codes that classify health care services 18000-140000.

On the other hand, the codes will be able to tell the insurance companies where the majority of injuries occur. For example, they will know if an injury occurred in the kitchen of a mobile home in the dining room in the mobile home, in the bedroom, bathroom, driveway, garage, pool, garden, yard or other place or an unspecified location in the mobile home. There are 10 codes to describe just where injury occurred in the mobile home and then there are more codes to describe the injury.

think it's a bit pointless? There are only 312 animals codes reports The Wall Street Journal . There are nine ways to describe how someone was injured by a turtle, including: three ways to classify being bitten by a turtle, three ways to classify being hit by a turtle and three ways to classify other contact with a turtle.

If an incident with a chicken? There are 72 codes for injuries related to birds.

Hurt yourself on water skis while jumping through a fire zone? There are 27 codes associated with being injured on water skis with 3 different codes for a burn due to water skis on fire.

Are the codes are health care providers and more effective health insurance companies? Will help prevent injuries or illnesses?

Finding health insurance can seem like a daunting task and GoHealth, we try to make the process as simple as possible.

To help consumers through the process of looking for a cover, GoHealth examines the most common complaints about the search for health insurance.

Health insurance is too complicated and overwhelming. There are many parts to health insurance - deductible, premium, copayment, coinsurance, network, benefits, and the list continues. So when you're reviewing the health insurance quotes in the Quote Engine GoHealth, click the different terms that confuse to learn. In addition, an agent is no more than a phone call or you can use our chat services to talk to an expert about your options.

Health insurance is too expensive. Unfortunately, the cost of individual health insurance is set by law and GoHealth can not lower the price of health insurance for its consumers. Some states also just have high insurance costs - especially the health insurance costs of Massachusetts and New York.

I have to pay a month of initial premiums and do not know when I'll be approved for coverage. Once a consumer chooses a plan they have to pay the premium of the first month immediately but is refundable if they are not eligible for coverage or choose another plan. The approval process depends on the insurance company - this may take a few days or a whole month.

I can not find coverage. With the changes in the reform of health care and laws, it can be difficult for some people to find individual health insurance. This includes women who are pregnant, children who need individual policies and people with pre-existing conditions.

Coverage Application forms are too long. No matter where you apply for health insurance, the demand will be long. These are necessary for health insurers to determine the amount of risk a person can be insured. If you know you have a preexisting condition and are likely to be turned down for health insurance, talk to an agent before applying. The agent may be able to help you find a carrier that you turn down coverage on the basis of this condition.

In the industry of health insurance, there are more acronyms than ever because of the reform health care.

Here's a quick guide to understanding the different terms:

HMO Health Maintenance Organizations are generally the insurance option illness more affordable, but require consumers see a network of doctors and choose a primary care physician.

PPO: The popularity of Preferred Provider Organizations continues to grow as people prefer the flexibility to view network and off-network providers, and more people switch to plans with high deductibles to save on monthly premiums.

HDHP: high-deductible health plan (just one type of PPO Plan) are compatible with health savings account. These plans have a high deductible that must be met before Medicare coverage begins with lower monthly premiums. Most employers rely on these plans to reduce costs.

FFS: Plans Fee-for-service are widespread on the market more because of their inability to control the costs of health care and large expenditures.

POS A popular abbreviation with double meaning ... But in the world of health insurance, it is known as an insurance scheme Point-of-Service. It is a mix between an HMO and PPO, but forcing consumers to choose a primary care physician.

HSA: A health savings account is often paired with a plan of high-deductible and consumer-friendly type of medical savings account more. Consumers can save money for medical expenses tax free and funds roll each year.

FSA flexible savings account is a type of medical savings account that is popular among employers provide to employees. Unfortunately, the funds from these types of plans do not roll over as HSA, but offer non-taxable benefits.

CFP: primary care physician, also known as your family doctor. Many health plans ask you to find a PCP or provide more coverage to visit this health care provider.

PHR: The personal health records help consumers keep records of their medical history and allows them to manage personal information.

EHR: suppliers Electronic health records help healthcare streamline patient data and medical information.

ACO: Organizations care accountable, created by the reform of health care will force hospitals and health care providers to coordinate care for patients in a new way. Fortunately, it will also be able to control the costs of health care in the future.

UNHCR Court for the reform of health care, synonymous with the Affordable Care Act and Protecting Patients and Obamacare.

ACA :. Short Affordable Care Act, also known as reforming health care (UNHCR) to

Every year you start to prepare for tax season you can list all the things you can deduct from your taxes. This year, do not forget to include your health care costs out of pocket.

If you have a group or individual health insurance, all off-pocket costs that you eat throughout the year should be considered.

See the slideshow to see what deductions you can and can not do at the end of the year.

Other tax considerations

If you do not have a health savings account, open one before 31 December 2011. many people who have high deductible plans are eligible for a health savings account (HSA), because it offers tax free benefits and collects interests. If you either do not have an HSA or have not contributed the full amount, do it before the end of the year. You can deduct these expenses from your taxes 2011

In 2011, the HSA contribution limit for an individual is $ 3,050 and $ 6,150 for a family. From 2012, the contribution limit for one person will be $ 3,100 and $ 6,250 for a family.

Do not forget, those who are self-employed can deduct up 100 percent of their monthly health insurance premiums . If you have a group health insurance, your employer already provides tax-free benefit and it should be listed on your tax form.

As the end of the year approaches, so does the need for effective use a franchise. You have reached the franchise this year or not, try to think of ways that you could get more use out of it in 2012.

Try to follow some of these tips for 2012:

• If you hit the franchise in 2011, try to use more health care services before the end of the year. This is quite last minute, but you have a few days to enjoy the franchise reach this year.
• Do not put the health care services in 2012, if you need them. If you reach the deductible earlier in the year, then you will have more time to benefit from health insurance coverage for services. (This may not apply to individuals with a high deductible.)
• Open a Health Savings Account (HSA) at the beginning of the year. The more money you put in the HSA earlier in the year, will collect the most interest in the account.
• Remember there is a difference between a family deductible and an individual deductible. With a health plan of the family, you may need to hit the individual deductible and family deductible before Medicare coverage kicks in.
• Be smart about where you go for medical services. If you need to meet a deductible to the hospital and visit a hospital for services rather than an imaging imaging center - but that does not mean you have to go to the hospital when you should consult a doctor.
• Do not forget the allowable credit. Some insurance plans include a deductible credit, but you should consider this before choosing a plan or if your current plan has the advantage.

The way that a credit against

If you leave the franchise in 2011, you may qualify for a deductible of reducing the following year. For example, you do not fill your $ 10,000 in 2011 to franchise in 2012, you will get a 20 percent discount (to become a $ 8,000 deductible). If you do not meet your deductible in 2012, then you may be eligible for a further reduction in 2013.

If your insurance policy does not cover dental, vision, it may not be the full coverage you need. Many times health insurance policies do not provide dental insurance and vision to all consumers who give the chance to buy a policy with more coverage.

This is why it may be better to get up dental and one vision:

1. Vision benefits can not be fully covered. When health policies involve the assurance of vision, it may lack some key features. For example, if you have glasses, contacts or family history of vision problems, try to get a plan with more coverage for these benefits. Hold the only assurance could be better because it is more likely to cover glaucoma screenings and eyeglasses and contacts.

2. Restrictions on your vision. Some health insurance plans have restrictions on coverage for exams and corrective lenses. There are various policies that cover only certain components of an annual eye check-up and the rest will be paid by you. If you choose your own independent policy, you have more freedom to find a policy that has fewer restrictions depending on your needs.

3. Limited not true, dental. Consider what dental services you or your family might need this year. Then consider the cost and if the maximum annual benefit of your health policy will cover these services. Do you need more coverage, you need less? These are great things to think about before getting the job or major dental braces. With a standalone dental policy, you may have more options and various features available to choose from.

4. Waiting periods waiting periods are the period of time specified in a health insurance policy that must pass before some or all of your care coverage health can begin -. These are usually common with pre-existing conditions. Stand alone dental plan generally have shorter waiting periods that health insurance policies.

In 06, Massachusetts was the first state to issue a warrant Medicare who need them individuals to buy insurance. Unfortunately, although the plan was to make insurance accessible and affordable for all, it has increased spending across the state.

To fight against these cost increases, many representatives and health insurance companies are working hard to launch new programs and reduce costs for consumers.

This idea is switching to plans "global payment". With international payment plans, networks such as BlueCross Blue Shield receive a fixed annual amount to cover their insured clients, whatever the actual cost for each patient.

part of the idea behind the global payment plan is that doctors will be cautious when ordering expensive and potentially unnecessary tests. financial incentives are in place to make so that patients continue to receive the highest quality of care. patients are more empowered to manage their own health care, and they are free to seek medical professional of their choice.

Although still early in the overall payment plan, the initial success is encouraging. in fact, the Massachusetts children's Hospital provides that it will save $ 83 million in just the next two years. The savings will be beneficial to patients and physicians, and the plan continued good global payment plans could be adopted across the country.

By continuing to develop new ideas and implement reform plans, we can find a way to solve the health insurance problem in this country and continue to receive amazing professional health care talented and dedicated.

Your wedding day is one of the most important and exciting days in your life. However, amid choose mistresses and planning your honeymoon, do not forget to make another important decision: health insurance. As a newly married couple, the health insurance options are changing, and these changes are crucial decisions.

Here are some things to consider before walking down the aisle:

The 30-day rule. Most plans allow couples to 30 days to make insurance decisions disease after their marriage. This means you only have one month to decide if you want to plan (or vice versa), your partner, or if you want to keep them separate insurance plans. Sharing of insurance can be affordable, but sometimes separate insurance plans may be the wise choice to meet your health care needs and the price difference between the plans. Talk to your insurance company to know your options before filing a plan.

Compare health benefits. One thing to consider is that the partition plan could limit some of your options. If you want to join your partner's insurance plan, make sure you know if you will still be able to visit the favorite doctors. Some of your health care providers might now be out-of-network, which means that visiting your usual doctor could now be more expensive.

Consider children or future children. Employers may charge different prices to add dependents to plans and recently more employers shifting costs to employees. Compare costs between keeping children on the current plan and the passage of a child in the plan of the spouse.

Consult plans for maternity benefits before moving coverage of health insurance in pregnancy might be an option in the future.

Talk to your employer and company health insurance before dropping a plan without being approved for a new one. Some companies may require you to add a dependent during the open enrollment period of the group.

It is always important to be familiar with your health insurance policy, especially regarding what your company ' insurance coverage. This is not only true with regard to the procedures and doctor visits, but also in regard to drugs. Not all medications you might need will be covered by insurance, and some may only be partially covered.

This is why it is important to know your medication list. A form is a list of drugs that the insurance will cover. You can check your form by asking your health insurance company to show you a list or, in some cases, you can log in to your account on their website. All information is available at hand.

If you need a prescription that is not covered by your insurance company, you do not necessarily have to pay simply out of pocket. There are other options. For example, you might ask your doctor if a generic drug would work as well as the name of the brand, and if so, this option could be covered by your insurance.

Do not miss a prescription drug discount card. With a membership to a prescription discount program, you can save money in pharmacies and reduce some of the cost of your prescriptions. There are options for families and individuals.

Although prescriptions can be expensive, the good news is that there are many options to help fray the cost. The first step is to know your form and instruct you on your coverage health insurance. After that, talk to your doctor and ask about cost cutting options.

What you're really out of shape or just a little on the plump side, carrying extra pounds can have an extremely negative impact on your life. In America about 61 percent of the population is considered overweight and more than a third of American adults (35.7 percent) are obese.

Along with the social stigma associated with being overweight, there are physical and financial implications that should not be ignored.

Your body mass index (BMI) can really affect your insurance rates. BMI is determined by the following calculation: 703 times your size divided by your body weight times your body weight or BMI = (weight in pounds / height in inches x height in inches) x 703. If you're like us and do not have the desire to do the math, you can easily find a BMI calculator online.

What is my BMI number mean?

in the US, a BMI above 25 qualifies you as overweight and a BMI over 30 is obese you officially. Your BMI is used to determine whether or not your weight will cause a health risk. Although this is not a guarantee that you're going to have a stroke or heart attack, it significantly increases the probability of such an event.

More lbs, more health care costs.

Just like smoking or pre-existing condition, a high BMI can make your rising insurance rates. We're not talking about pocket money, either. In some cases, it can increase your payment of the monthly premium of more than $ 500. If your BMI is too high, an insurance company will probably deny you the full health insurance coverage.

Overweight people often suffer from respiratory problems, diabetes, bone spurs and back problems. The insurance companies take all this into account when examining someone with a high BMI.

The adoption of a healthier lifestyle and lose weight is a great idea for you and your bank account.

We know how college kids are stoked on the subject of the insurance cover disease for young adults. It's all they can talk forever, right? As the school year comes to an end and inches obtaining the nearest degree day, GoHealth is excited and inspired ... you guessed it - to talk about Medicare! We just want to fit in with the cool kids.

We have implemented a comprehensive, easy to navigate survival guide student health insurance filled with important information that students should really know. Young adults have many health insurance options to choose from, and that's good news. Choosing between them may be the confusing part.

Here are the different subjects our guide explores in detail:

• New Student Orientation - all the basics about health insurance options for students
• compare and contrast student health insurance options
• How to reform health care will affect the student health insurance plans
• 5 things graduates should know about the health insurance after Graduation

to see our Student Health insurance survival Guide in its entirety, click on this link:

Student Health insurance survival Guide

During the debate on health care leading to the adoption of the affordable care Act (ACA) many have argued that consumers should be able to buy health insurance across state lines. Basically, if you live in New York you can buy health insurance from an insurance company in New Jersey.

Proponents of buying health insurance across state lines thinking it would make more competitive health insurance rates across the country and allow consumers to save the money buying more affordable plans.

There are currently three states that have passed laws that intend to allow the outside of the health insurers to offer policies to residents, including Rhode Island, Wyoming and Georgia.

Georgia passed the law there almost exactly a year and many are considering whether a failure.

Why?

Not an out-of-state health insurer sought to offer plans in Georgia since the law was adopted in 2011. Instead health insurers floods in Georgia to offer plans in the state many are jumping at the opportunity.

The reasons for the lack of interest could be mainly due to the fact that many health insurance companies are waiting until the Supreme Court rules on health care reform health. Instead of acting, many health insurers seem to be in a holding pattern.

Another issue could be that health insurers are not interested in joining the market, spend money on advertising in a state where they are not present and trying to maintain certain ratios medical loss (MLR), as defined by the ACA. All this requires a lot of work and planning at a time when many health insurance companies are just trying to follow the rules and deadlines ACA.

Although experience is interesting in Georgia, Georgia may have adopted the law at the wrong time. Anyway, maybe the health insurers will join the market in the future and provide the residents of Georgia another source for health insurance.

Most consumers are focused on finding health insurance. But what happens once they are approved for coverage?

When it comes to getting health insurance, get approved for coverage is just the beginning. Consumers need to take some additional steps to get the most out of their monthly premiums.

1. Find health insurance and apply online policy.
2. Get approved for health insurance. This can take up to a month to keep your current coverage until you are approved by the new health insurance company.
3. Set up an online account with the insurance company. Some health insurers will allow you to make payments online, see your medical history and allow you to find health care providers in a given area.
4. Find a pharmacy covered by the policy. Or, the health insurer may offer prescriptions by mail in a larger mass.
5. Select a network doctor. If you have a primary doctor you want to keep, make sure the doctor is considered network before applying for a health insurance plan. But if you need a new doctor, find one in the plan's network.
6. Manage complaints online with your health insurance provider. Some health insurers allow you to manage and pay your health care costs in line.

After being approved for coverage, consumers need to take some additional steps to set up their health insurance account before using. This will not only help people understand Medicare deeper political but also help consumers make smart health care decisions.

This is a drug that goes by many names, indeed. Azithromycin, a commonly prescribed antibiotic Zithromax is also known as (his trademark) and "Z-pack" (his close friends and family). Whatever you call it, you can not call it boring - GoHealth can not help but notice that azithromycin has been a lot of waves in the world of health news.

There was a popular drug for years, revered by doctors and patients as a treatment for certain infectious bacterial infections such as bronchitis, pneumonia and sexually transmitted diseases.

The headlines on azithromycin are not all positive, however. Let's take a peek been busy this antibiotic was:

Z-pack does well worldwide in May
In May, researchers in the UK found that azithromycin improves lung function in patients with bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome (BOS), a life threatening event in most patients after lung transplantation. In fact, BOS is the leading cause of death in a year following a lung transplant.

Last month, azithromycin was prescribed strongly in response to the epidemic of Washington whooping cough (pertussis). Although it is not proven to shorten the duration of illness, it can keep uninfected people to catch.

dark side of Z-pack
Vanderbilt researchers have found that, in rare cases, the "Z-pack" pose a higher risk of cardiovascular mortality in first five days of taking the drug. research shows an increased risk of death, particularly in people with a history of heart problems. the concerns raised by this study are not applicable to children because they are very few risk of heart disease.

so there you have it, folks. this is the story of an antibiotic with a bright future and the not so perfect. We will keep you informed of the next time it drug appears in the news.

A recent study has indicated that more and more Americans are inquiring about prices before getting care services health. In the past, the bargain hunting was not something you associate automatically receive important medical care. However, even for those with health insurance coverage, the costs can be so high that a trader little comparison becomes a trend.

Here are some other key findings of the study:

• 16 percent of households said they looked around different price points before getting care. This represents an increase of five percent from last year
• Method to get pricing information: 50 percent called their doctor and the other half asked their insurance company. This is a big change from the results of the same survey in 2010, while 60 percent of respondents get quotes from their doctors and 26 percent of their insurance company.
• People use the Internet twice as they did two years ago to contact their doctors and insurers on price. However, the majority of people (53 percent) get their information in person.
• Less than two-thirds said the information received on the price of health care influenced their decision

This trend should therefore not surprising given the fact that employers, large and small, were choosing to pay less for coverage for their workers in recent years. True, high shots deductible catastrophic health become the "new normal" for many companies and employees are feeling the effects!

In response to the increase in high-deductible plans there has been a marked increase in the number of health staff opening savings accounts (HSA). These accounts allow you to save money for future medical expenses. The main one HSA open grounds is a wise idea:

• The amount in an HSA collect interest.
• HSA funds roll every year.
• The funds are saved for future medical expenses.
• You can deduct HSA contributions tax on income.

Although the decision of the Supreme Court on Medicaid will continue to assess - States are already responding . Iowa and Florida have already announced they will not expand their Medicaid program -. At the time this article is published another state may agree to do the same

What this means for the people of these states?

Residents of Iowa and Florida who qualified for the Medicaid expansion may now be eligible for subsidies on health insurance exchanges. But these people will have to pay out of pocket for health insurance and will receive subsidies for coverage. If consumers do not purchase coverage they will be fined from 2014 or prove that they could not afford it.

Are there unintended consequences?
He certainly could have unintended consequences for states not participating in the Medicaid expansion :. 1) persons who travel to countries where they are eligible for Medicaid and free health coverage, 2) the federal government can spend more on subsidies than originally anticipated because more people will be eligible

Why would not the states to expand Medicaid?
in the past two years, many states have worked to reduce their benefits and current Medicaid payments to hospitals and health care providers. The recession, many state budgets were pinched by Medicaid and found it to be unstable.

But for the first few years of expansion, the federal government would pick up the full cost and then slowly make the States pay part of the cost. So, the decision could be purely political.

The Affordable Care Act requires all health insurers provide concise and understandable information about their plans and their benefits. It is an all too familiar scenario - playback on your health plan three times and still not understand what is covered. Well, as of September 23, 2012, all that will be a thing of the past.

Patients have a right to the following two key documents to help them understand and compare their Medicare options:

Summary of Benefits and Coverage (SBC)
A clear, concise and friendly provided by health insurance companies and group health plans that clearly defines all of your benefits and coverage. The SBC will be readily available when consumers need it most: when shopping for a plan at the beginning of each plan year, and upon request at any time.

The SBC will "examples of coverage" with a signature look, too, on the model of the label Nutrition Facts on packaged foods. According healthcare.gov, examples of coverage "illustrate, by way of comparison, the proportion of the cost of care in a health insurance policy or plan would cover for a patient sample for two common medical situations with the diabetes a baby and managing type 2. additional scenarios will be added in the future as feedback is collected from consumers. "

Uniform Glossary of health care coverage and medical terms

the term "uniform" is the key here. The glossary will be consistent definitions across the board for the coverage of health and medical terms that are commonly used as "co-insurance" and "franchise". For even easier access, the Ministries of Health and Social Services and Labour will also display the glossary on their website.

At GoHealth, we strive to give consumers all the information they need to make an informed decision about which health insurance plan is right for them. As part of this ongoing effort, take a look at these 8 things to know before purchasing health insurance

1. Do not be tempted by the lowest premium.
Some consumers are naturally tempted to go with the plan that has the lowest monthly premiums. But the single premium is not the whole picture of what the consumer pays out of pocket for health care. The lowest premium will typically have very high deductibles, which means the policyholder pays more if they need to go to a doctor or hospital. Consumers have the choice to pay more per month to pay less if they need medical care.

2. The plan provider network is really, really important.
Nothing is worse than going to a doctor and find out they do not take your insurance. Consumers really need to ensure that their preferred health care providers include in their plan network.

3. Know all costs out-of-pocket when the doctor (or hospital).
There is a very good idea for consumers to have a deep understanding of the outside pocket costs of their plan, including co-insurance and co-insurance when they see a doctor or go to 'hospital.

4. Do not forget extra coverage such as dental, vision or motherhood.
There is always a mistake to assume a health plan also covers dental, vision and maternity care. Consumers who need coverage will probably need to add a rider to a health plan for these "extra" benefits.

5. Consider a health plan compatible with a Health Savings Account (HSA)
If a plan has a high deductible, so consumers can open accounts health savings to save tax-free money to pay for medical expenses -. Including individual health insurance premiums.

6. Do not be afraid to ask the doctor lots of questions.
Health care should be a team sport. Consumers know their body better, so it pays (and records) ask a doctor a lot of questions that the procedures and requirements are most needed.

7. Do not forget the family or dependents.
In the situation of a family, individual plans for everyone or filler added to a plan are two possible options of coverage.

8. Do your homework, talk to a professional agent.
Believe it or not, most people who buy individual health insurance need help of an agent before buying. Health insurance is a very complex product, so it makes sense to go to a few different options using a service like GoHealthInsurance.com.

Maybe you've heard of Medicare Advantage plans in the past but are not quite sure how they differ from traditional Medicare. You're not alone. Medicare and all its parts (A, B, C, D) the cause of confusion for many Americans. However, it seems that people educate themselves more about their options for health insurance. This is evident in the growing number of older people buying Advantage plans.

Medicare Advantage plans are offered by private insurance companies that contract with Medicare to provide beneficiaries all Part A and Part B coverage and additional benefits. There are several types of Medicare Advantage plans to choose from, and some include coverage for prescription drugs Medicare Part D.

During Medicare Open Enrollment, held from October 15 to December 7 consumers can:

• Sign in to Medicare Advantage
• Skip Medicare Advantage Original Medicare
• Advantage plans change Medicare or suppliers
• delete or change Medicare Part D prescription drug plans

Our latest infographic can help clear up any questions you might have! Click on the image to enlarge.

Designed by GoHealthInsurance.com

Update : Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) issued a revised list of hospitals sanctions for 2013 days before the readmissions reduction program began October 1. in the notice, he cited a calculation error as the cause of the error. The organization inadvertently included inpatient Medicare claims with discharge dates occurring before 1 July 08, when it calculated the adjustment factors readmissions. The data is supposed to be limited to the period from 1 July 08 to 30 June 2011. Following the correction, penalties for 55 hospitals have been reduced and penalties for 1,422 hospitals increased slightly to 2013.

Monday, hospitals across the United States facing the launch of an initiative that will impose financial penalties for Medicare readmission rates that exceed the national averages. The hospital readmissions of the reduction program designed to require hospitals to improve the quality of care beyond the acute events, imposes penalties ranging from 0.01 to 1 percent of payments of DRG base operating.

Mercy Hospital and Medical Center in Chicago was among 278 hospitals hit with the maximum penalty .01 percent for 2013 for Mercy, with its annual turnover of $ 260 million, the penalty equals about $ 400,000

about 278 hospitals penalized maximum level :.

• 85 are independent installations nonprofit
• 88 are among the non-health systems for profit
• 56 are for-profit
• are 49 government-owned facilities

improvement will not necessarily guarantee the safety of future penalties. It depends largely on how each hospital program is structured as payment cuts are assessed using national readmission averages for each condition. Therefore, sanctions thresholds are subject to constant change.

Opponents of the initiative argue that sanctions could be the last straw for hospitals that are already in financial trouble, many of them independent hospitals who treat patients vulnerable populations. Others argue that hospitals should not be responsible for decisions taken by patients after their release -. For example, make a follow-up visit to their primary care physician

The supporters of the initiative are adamant that the establishment and maintenance of a patient -centered focus on the transition of care from a inpatient to outpatient setting can reduce readmission rates for long-term patients.

Healthcare.gov more information on hospital readmission reduction program. Do you think that the program will achieve success in reducing readmission rates, or penalties ultimately harm our health care system?

Starting in 2014, the Affordable Care Act will require most Americans to carry health insurance, and the penalty for failure to do is fine. So the reform of health care seems to bode well for medical start-ups, right? Not necessarily.

A recent article in the Wall Street Journal explored this question and made some interesting points.

Although the requirement for health insurance should prove advantageous for companies invested in the medical field, a different arrangement can be problematic. Next year, an excise tax of 2.3 percent on sales of medical devices come into force. People in the medical device industry are concerned that this tax will be more difficult for medical start-ups to raise capital to start and grow. Start-ups are already facing significant challenges; it usually takes a medical start-up of 10 years and $ 100 million to develop and launch a medical device.

The problem is that the tax on medical device could have a negative impact on financial projections, decreasing the attractiveness of companies for investors. As a result, start-ups may lose access to funding, which is so essential to cover expenses such as manufacturing, installation, sales and marketing. Another consequence of the tax is the tough decisions that some companies may be forced to make because of it -. For example, rent a slower or stop hiring efforts for now

Not only is the device companies that stand to suffer if the reform of health care remains intact during the next presidential term. Some investors have expressed concerns that the insured population is growing and use of medical products increases with it, insurers become rigid on prices. price pressures could lead the public-market investors away from health care, which makes it more difficult for startups to go public.

All these issues have the potential to damage medical startups, yes. However, it is important to remember that most people who are bold enough to risk starting their own business are already equipped with the resilience and creativity. As these two features are leveraged, start-ups will find a way to survive and thrive.

As a participant Tech the Halls GiveForward initiative GoHealth sponsors breast cancer patients, Barbara Isaacs Simon whose medical bills are causing quite a strain this holiday season. We donate to Barb and gifts from other people until corresponding fundraising has reached its end date of December 31.

"Barb against the Big C" was organized by the daughter of Barbara, Nicole Channer, to help pay the enormous costs of treatment. While Barbara is fortunate to have health insurance coverage, the combination of its out-of-pocket costs, and its share of the cost of surgery, radiation and transport to appointments is staggering.

diagnosed about two there for months, Barbara has three children and two grandchildren for help to stay motivated in their fight against the deadly disease that has also afflicted other two women in his family as Nicole writes. "... she is the only mother I need and want to do everything I can to ! help make his bout as easy as possible "

Barbara: pathology report its second and most recent operation was negative. However, to ensure that all traces of the cancer is eradicated, Barbara has to go through radiation and possibly chemotherapy - treatments that are both very expensive

On his page, Barbara wrote: ". overall, I am very relieved that the news is what it is ... it could have been much worse! I keep positive thoughts and I embraced all the love and support I get from my dear, wonderful family , friends, colleagues and strangers !! "

GiveForward raised a total of $ 26,946,967 in grants since its beginning. The organization gives the friends and family near a platform to gather financial support to help ease the financial burden that a medical crisis may impose.

Tech the Halls is the GiveForward strategy to rally the technology community thriving in Chicago and the expansion of the scope of each fundraising. The competition is a positive thing that every company wants to get the most donations. You can help support Barbara in her fight against breast cancer by donating through its GiveForward page.

A new year is almost upon us, but 2013 brings with it the need for employers to prepare for some changes in the health insurance plans they offer to their employees. The landscape of the health care industry is changing - largely thanks to the Affordable Care Act (ACA), but private health insurance exchanges and technological innovations also contribute to that change. Employers should take the following into account in the employer sponsored health insurance in 2013:

• With health insurance costs rising for employers, more and more companies are turning to defined contribution plans. When using this type of plan, employers provide a sum of money to employees for health insurance premiums. Employees can then select the plan of their choice. This option is gaining popularity among employers because in many cases it is a more affordable option to provide health insurance benefits for employees.
• From 2014, employers will be required by the ACA to offer health coverage to all employees who work 30 hours or more per week. This makes 2013 a critical time for employers to understand how many employees fall into this category. It is also important for employers to begin to educate employees on the state health insurance exchanges that will take effect in the fall of 2013.
• Given the fact that they are responsible to cover more people in 2014, it would be useful for employers to take stock of the level of health insurance benefits they currently provide and their share of the contribution. Readjusting these factors with an option as a plan of the health of consumers directed at low cost could generate substantial savings in the wake of the ACA.
• Many employers have implemented what they wellbeing of employees long term programs, but to be truly effective, a wellness program must go beyond distributing free samples 'bottled water. To achieve long-term savings through improved employee health, wellness program should include services such as cholesterol screenings and educational practices. Employers would also be wise to take advantage of communication and engagement opportunities offered by social media like Twitter, many employees already enrolled.

In the wake of recent shootings, the nation is to take a peek nearest mental health care and how it is managed. The current mental health system in the United States lacking to say the least, preventing millions of people with psychological problems receive proper treatment. US mental health experts urge legislators to address these gaps in the health care system, stressing that without treatment can lead to violent behavior that we have seen in the Sandy Hook Elementary shooting school.

People with serious mental illness often fall through the gaps in our current health care system. According to Rick Cagen, executive director of the Kansas chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, a third of people who need help do not get in time to avoid a crisis. Country experts call the decision makers to obtain better funding for early treatment.

At a hearing Thursday, January 24 ^e , Democrats and Republicans on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions convened to address these gaps in care health and also urged the Obama administration to expedite the revisions on the agenda for mental health care. With the passage of the Affordable Care Act in 2010, people with mental illness should have better access to health insurance that covers the abuse of mental health treatment and substance abuse.

Several other provisions of the health care reform law is also meant to help people with mental illness, including:

• prevention programs
• insurance plan for long-term community care
• reauthorization of SCHIP, the health insurance program for children
• improvements in drug benefits from 'insurance

many states also take the law into their own hands. Governor Mark Dayton of Minnesota published a proposal this week calling for the counties to pay a greater share of the cost for patients receiving psychiatric care long-term mental illness in two facilities. Counties currently pay ten percent of treatment costs for residents, while the proposed increase Dayton as fifty percent.

Ever heard of the CLASS Act? The Community Living Assistance Services and Support program (CLASS) was signed into force on 1 January 2011 to expand the options for people who become disabled or in need of long-term services.

This provision would have been first volunteer the United State's long-term public health insurance program, but was essentially closed and removed from the Affordable Care Act by the Obama administration after it was deemed "unworkable".

Key elements of the program included cash benefits to adults working with functional or cognitive limitations for use in the purchase of non-medical services and support necessary to maintain the community residence and payments for institutional care. Supporters of the CLASS Act hoped the program would offer advice on how to look after and pay for our aging population -. And now that the law has been rejected, the questions remain

A new map

Enter the Commission on Long Term Care, a group of 15 members chosen by President, the majority and minority leaders in the Senate and the speaker and minority leader. This group is responsible for developing plans for a high-quality system to ensure long-term comprehensive care for adults and seniors in the nation with a disability.

Jesse Slome, executive director of the American Association for Long Term Care Insurance stresses that this is an issue that requires attention- otherwise he said, "we are stuck with what we have in affect the elderly who might need expensive care for 30 years, and persons with disabilities who may need care longer. "

The members have a tight deadline of six months to submit legislative or administrative recommendations to be introduced in Congress Skeptics are tired of what can actually be accomplished in six months. But lawyers are ready to fight to push the bill in the agenda of the nation.

Under the Affordable Care Act, people buying private health insurance through an exchange after January 1, 2014 are eligible for subsidies on insurance premiums and cost-sharing as long as your income is below 400 percent of the federal poverty level.

two forms of subsidies offered by the government are premium assistance tax credits to lower individual and family premiums and aid cost sharing, which limits the maximum an individual cost out-pocket.

Like millions of consumers benefit from these grants in hopes of saving money, they might actually get hit by surprise tax bills if they incorrectly cast their income. Typically, the income, the higher subsidy, you should receive less.

This is fine, but there is no definitive way to you or the government to know how much money you will actually be bring to next year. The government must rely on the tax return in 2012 you filed this spring. Say you are awarded a grant in 2014 and your total income rises because of an increase or other factors. You could end up with a larger grant than originally planned.

What many do not realize is that you have to repay part of the money when you file a tax return in the spring of 2015, causing the surprise tax bills or small reimbursements. This monitoring highlights a bigger problem among Americans, which many of us fully understand the new law on health care.

health insurers, advocates of health law and tax experts expect public awareness campaigns to familiarize consumers with the Health Care Act and its implications. Without this education, millions of middle income taxpayers could get stung with penalties and end up owing money.

While the Obama administration scrambles to implement future policies affordable care Act, the nation watching closely to see how the government manages many of the obstacles still standing in the way

. 1. short time

A large amount of work remains to be done before the exchanges are operational. Open registration takes effect on October 1 ^st , giving the states and the federal government less than 5 months to get the exchange live and running.

2. Explain the reform of health care and new insurance options for consumers

The US Census estimates that over 55 million people speak a language other than English at home. As states try to build trade and to extend coverage to ethnic and hard to reach populations, managers are faced with the complications of explaining and delivering these changes to consumers from diverse cultural backgrounds and languages .

States are also working on the introduction of user-friendly sites building where consumers can learn about the changes and outstanding options. State officials are also trying to build exchange websites so that other languages ​​may be added later.

3. Lack of funds, many states have stopped registering for pre-existing state insurance plans (__gVirt_NP_NNS_NNPS <__ PCIPs)

were PCIPs created under the ACA as a temporary program for those currently denied coverage until 2014. However, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid services recently suspended enrollment in early PCIPs.

in February this year, the Consumer Information Centre and Insurance Oversight (CCIIO) also suspended new enrollments in the 23 states and DC, where the program is run in due to the high cost concerns. Although registration was relatively low, higher medical costs than expected for patients caused overall costs to rise.

4. The lack of transparency and regulation on rising health care costs

While the ACA made progress in expanding coverage for consumers, there is much concern about rising health care costs. Increased costs for individuals, families, small businesses and large companies can make it more expensive to add employees and maintain coverage for retirees. Research shows that rising health care costs is the result of rising health care prices.

5. Threat billion in taxes on health insurers to pass on to consumers

From 2014, ACA imposes an insurance tax disease on the market fully insured service for small businesses. Under the Act, all health insurance companies will be assessed a tax based on their "net premiums" writes. Insurance costs for 2014 will be $ 8 billion in 2014 and $ 14.3 billion in 2018. The concern is that this burden will be passed by the insurance companies to small business owners or individual insurers. There is already a great opposition to this tax on premiums.

Senior Vice President of Consumer Marketing, Michael Mahoney, is in USA Today speaks benefits in the workplace.

READ MORE

http://www.usatoday.com/story/money/business/2013/04/27/employers-adopt-flexible-policies/201003/

In honor of Mother's Day and all the special women in our lives, we celebrate National Women's Health Week . This year, 14 ^e annual Health Week will be observed from the National Women 12 to 18 May 2013 and provides an opportunity for women of all ages to take the time to ensure that they are to do everything possible to lead a healthy life.

Throughout the week, women are encouraged to take action by planning exams and preventive screenings; also assess their healthy diet, levels of activity and mental health.

Movement for Women's Health

Recognizing that progress in women's health and well-being in the past have been far and few between, President Obama is committed to help girls and women to get the health care they need thanks to the affordable care Act. The new health law brought a new era of equality and of women who received a check on their health.

Starting in 2014, women will no longer meet increased insurance premiums because of their sex or be denied coverage because of pre-existing conditions such as pregnancy or cancer. 47 million women have had access to preventive services without cost out-of-pocket, including domestic violence screenings, counseling, contraceptives and more care.

screenings and regular checkups should be a priority and are essential to lead a long and healthy life. Early detection can increase the chances of survival and save lives. Thank you to the Affordable Care Act, women can receive these preventive screenings without cost out-pocket as copays.

Resources for Women

As we focus help women more, healthier lives, there are many great resources available for those interested in the learning and participation in behaviors welfare oriented. Schedule a conversation with your doctor or take advantage of the Industrial Resources Health Women's Health and Human Services. You can find specific ways to improve your health, learn about health campaigns and programs for women and view statistics, health guidelines and more.

Help us kick off the National Week for women's health by 'love' our Facebook page! All week GoHealth will donate to women's health organization for every 50 new 'like' our Facebook page.

As the full implementation of the Affordable Care Act draws near, many uninsured Americans - Deemed "bankable" may struggle with this method of payment they can use to buy their insurance coverage. By definition, unbankables do not have a traditional checking or savings account, making it difficult to pay their bills.

According to the investigation Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation in 2012, a household of twelve in the United States, approximately 17 million adults, are not bankable. In addition, 51 million American adults have a fragile banking relationship, forcing them to rely on cashing store checks and money lenders, as opposed to credit or check cards and accounts saving.

The new law on health care requires most Americans to purchase health insurance from 1 January 2014, but it does not require health insurers to accept all forms of payment. For example, most health plans currently accept credit card for payment of the first month premium and then allow customers to pay monthly with a check or an electronic funds transfer from a checking account.

Medical Loss Ratios (MLR) together under the Affordable Care Act requires that health insurers spend a certain percentage of premium dollars on medical claims and improving care versus administrative costs and overhead. Therefore, some providers may not accept payment by credit or debit card. Instead, they will ask consumers to send monthly checks, which would not be a viable option for many Americans.

concerned experts estimate that some consumers may choose insurance coverage to avoid returned check fees and overdraft fees that can result from the use of a checking account.

In a landmark victory for the movement of gay rights, the Supreme Court ruled the defense of the law on marriage unconstitutional, citing that it violates the fifth amendment right to equal freedom. Finally, same-sex couples can expect the expected benefits for a long time. DOMA once denied over 1,000 federal benefits to married same-sex couples, perhaps most especially those related to health care.

Previously on DOMA, same-sex couples are not beneficial for the tax-free health for their national partners. In 07, the Center for American Progress and the Williams Institute of UCLA reported that employees with same-sex partners paid $ 1,000 more in taxes every year than married couples.

Now, more than 100,000 same-sex couples who are legally married and living in one of the 12 states or the District of Columbia, where gay marriage is legal will receive a tax-free coverage sponsored by employer health, family and sick leave, tax credits Internal Revenue Service and survivors' benefits. Those who live in one of 38 other states will likely receive fewer benefits.

Although this change will undoubtedly be well received by the persons concerned, it will certainly test the employers. Benefits experts do not expect a drastic increase in benefit costs employers; However, large companies operating in several states will keep track of who lives in what jurisdiction.

Earlier this year, nearly 300 US employers, large and small, signed an amicus brief against DOMA, arguing that the treatment of same-sex couples differently hurt recruitment efforts, as well that the employer-employee relationship. According to the Coalition of Human Rights, a group that advocates for gay rights, 62 percent of Fortune 500 companies have chosen to offer health benefits domestic partners regardless of the federal position.

Before employers begin to make changes to their benefit plan, experts say that the Internal Revenue Service and the Department of Health and Human Services will issue clarifications.

Some recently deployed buzz worthy statistics, suggesting the effect that the Act affordable care (ACA) will be at the state level. The first, from the New York State Department of Financial Services reported that the state will probably see a 50 percent reduction in premiums for individuals. The second, the Ministry of Indiana Insurance provides that health insurance policies are held to increase an average monthly price of $ 570 (an increase of 72 percent compared to current state rates).

The two statistics tell a compelling story about what can happen during open enrollment in October but really how can we tell from these numbers? Here's what you need to know.

Shots The Indiana statistical Includes high prices

The numbers that came out of Indiana seem to suggest strong increases for the average Hoosier. Under the ACA, there are four different levels of plans offered by insurance exchanges. The cheapest options are bronze and silver planes followed by the most expensive Gold and Platinum plans. the Indiana officials took the average rates for all of these plans without looking into how many people actually buy each.

Massachusetts shows people often choose Lower Tier Health Plans

Massachusetts was the model for the National Law Affordable Care, it is often helpful to see how their residents went to buying insurance. In Massachusetts, only 8 percent of those registered chose the more expensive plans. Eighty-four percent of residents chose a bronze plan or money. Although each state is different, an Indiana insurer accepts that registered will most likely choose the two cheaper plans. Health Plan doctors Indiana estimates that 45 percent will choose the cheaper bronze plan and another 38 percent will choose the silver plan. Taking into account the residents' purchasing trends, the number Indiana seems less a reflection of what could happen elsewhere.

The 50 percent of New York in premiums No common nationally

main reason people may see a drop in prices is due to New York law that were already on the books before the creation of the ACA. New York, already demanded specific guidelines for health care which prohibits the discharge of those with pre-existing conditions. Without a requirement for insurance, which primarily means that the elderly and the sick were on insurance rolls. With the current insurance mandate, healthier people and young people are likely to enroll in New York, the leading cause of lower premium prices. Other states such as New Jersey, Maine and Vermont have similar rules so that they could also see a similar reduction.

What we know is that neither Indiana, New York, Massachusetts or ACA statistics can be taken to reflect a national effect. Although, ideally, most states will see reasonable premiums such as California and New York, only time will tell for each individual state.

Today, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) published its first rule for health insurance since the cancellation of the defense of marriage Act in June 2013. the new decision stipulates that all beneficiaries of Medicare Advantage, regardless of sexual orientation, have equal access for coverage in a nursing home where their spouse is living.

Prior to the announcement, an enrollee Medicare advantage in a same-sex marriage has not had access to this coverage and could be separated from his spouse or face higher costs. Without equal access, many beneficiaries face the choice to get coverage by another nursing home or poorly-inclusion of Medicare Advantage plan and pay more out-of-pocket for care in the same house nursing. This recent warranty coverage applies to all married couples, including same-sex, no matter where they live as long as it is a legally recognized marriage.

In the press release, HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius said, "today's announcement is the first of many steps we will take in the coming months to clarify the effects of the decision Supreme Court to ensure that sex couples are treated equally under the law. "

In the wake of the Supreme Court to overturn DOMA, the White House ordered all executive departments in cooperation with the Ministry of Justice of the United States, to revise their policies. In another step, the Treasury Department announced that gay couples legally married can also generate federal tax returns, regardless of where they live. Currently thirteen states and the District of Columbia have legalized same-sex marriage; including California, Connecticut, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont and Washington.

Unable to come to a final night funding agreement, the US government closed shortly after midnight. This is the first stop of the federal government to occur in 17 years. The ruling comes from a stalemate between Democrats and Republicans vote on a spending plan that includes provisions on the Affordable Care Act signed by the President.

This change also comes hand in hand with another important event- the National Health Insurance markets beginning. While many government departments and agencies are closed or suspended, it is important to note that the Law Affordable Care activities, such as Medicaid and the market will still be in effect.

Yes, that means that millions of Americans can continue to shop for health insurance as planned with their exchange of federal health or state-based. The deployment of health exchanges mark a crucial step in the expansion of health care. By law, most individuals without insurance on January 1, 2014 could face a fine. Stopping the government should not have an immediate effect on insurance markets as they are operated with funds that do not depend exclusively of Congress.

While trade is still up and running this week, the president provides some glitches. HealthDay News reports that in exchange for health officials in Colorado, Oregon and the District of Columbia have experienced problems with computer systems before opening enrollment. For those who can not apply for coverage online, there are also several ways to connect with accredited agents and partners.

Despite the back-and-forth to Congress, consumers can access the new market GoHealthInsurance.com or call (888) 322-7557 8:00 to 8:00 p.m., 7 days a week to talk with a licensed counselor about their options.

GoHealth President Brandon Cruz speaks of Obamacare technology issues with NBC News Maggie Fox.

READ MORE

http://www.nbcnews.com/health/better-use-phone-why-obamacare-website-such-fail-8C11433702

The District of Columbia Circuit Court of Appeals issued a decision Friday to President Obama invalidate key requirement that health insurers pay for contraception. If "Gilardi v. US Department of Health & Human Services," the federal appeals court overturned a lower court decision stating that the owners of the company "Freshway Foods and Freshway Logistics" Sidney, Ohio, will should not be forced to provide contraception coverage to their employees.

This lawsuit refers to the provision of the affordable care Act requiring employers with 50 or more workers to provide health insurance and coverage for contraceptives and care related to pregnancy, or pay a fine. the law exempts places of worship from the requirement.

According to CNN reports, hand companies are ownership of two Catholic brothers who are opposed to access to birth control. with the recent decision, the trial can continue and for the moment the employer mandate will not be applied to Gilardi brothers.

A three-judge panel ruled 2-1, citing that to force the owners to pay for the coverage violates their first amendment rights, for the protection of their religion. Judge Janice Rogers Brown wrote for the court decision, "Requests for contraceptives because the owners really approve and endorse the inclusion of contraceptive coverage in plans provided by employers to their businesses, on whatever objections they might have. "

This is not the first trial in this manner. At least 75 separate lawsuits were filed in the Federal Court by the companies whose owners oppose the mandate for religious reasons, some decision in favor of the mandate and some striking down. In fact, three of these appeals are pending at the Supreme Court, but has not yet been examined. The Department of Health and Human Services could not comment on pending litigation.

Consumers will now have an extra week to register for health coverage under the affordable care Act, if they want coverage to begin January 1st. The Obama administration announced that it would extend the deadline until December 23. The decision gives consumers more time to compare coverage options and enroll. The initial deadline to complete the registration was set for December 15.

The move highlights the sensitivity of the time and the pressure of the Obama administration and Democrats to get health insurance exchanges the law and running successfully. Officials cited difficulties with the federal exchange website, HealthCare.gov within, and think the change will help accommodate the crowds estimated using federal and state trade in the coming weeks.

Moreover, the Obama administration announced that starting next year, it will delay the start of the enrollment period for those who buy insurance and individual companies small to mid-November, rather than mid-October. The open enrollment period begins November 15th 2014 and will last until January. The spokesman of the White House Jay Carney added: "It gives more time to assess the pool of people who get insurance through the market and then make decisions on what the rate will look like in the year come. "

Although the decision aims to simplify life, some analysts said the change of date could actually pose a challenge to some consumers devoid of health insurance. by extending the enrollment period to overlap the holiday season, consumers with a lack of disposable income might feel conflicted between buying health insurance and buying gifts. the companies' insurance may also find it more difficult to process registrations in time for coverage to begin January 1.

What are your thoughts on the decision to postpone the registration deadlines? Is it harmful to consumers and insurance companies more help?

For the first time in 15 years, Perry B. of Grand Rapids, Michigan is assured.

"There is an incredible feeling to know that if I get hurt or sick, I'm covered," Perry said.

He enrolled in a health insurance scheme name brand for himself and his wife by GoHealth. His premium costs him $ 54.76 a month.

Perry is a father of three children and earns his living as a social worker. Like most people shopping for private insurance this year, Perry qualified for a tax subsidy that reduces the cost of insurance. The subsidy allows him to save $ 380 per month.

Perry learned about eligibility for reduced costs after connecting with a counselor licensed insurance GoHealth. He said in 15 minutes, his insurance advisor answered questions and signed him to a plane

"The best thing about it -. It was simple."

Most people shopping for individual insurance or family health qualify for savings. Visit www.gohealthinsurance.com to see how much you could save today.

For many years, the LGBT community has known disparities in health system as they were denied the same rights as heterosexual Americans, have been found to have a high percentage of pre-existing medical conditions and have struggled to find affordable health insurance. Now, members of the LGBT community can have a sense of ease, as the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and recent Defense of Marriage Act decision bring new rights and health protection.

Under the ACA, the insurance companies can not discriminate based on gender identity or sexual orientation, which means that members of the LGBT community can not be denied coverage or pay more to be lesbians, gay, bisexual or transgender. In addition, health insurers can not limit how much money they will spend on health care, more than a year or a lifetime. For the first time, anyone living with a preexisting medical condition, including HIV / AIDS, can not be denied health insurance. These changes are important to the LGBT community that studies have shown that LGBT people suffer from chronic diseases that require long-term costs at a higher rate than other Americans.

Just as married heterosexual couples, same sex couples legally married, now have access to federal tax credits that lower the cost of insurance. Even if a gay or lesbian couple live in a state that does not recognize same-sex marriage, they can still jointly apply for federal tax credits. This victory for the LGBT community came in June 2014 when the Supreme Court of the United States has canceled part of the Defense of Marriage Act. This decision also allows married same-sex couples the right to visit their partner in the hospital and appoint a representative to make medical decisions on behalf of a patient.

Finally, under the new Medicaid expansion, more LGBT Americans will now qualify for Medicaid if their incomes fall below the poverty line. This expansion is important to the LGBT community because, according to a report by the Williams Institute, the LGBT community is more likely to live in poverty, especially men and transgender women because they are less likely to find a employment.

With all the changes Americans are facing, to find affordable comprehensive health plan can be frustrating and confusing. GoHealthInsurance provides certified counselors toll that can recommend and help consumers choose a plan that fits their lifestyle and needs. GoHealth licensed counselors can also see if you qualify for tax and apply them to cover your loans, ensuring that the effective and beneficial economic plan as is obtained. To compare health insurance options or to speak with a licensed counselor, visit GoHealth market.

Outside of open enrollment, you can buy Obamacare if you qualify for a special enrollment period (Complicated MS). Most SEPs are awarded for qualifying life events such as getting married, having a baby, or move to a new state. However, there are also complex cases that can also give you the opportunity to buy a major outside medical health plan (Obamacare) open enrollment. Check the list below to see if you may qualify.

• complex cases
  • Exceptional circumstances
    • Ex. You faced a serious medical condition that prevented you from registering
  • Disinformation or misrepresentation
    • Ex. Misinformation from an insurance company or agent led to register in the wrong plan
  • registration error
    • Ex. Your request has been rejected because of missing data
  • system errors related to immigration status
    • Ex. a processing error because of your immigration eligibility to be inaccurate when you applied for coverage
  • incorrect Medicaid transfers
    • Ex. You have been ill advised to be eligible for Medicaid
  • The victims of domestic violence
    • Ex. you were not allowed to register and receive a tax subsidy separately with your spouse
  • other system error
    • Ex. you have experienced other errors system that prevented you from registering
  • Inability to complete the registration before the open enrollment ended

If you think you qualify for a special enrollment period, contact 888-322-7557 or visit GoHealthInsurance.com.

GoHealth is a finalist for "Breakthrough Digital Company of the Year" for 2014 Built in Chicago Moxie Price . prices Moxie recognize innovative digital companies and entrepreneurs in Chicago. GoHealth was selected from over 7,000 applications and is one of five finalists in its category.

a combination of public voting and judges determine the winner, so GoHealth needs your votes you can vote every day from now until June 10, 2014. to vote, please follow the link!: http://moxieawards.builtinchicago.org/vote.

winners will be announced at an awards ceremony June 19, 2014 at West Park in Chicago. GoHealth appreciate your support and are honored to be recognized among the technology community.

GoHealth Why vote?

GoHealth use its technological industry expertise and world-class to evolve with the reform of health care and to consolidate its position as a leader in the health insurance industry . Last year GoHealth has formed strategic agreements with the federal government to offer health plans market under the Affordable Care Act, becoming the first private exchange in the country to put the Americans in the health coverage subsidized by the federal government.

GoHealth is now one of the largest private exchange of the nation, registration of Americans through its proprietary technology and on the phone with a counselor licensed services. In addition, GoHealth has partnered with leading national retailers to help people throughout the United States now enroll in individual health insurance mandate.