Number of uninsured still rising, census numbers show
New data reflect an increase in the number of uninsured Americans, prompting some benefit industry representatives to question the impact of federal health care reform.
Marli D. Riggs
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Immediate benefits await with discount plans
If you're looking to build your revenue sources and help your clients introduce or expand their health benefits, voluntary benefit discount programs might be the perfect fit.
Benchmarks: CDHPs grow despite savings erosion
Consumer driven health plans continue to grow in popularity despite a waning impact on cost control, according to preliminary results in a recent United Benefits Advisors survey.
PPACA regs require simple summaries of health plan options
The Obama administration last week issued regulations intended to improve employees understanding of their health plan options, as called for by the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.
Brokers optimistic about their future in tough environment
Although concerned about challenges in the business environment, brokers and consultants are confident they will find a variety of ways to prosper, according to MetLifes Broker and Consultant Study released last week.
Nearly half of employers plan to include voluntary benefits in the next year
Almost half of employers surveyed in July by Colonial Life & Accident Insurance Company say they plan to add voluntary benefits to their plans within the next year.
Fixed indemnity plans continue to prosper despite health reform
Although both fixed indemnity and expense incurred limited medical plans continue to be impacted by the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, fixed indemnity plans are weathering the storm relatively intact, while the expense incurred structure has taken a beating, experts say. Fixed-indemnity plans do not have to comply with PPACA regulations because they do not mimic major medical insurance policies as expense incurred plans do.
Annual NAHU convention brings optimism, but also a reality check
Hundreds of National Association of Health Underwriters members attending the organization's 81st annual convention June 26-29 were treated to a round of "Don't Stop Believing" by Journey as the convention kicked off in San Antonio – setting the stage for the positive outlook promoted by NAHU throughout the event.
One in four consumers prefer to buy insurance direct
Americans are slowly shifting toward buying insurance direct rather than meeting with an insurance professional face-to-face. More than one in four adults prefer to purchase life insurance online, over the phone or through the mail, according to a New LIFE and LIMRA study released Wednesday.
Senator urges Sebelius to remove agent compensation from MLR rule
Louisiana Sen. Mary L. Landrieu urges Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius to remove agent compensation from the medical loss ratio rule.
Bill would allow consumers to keep FSA funds
A new bill introduced in the Senate last week could help consumers keep their employer-sponsored flexible spending account funds at the end of the year.
More PPACA waivers granted; tally increases to 1,471
As of the end of June, 39 new approvals have bumped the number of annual limit waivers to 1,471. The one-year waivers are designed to help organizations delay provisions of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.
Work remains on NAIC broker bill endorsement
Although the National Association of Insurance Commissioners on July 12 tabled their support of H.R. 1206, a bill that would exclude insurance agents compensation from the medical loss ratio equation, theres a lot of work still to be done on this issue and we look forward to our continuing work with the NAIC, HHS and Congress to find a suitable solution, says Brianne Mallaghan, director of communications for The Council of Insurance Agents & Brokers.
Survey shows advisers must factor family support into retirement needs
When Americans think about retirement one of the main obligations they feel is the need to offer financial assistance to their adult children. More than 60% of respondents to a July 12 SunAmerica Financial Group survey expect that they will be helping their adult children as well as their spouse, grandchildren and siblings.
Eastbridge report recognizes Wellpoint, CIGNA as voluntary sales growth leaders
Eastbridges annual U.S. Worksite Sales Report found that voluntary sales in 2010 were $5.243 billion, down about 3% compared to 2009. Although the number dipped slightly not all companies saw a decrease. The consulting firm recognizes Wellpoint and CIGNA as leading the industry in voluntary sales growth.
NAHU: NAIC task force right to endorse MLR bill, HHS must delay enforcement
The National Association of Health Underwriters commends the June 30 decision of a National Association of Insurance Commissioners broker task force to endorse a bill in Congress that would provide state insurance regulators more freedom when it comes to the medical loss ratio implementation.
Increasing demand for 401(k) advice
Almost 80% of employers anticipate that there will be an increased demand for access to savings and investment advice about their 401(k) plans, according to a new survey from Bank of America Merrill Lynch.
Finding business in an untapped DI market
In today's uncertain economy more married women have found themselves thrust into the role of breadwinner. When selling disability insurance, advisers need a marketing strategy that connects with them effectively.
Size matters in voluntary plans
The mid-size market is a bright spot for voluntary sales in an otherwise stagnant economy, according to LIMRA research.