‘Messy’ future ahead for health care market
A boom in private exchanges and a changing distribution system for health care will create a new landscape for benefits managers and advisers, with more emphasis on consumer-directed health care.
Healthcare reform
CA insurance rate ballot measure could become countrywide concern
A proposal up for vote in the most populous state would give the insurance commissioner veto power over health insurance rates, among other things, and has brokers fearful of the trend spreading to other states.
Senate bill to overturn SCOTUS Hobby Lobby decision blocked
The Senate Wednesday failed to get enough support for its reversal plan of the recent Supreme Court Hobby Lobby ruling that will allow some employers to decline providing insurance coverage for some forms of birth control based on religious grounds.
More than 10 million sought ACA enrollment help outside of brokers
Millions of Americans sought help from navigators and assisters during the ACA's first open-enrollment period, but many were more satisfied with help from a benefit adviser.
HIX enrollees health issues as costly as anticipated
In whats being described as the first comprehensive research examining the health status of HIX enrollees, the Kaiser Family Foundation has confirmed industry suspicions that public exchanges would cover a sicker population than traditional avenues.
Some brokers still not paid on ACA exchanges
The status of payments to brokers for their work signing up consumers across the nation varies from state to state and broker to broker, with some missing nearly 50% of commissions and others reporting no problems whatsoever.
House to sue Obama over ACAs employer mandate delay
The U.S. House of Representatives will sue President Barack Obamas administration over delaying the implementation of an employer health insurance mandate in the Affordable Care Act.
Hobby Lobby likely not ‘defining moment’ for ACA compliance
For most employers, the Hobby Lobby decision will have little impact, meaning they will have to comply with the ACA as written. Looking for loopholes can be risky, not just for ACA compliance but also for ERISA compliance, generally.
Expanded coverage under ACA means more work for advisers, little extra pay
Millions more Americans have gained coverage as a result of the health reform law, increasing the workload for benefit advisers, but not necessarily the compensation they receive.
New York HIX insurers seek double-digit premium increases
The six most popular insurance plans on the New York state health insurance exchange are seeking double-digit increases in their premium rates for next year, with an average request of a 14.6% rate hike.
‘Aggressive’ compliance enforcement a top concern for employers
As reports of more DOL audits continue to spook benefit advisers into talking compliance with their clients, employers are confirming that they, too, are fearful of federal agencies monitoring.
Benefits Think Key questions to ask private exchange providers
Commentary: Exchanges have been successful for retiree coverage. But, will they work for core coverage? Frenkel Benefits Craig Hasday shares points to consider with your clients.
Times up for mini-med plans as skinny plans gain focus
With the major elements of the Affordable Care Act taking effect this year, mini-med plans have met their demise, but skinny plans are gaining traction in their place.
How to expand business with HR, legal, ACA resources
What gives brokers a competitive edge? In many cases, its giving clients the feeling that they are getting the maximum value for their investment in employee benefits.
Most federal HIX inconsistencies went unresolved
A new HHS report finds most inconsistencies on the federally run state exchanges went unresolved due to inoperative systems.
Most federal HIX inconsistencies went unresolved
Nearly all inconsistencies for those who enrolled for health care through the Affordable Care Acts federal exchanges were unable to be resolved due to Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services systems not being fully operational.
IRS finalizes regulations for health insurance tax credits for small employers
The IRS has issued final regulations clarifying tax credits for small employers offering coverage to their employees through the SHOP exchange.
Low HSA contribution amounts suggest need for more adviser guidance
While health plans with accompanying HSAs are becoming increasingly popular, theres evidence that employees arent always seizing the opportunity to save, or save the maximum amount.
Protect your brokerage while selling on the ACA exchanges
One speaker at the National Association for Health Underwriters annual conference Monday provided suggestions for brokers to protect their businesses, as well as increase referrals, when enrolling individuals and small businesses on the public marketplaces.
NAHU CEO: Lawmakers know who you are
Kicking off the National Association for Health Underwriters annual meeting Monday, the groups lead lobbyist outlined the current status of benefit brokers in the eyes of Washington, while a Republican politician discussed potential outcomes of the 2014 election.