When health care reform goes into effect in 2014, people under a certain income threshold will qualify for subsidies in the form of tax credits to help offset the price of health insurance, if they buy a plan through an exchange. Individuals whose earnings are less than about $46,000 per year will benefit from the…
Category: Individual Health Insurance
CoverColorado is going away. Now what?
Those who are insured by CoverColorado must be wondering what’s in store for them in 2014. Well, to start, it is going away. Here is the letter that CoverColorado sent out to all insureds explaining how this program plans to wind down. But, there will be options for its beneficiaries. If you have any questions about this, just give…
Connect for Health Colorado has awarded $17 million in grants to support their Assistance Network (aka “health care navigators”), a group of organizations aimed at educating the public about the new exchange and options for healthcare in 2014 and beyond. $2.1 million of that total has been allocated for Northern Colorado. These 6 organizations have…
The Colorado Consumer Health Initiative (CCHI) analyzed plans filed by insurance carriers to be sold in the Connect for Health Colorado exchange, and released sample rates for 2014. The following examples are estimated rates for silver level plans. Silver level policies are designed to cover 70% of all health care costs for the average person….
The Affordable Care Act goes into effect in January 2014, and enacts the requirement that health insurance coverage be guaranteed issue for all, which means that no one can be denied or charged extra for preexisting health conditions. There are three situations most people will find themselves in come next year. Some will be covered…
Anyone who’s ever dealt with the terminal illness of a loved one understands the emotional, physical, and often financial stress a family takes on during an exceedingly difficult time. Tough decisions must be made by all, but are these choices really in the best interest of the family, or the dying person? Shockingly, 1/4 of…
Criminals these days will take any opportunity possible to steal your identity to use to their own advantage. This is common when new changes in government policy occur. It’s not surprising that President Obama’s Affordable Care Act has already proven to be a means for these offenders to attempt to gain valuable personal information. The…
What health insurance companies are going to be on the Colorado health insurance exchange?
The Colorado Health Insurance Exchange recently announced which carriers have submitted plans to the Division of Insurance (DOI) for approval, and would likely take part in the online insurance exchange. This list includes insurance companies that will offer both individual and/or small group health plans: All Savers Insurance Company (Individual) Anthem (HMO Colorado and Rocky…
Essential Health Benefits are basically what the Affordable Care Act says must be covered with no lifetime maximums, on every fully insured small group and individual health insurance policy starting January 1st, 2014 (or on the first day of the plan year following January 1st, 2014): • Ambulatory patient services • Emergency services • Hospitalization…
The Price of Smoking is About to Go Up Significantly.
If you smoke or otherwise use tobacco, starting in 2014 you can have your insurance premiums increased by up to 50%. BUT, there is some good news on the horizon. There is a proposed rule that would exempt tobacco users from this premium increase IF you enter a smoking cessation program. So, if living a longer,…