Health Insurance Enrollment Process

With the recent statement by President Obama that he thinks gay marriage should be legal, the press has been buzzing about the rights of same sex couples more than usual - and that is saying something. We like a hot controversial topic, as long as it binds the hottest topic of all - health insurance

You might be surprised to discover that last year, 52 percent of employers interior already offered health benefits partners. This represents an increase of 31 percent in 2010. These statistics are from a recent survey conducted by Mercer , a group of consultancy services. Apparently, employers tend to think that by offering domestic partner health insurance, they will be able to attract a larger pool of talent interested in staying on board for longer periods.

It seems that times they are a changin '.

It should be noted, however, that the percentage of firms that offer group health insurance that meet national partners varies greatly depending on what part of the country you are working. in the West, 79 percent of large companies extend this advantage, while only 28 percent do in the South.

There are several points around the question:

• In 1982, The Village Voice newspaper in New York was the first private employer never to offer domestic benefits partners to their employees.
• In 1995, Vermont became the first state to offer benefits to the domestic partners of state workers.
• 58 percent of Fortune 500 companies currently offer domestic partner benefits.
• Same- sex partners of federal workers are still not eligible for domestic partners benefits because of the Defense of 1996 law on marriage. There is much opposition to this law and it is likely that the matter will be brought before the Supreme Court.

If you are obsessed with health care news as we are, it was a great week to be alive! There were so informative articles and frankly interesting to check; we know not where to begin. It is impossible to choose a favorite, but here are the five health-related GoHealth articles of the week:

1. Pitching to take care of the grandmother : This piece National public Radio by David Greene offers a look touching on how a family of Pennsylvania decided to take care of their 87-year-old matriarch, grandmother "Snootzie." Each member of the family plays a role in ensuring Snootzie is healthy and happy. It is particularly refreshing to see young grandchildren take responsibility in such love and compassion.

2. unicellular Office Mates, by the thousands : New York Times writer Sindya N. Bhanoo highlights the results of a recent study of germs and bacteria in the gaps Office. For whether'S office spaces for women or men have more bacteria and reasons.

3. Fairview Senate hearing begins Franken Questioning whether tactics Hurt care : Okay, the title of this one is not so eye-catching, but the information is a bit shocking . Christopher Snowbeck TwinCities.com the Pioneer Press explains the details of a complaint against a Minnesota hospital where patients are allegedly "hospitalized with a bill collector at their side."

4. 'Smell Old -Responsable' really exist, scientists say : one of our favorite health writers, Alexandra SIFFERLIN Time Healthland reports confirm that there is a smell which is distinct for people of a certain age. The kicker is, it is not naphthalene

5. Insurers Forcing patients to pay more for expensive specialty drugs : This one is a bit controversial. Chad Terhune Los Angeles Times reports on why some vital drugs become too expensive for people who need

Well, there you have it, people -. A fascinating mishmash of this week's new health care. Have a happy weekend healthy!

The authors of the blog GoHealth are always on the lookout for the latest health care and Medicare news to share with our readers. That means we do research and read health insurance articles - a lot!

In reading the many articles on a daily basis, you can not help but notice that some journalists tend to pique your interest more than others. It's not just their sound advice and reliable information, either. They have health care, "I do not know what" that just pushes us wild

In no particular order, here are the list of Five medical journalists GoHealth

1. @KerryHannon Kerry Hannon wrote about much more than health insurance, but when she does it always gets our attention. by focusing on financial journalism, Kerry is now a contributing editor for States US News & World Report, and USA Today. She is also the use of experts from AARP, contributes to Forbes magazine and writes the "Second Verse" blog for Forbes.com.

2. @ezraklein Ezra Klein, who started his first blog in 03, is a blogger and columnist for the Washington Post, a contributor to MSNBC and columnist Bloomberg. his bio reads "his work focuses on domestic and economic policy and the political system that continues to screw it up. "We like his straightforward approach.

3. @sarahkliff Sarah Kliff, formerly of Politico, now covers health policy for the Washington Post. That means she is a colleague Ezra! So much talent in one publication. We admire the ability of Sarah to stay on top of all the latest issues of health care and to a subject sometimes "dry" living.

4. @JeffreyYoung_HC Jeffrey Young wrote all about health care for the Huffington Post. His blog entries are thoughtful, informative, and if necessary, rather spiritual. His extensive experience comes from years of writing experience for organizations like Bloomberg News and The Hill.

5. @lisazamosky Lisa Zamosky is another of our absolute favorites. She writes "Health Insurance Navigator" and WebMD blog is a work corresponding to California Healthline and iHealthBeat. She has also written many as consumer health columnist for the L.A. Times. Lisa is considered an expert in his field, and we are pleased to have him as a resource.

Somewhere in the midst of the chaotic chatter on the decision of the Supreme Court on the health care reform and to respect the individual mandate, you could have heard a brief murmur about a decision on the Medicaid expansion. If this were the movie "Beaches," the individual mandate was Bette Midler and Barbara Medicaid expansion was the name thing.

However, the decision of the Supreme Court that it is unconstitutional to require states to develop Medicaid or face a heavy tax deserves much more time in the spotlight. Let's take a look at what went down yesterday with Medicaid.

What Medicaid, anyway?
Medicaid is a program that provides low-income Americans with health care. Each state runs its special Medicaid program under guidelines the federal government and the Fed has paid a large sum of money to each state to keep the program running. This amount varies between states, but the average amount the federal government pays each state is 57 percent of the bill.

Medicaid is basically the cheapest insurance available. eligible Medicaid include low-income children, parents and people with disabilities. Although it provides a needed service to the poor of our country, there are certainly limits to coverage and it does not pay health care providers very well at all.

What was decided on in the first place?
The Act on the Protection and Affordable Care Patient (PPACA) included plans to greatly expand the Medicaid program in the country. The law aimed to make Medicaid available to everyone with incomes below 133 percent of the federal poverty level. Using the most recent data, anyone who made $ 14,856 per year would be eligible, regardless of age or health status.

The cost of the expanded Medicaid would initially be paid in full by the federal government. After several years, each state would have to pay 10 percent. Here is where many states (26 to be exact) started to get angry: Do not take the federal government on their offer of Medicaid expansion could lead to lose their existing Medicaid funding. The 26 statements were essentially blackmail sense by expanding Medicaid coverage.

What was the final decision?
The Supreme Court agreed that it was coercive and unconstitutional if the law worked to remove existing Medicaid funding from state. Judge Roberts said: "In this case, the" incitement "Congress Financial has chosen is much more than" relatively mild encouragement '-.? There is a gun to the head

Now that
States have important decisions to make. Simply because they now have the option not to expand Medicaid coverage does not mean they will not. About 9 million people would get coverage in all 26 states as a result of the PPACA.

Keeping in mind that there is a huge financial incentive - 100 percent of covered care for newly added Medicaid participants for the first 3 years - it is expected that the governors will be pushed by their citizens to accept the terms.

For the first time, the FDA approved a drug called Truvada for prevention infection by HIV. It has been 32 years since the first AIDS case was recognized at the time was reported to the Center for Disease Control.

By that time, the subject of HIV increased from fear and misunderstood part of the vernacular of our nation. While Americans have become more educated on the prevention and treatment have made HIV infection no longer seem like a death sentence, there has never been a preventive drug of this kind.

About Drugs:

Truvada was approved as a pill once a day can significantly reduce the risk of contracting HIV, the virus that causes AIDS from one person .

It is much too early to know if the health insurance companies will pay for the drug. The cost of a year's supply without health insurance is about $ 13,000 per year.

When taken correctly, Truvada has been shown to significantly reduce the chances of contracting HIV:

• When accompanied by the use of condoms and consulting, the risk of infection among gays and bisexual men in good health was reduced by 42 percent.
• in heterosexual couples in which one partner was infected with HIV and the other was not, the risk of infection was reduced by 75 percent.

This is not a quick and easy solution to stay negative. Truvada should be taken every day with diligence. Missing doses causes the preventive effects to decline sharply.

Truvada is a newly developed drug. He has been on the market for years as a way to treat people who have already contracted the HIV virus.

There is no doubt that it is difficult there for people trying to earn a decent buck and put some on the side. In fact, nearly 40 percent of Americans say they live paycheck. In times like these, it usually makes sense to cut unnecessary monthly costs. Health insurance should never be considered one of them. Repeat - health insurance is not an unnecessary monthly cost

In the case of a serious illness or injury, do not have health insurance could easily paralyze you and your family financially. If you are on a budget, there are less expensive health insurance options to be considered:

Catastrophic Coverage
This type of plan involves a high deductible and a low monthly premium. Often, young and healthy people who are not covered by the plan of their parents are a good fit for a franchise low high premium scheme. Adults aged between 50 and 65 are also designed this plan on a regular basis. It may be a good choice for them if they can afford the occasional medical services but would be severely strained financial emergency.

Short-term Plan
A short term health insurance plan provides coverage for a period of time ranging from months to a year. These plans are a good choice for people who are looking to make sure they are covered in case of a disaster, unexpected health emergency. Monthly premiums are more affordable for short-term plans, but routine office visits and prescription drugs are not covered. The application process for short-term health insurance plans are simple and streamlined compared to other types of plans. However, people with pre-existing conditions have little hope of being approved.

Join plane of a parent
Under the Affordable Care Act, young adults under 26 years old are eligible to remain in the insurance scheme health of a parent. This has contributed to some 6.6 million young adults remain or get in terms of their family.

Every year there is a time period in which consumers who are 65 years and may change, register, drop or switch Medicare Advantage Plans and Medicare Part D. This time period is known as open enrollment

This year, the time period will be held from October 15 to December 7 -. Leaving the elderly a couple of months to look for and discover their Medicare. options

Here is a glossary to help you prepare for the open enrollment period this year:

beneficiary
a person eligible for inclusion in the Medicare program

Formulary
the list of all the prescription drugs covered

Medicare Advantage: also known as Medicare Part C
Part C was designed to give Medicare beneficiaries the option to purchase coverage through a private health insurance company. These plans provide coverage for all the same services that Part A and B but are administered by private carriers. These plans often include additional benefits.

Each year, an increasing number of people choose Part C Today, one in four Americans purchase a Medicare Advantage plan.

Medicare Supplement :. Also known as Medigap
additional insurance coverage purchased by private insurance companies to cover part of the cost of regular health care Medicare does not

Medicare Part A
Medicare Part A covers hospital care and skilled nursing care. Patients get full coverage if they stay in a health facility for at least 3 days.

Part A covers care for a health problem up to 100 days. Beneficiaries will not need to pay anything for the first 20 days, but have to pay a co-payment for the next 80 days. But Part A does not provide coverage for long term care or unskilled custodial care.
There are also no monthly premium for Part A.

Medicare Part B
Part B provides coverage for most ambulatory medical care, including

• physician services
• Lab and diagnostic testing
• X-ray
• outpatient hospital

Part B also covers the cost of medical equipment such as wheelchairs, walkers, prostheses, and home oxygen.

Medicare Part B is optional for those who work full time, but is mandatory for anyone not actively in use. A premium is paid each month to cover Part B

Medicare Part D
Medicare prescription drug plans -. Unofficially known as Medicare Part D, provide coverage for prescription drugs. Before Part D was created, Medicare has provided no drug coverage

Part D is an optional benefit Medicare -. And is administered by private insurers. The federal government sets certain requirements on the plans, but it is up to private companies that offer plans to decide which drugs to cover.

To sign up for Medicare Part D Beneficiaries may choose a prescription drug insurance plan (PDP) or a Medicare Advantage plan that includes drug coverage (MA-PD).

premium
The payment must be made each month to keep a policy in force.

The theme of the reform of health care has taken center stage as the presidential election approaches more more. of ObamaCare 'The terms and "RomneyCare" were thrown in all media for some time. GoHealth has created a fresh, new infographic that compares and contrasts the components of the two plans.

Adopted in 2010, the health reform plan of President Obama, the Affordable Care Act Protecting Patients and closely resembles the plan of Governor Romney for the state of Massachusetts, which was adopted in 06.
Although the similarities between the two planes are undeniable, the main differences are discussed in details:
• ObamaCare requires companies with more than 50 full-time employees to provide health insurance coverage while RomneyCare sets a minimum of 11 full-time employees.
• one of the most talked ObamaCare of the objectives is the provision to close the Medicare donut hole. Since Medicare is a federal and not state-run program, there is obviously no mention of the donut hole in RomneyCare.
• ObamaCare provides Medicaid to Americans earning less than 133 percent of the federal poverty level, while RomneyCare sets the ceiling to 150 percent receive free health insurance.
• ObamaCare requires health insurers to spend 80 to 85 percent of premiums on medical care, while RomneyCare has no requirements for premium expenditures.

Take a look at the full infographic below. Just click on the image to enlarge.

Designed by GoHealthInsurance.com

One of the main goals of the Affordable Care Act, or Obamacare, is to slow the rate of previously planned Medicare increases by $ 716 billion from 2013 to 2022. some changes to Medicare designated by the reform of health care has already entered into force, and some will not be set up until 2014. Let's take a look at some of the major changes that have already occurred, as well as impending changes:

• The open enrollment period Medicare been extended to seven weeks, and now runs from 15 October to December 7. Meanwhile, those already enrolled in traditional Medicare, Medicare Advantage or Medicare Part D plan can change plans. cover changes made in 2012 will take effect on 1 January 2013.
• Co-payments are not charged for a variety of preventive screenings and vaccinations. In addition, providers can now offer a tour of annual welfare for beneficiaries and charge Medicare for her.
• Those enrolled in health insurance plans that fall into the coverage gap, commonly called the "donut hole" currently receive discounts on generic names and brand.
• in the future, the above mentioned drugs reductions will increase in 2013 and to increase continuously until 2020. at that time, Medicare beneficiaries will be responsible annually for 25 percent of the cost of drugs covered by Medicare Part D plans once they meet their deductible.
• This month, Medicare began reducing payments to hospitals with excessive readmission rates for patients over the last three years. Hospitals are now penalized for patients with pneumonia, heart attack or heart failure that is returned within 30 days of discharge.

You can learn more about how the Affordable Care Act affects Medicare and other types of health insurance coverage by visiting the reforming section health care in the GoHealth media center.

Is that simply read that headline create a groan? Yes, we know ... in this day and age, when we are all trying to cram a million different projects in our day, the last thing we want to think is to take the time to shop for health insurance. However, health insurance is a very valuable product, as suffering from a disease or injury without coverage can cripple your finances. Soon you will be legally required to buy coverage. By the Affordable Care Act, starting in 2014, the vast majority of Americans who are not covered by their employer will be required to obtain health insurance or pay a fee for failing to do so.

Fortunately, online resources and technology available today can be extremely helpful in the process of finding appropriate coverage. Gone are the days of inconvenient trips to the office of your local insurance agent. Moreover, you are not necessarily limited to local agents more. The point is, relations with a variety of the best rated insurance companies offer a multitude of options, and the process has been eased significantly.

So how, exactly, do you use a service like quotes GoHealth engine? Just follow these four steps:

• Enter basic information - Elements such as where you live and the types of insurance plans that are available in your area will help you begin to narrow down your options
[
• View health insurance plans -. Preferences such as deductibles, premiums and insurance companies will further streamline the process you review the plans available in your area
• compare benefits side-by-side - At this stage, you can compare four plans for an in-depth understanding of their benefits and associated costs
• Apply online for coverage -. from beginning to end, there is no need to speak with an agent unless that is your preference. You can even ask your chosen plan online.

As you can see, find, affordable, comprehensive health insurance plan does not induce a migraine. If you have additional questions, we are always happy to help.

mental health insurance could have helped prevent the horrible massacre Newtown, Connecticut last week? According to President Barack Obama. Yes, indirectly

Obama said as much in his speech at the memorial service in honor of the victims earlier this week, and the Affordable Care Act (ACA) explicitly includes mental health services the framework of the law. Several shooting sessions in recent years have involved armed men who were mentally unstable and led a somewhat isolated existence. In most of these cases, the gunmen took their own lives after killing their victims.

Historically, the insurance coverage for treatment of mental health was a little hard to get. According to the Substance Abuse and the National Mental latest annual report of health services administration on Drug Use and Health Report survey, one in five American adults reported having a mental illness the last year. While many modern treatments for mental illness are very effective, fewer than half of adults with a diagnosable mental illness receive appropriate treatment. In some cases, this is due to lack of coverage and / or financial resources.

The National Association of the mental state of health program managers, which serves 6.8 million per year for patients, said the general state funding for mental health care has decreased $ 4.35 billion nationally since the budget cuts were made in 09 because of the recession. The number of psychiatric hospital beds has decreased since 09, as well; 3222 beds are not available for patients, and the impending closures can eliminate 1,249 additional beds in the near future.

These statistics are even more alarming when juxtaposed against the information collected by the Bureau of Justice Statistics. In 06 alone, 56 percent of state prisoners, 45 percent of federal inmates and 64 percent of prison inmates had mental health problems. Between 10 percent and 20 percent of people with mental health problems had psychotic symptoms such as delusions and hallucinations.

The parity of mental health and the 08 Act (MHPAEA) Equity Addiction helped fill some of the gaps in coverage of mental health insurance. The law states that employers with more than 50 employees that include mental health services in their insurance plans are not allowed to cover the psychological diseases to a level below that of other medical conditions. However, problems with the bill exist - namely, the law is not always enforced, and some people still do not receive equal coverage

Under the ACA, small group and plans individual will be required to offer. insurance coverage of mental health in 2014 through a state health insurance exchanges. In addition, all policies sold through exchanges will be required to provide coverage for mental health and addiction. Questions about the types of services covered must still be answered decisively.

President Barack Obama was sworn in yesterday, marking its second mandate. In the midst of the inaugural festivities, the nation waits to see how the administration will handle the implementation of one of the central achievements of Obama's Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act

Certain provisions of the reform health care have already been held. but most of the PPACA does not take effect until 2014 and the way he plays is largely in the hands of states, employers and even consumers. news source Politico online policy outlines two scenarios concerning the fate of the law on health care during the second term of Obama.

Obamacare According to the plan

In a best case scenario, the law is taking place without complications, resulting in 30 million Americans (according to estimates by the Congressional Budget Office) obtain health coverage. Here is what should take place for the new Occupational Health Act as it should be:

• health insurance exchanges ready to offer health plans to individuals and small businesses without opposition of the State
• insurance companies accept people with pre-existing conditions
• young and healthy consumers find affordable coverage and enroll in the individual health
[élargirlesprogrammesMedicaid
• States

what could go wrong

most officials are not expecting a transition easy, seeing that several states have been reluctant to set up their own health exchanges in efforts to cripple the law. Other Obstacles include:

• not adjusting States cover conditions and pre-existing due to fear of increased premiums
• Young, premiums healthy individuals do not sign for coverage, driving up more
• Workplaces drop health coverage for employees or cutting hours
• Too many states resist the establishment own health exchanges, based on the federal government to run

true, not many expect the affordable care Act to perform uncomplicated. The nation has already seen increases in premiums and has struggled to assemble all the state of the health insurance market. The Department of Health and Human Services has acknowledged the delay and extended the deadlines for the state to work Kinks. However, supporters remain convinced that all this will take some time to develop, the law will lead to greater progress in health care.

Hope everyone had a warm and fuzzy Valentine day unless you are not into that sort of thing. In this case, perhaps a relaxing night with some Ben & Jerry or sappy movies. In other news related love, the Illinois Senate approved a bill Thursday, February 14 to legalize gay marriage.

The bill passed by a margin of almost shocking 34-21 and comes two years after the civil union legislation was passed in the state. Illinois This takes a little more to allow to marry same-sex couples, and is part of a wider victory across the country for gay rights activists.

state representative and defender Greg Harris said Bill, "It was not too long ago that people do not think they would see this day. Many parents said they did not believe that their children see this day. "

Currently, even in states where gay marriage is legal, there are still many obstacles to obtaining insurance benefits -health. According to a representative of the Ohio Department of Insurance, about a third of employers with more than five hundred employees offer benefits domestic partners, and this number has increased. The numbers are not as common for small-sized companies, however.

self-insured employers are not regulated by the states, but have the ability to offer domestic partner insurance benefits if they choose, regardless of the position of the State on gay marriage. Before eligibility for insurance benefits, same-sex couples should have the documentation of their relationship in the form of leases signed jointly, the bank statements or other legal documents.

According to a Williams Institute study, unmarried partners are two to three times more likely to be uninsured than married people. Gay couples have to pay taxes to the federal state and sometimes on health care benefits because the IRS considers the value of the provision of a domestic partner as income. Therefore, the FSA or HSA pre-tax dollars that employee can not be used to cover the benefits of a domestic partner.

In addition to being innovative, brave, bright, entrepreneurs often find themselves falling in another category - uninsured. Finding health insurance coverage can be a daunting task for independent individuals, especially if certain pre-existing conditions are involved. In 2014, all this will change because of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). But, what is an entrepreneur to do until then to remain covered? Consider these options:

COBRA
If you leave your current job to venture out on your own, COBRA may be a viable solution in the short term. COBRA allows you to continue coverage health insurance that you had under the group plan from your previous employer. The maximum amount of time that you can use is 18 months, which will be more than enough to keep you covered until 2013. Keep in mind, however, that COBRA is not cheap. In some cases, a person can pay up to double their old premium to keep the exact same coverage they had. To help with this, the government provides a subsidy to the premium of 65 percent for newly unemployed people for the first 9 months. After that, you would be responsible for the entire amount.

spouse or Domestic Partner Insurance
Before looking around for an individual health insurance plan, certainly research the possibility of joining your important the plan sponsored by the employer of the other. Not married? Many employers extend coverage to workers who are national partnership. You'll want to know when the open enrollment period for the group plan their business and see if it is the best option to meet your health needs.

Catastrophic Plan
This type of short-term plan is designed to save you the total financial collapse in the unfortunate event that you suffer from a disease or a costly injury. A plan "no frills" that probably will not cover routine medical services such as doctor visits and prescription drugs; catastrophic coverage couples a low monthly premium with a high deductible.

For more information on health insurance options for entrepreneurs, visit GoHealthInsurance.com. You can compare health insurance quotes from coast to coast and even connect with a licensed agent.

Research continues on the rising cost of health insurance premiums and while some say the rate of talk is just speculation, studies show differently.

A study sponsored by the Society of Actuaries (SOA) provides that the costs of medical claims, the main drivers of health insurance premiums are increasing by huge percentages. the first group of analysts of financial risks in the nation provides a jump of 32 percent, to be exact.

While some states will actually see a decrease in costs of medical claims per person, a great majority of States are experiencing double-digit increase on the various health insurance markets. Some 2017 estimates, according to the SOA report are:

• 62 percent increase in California
• increase of 80 percent in Ohio
• increase of 20 percent in Florida
• increase of 67 percent in Maryland

What is responsible for the rising costs, you ask? The study says the costs will increase as individuals most unhealthy and ill join the insurance pool. Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), insurers are facing new rules for gender or age based rates, so that while young people generally paid less in the past will be now required to pay more while older people can pay less. Women historically paid more for insurance will now pay less and equalizes the disparity, men can pay more.

The report however makes no estimates on health plans focused on employers that the new law on health care will primarily affect people who do not receive insurance coverage through their employer .

With the passage of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in 2010 come many changes to individual coverage, many that can affect you. Here is an overview of what the great individual changes to Medicare coming await 2014.

Eligibility for subsidies. Some people participating in the exchange will be eligible for tax credits from the government, or subsidies to help them buy coverage in 2014. US citizens and legal immigrants who earn income by 133 percent to 400 percent of the federal poverty level will be eligible for tax credits.

people who earn more than 400 percent of the federal poverty level will not be eligible. Tax credits will be structured based on income so that the premium of an individual or family must pay does not exceed a certain percentage of his income.

Additional benefits. The ACA expands the options and benefits for private insurance, including women. essential health benefits such as pregnancy and care of the newborn will be covered in all new individual plans, small businesses and exchange. Other preventive services such as mammograms, vision and dental care for children and more will be covered at no cost out-of-pocket.

The ACA also expanded coverage disorder of mental health and addiction. From 2014, the individual and small group plans are required to cover 10 categories of "essential health benefits" including mental health and drug use disorder services.

New plans under the Affordable Care Act should cover examinations, immunizations and other preventive care without paying out-pocket costs like co-pays. All plans will be affected by 2018.

Guaranteed coverage. Insurance companies can not file an individual when he or she gets sick, including children under 19 from 1 January 2014 insurers are prohibited by law from discriminating or load more rate high for people based on gender or any pre-existing medical conditions.

No cap annual spending. annual dollar limits were set at higher amounts until 1 January 2014, when insurers will be prohibited to establish annual expenditure ceilings. Lifetime caps on the amount of insurance payment a person can receive will be banned.

Open registration period. For those who do not receive coverage from the employer, the ACA requires all uninsured consumers purchase coverage in 2014 or face a penalty. People will have the chance to shop for coverage through the new health insurance markets that began in October 1, 2013 and run until March 31, 2014.

Countdown to Open Registration:

[ujicountdown id=”Moxie Vote Countdown” expire=”2013/10/01 00:00″ hide = “true”]

In 2014, the individual mandate, an important provision of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) kicks in, which requires US citizens and legal immigrants to have health coverage. Those who fail to obtain health insurance will face a tax penalty. You may wonder if it is cheaper to buy health insurance now or wait until 2014. Here are some considerations to help make that decision
If you buy now :.

• You'll probably pay lower premiums. The new provisions will be applied within the PEA in 2014 (essential health benefits, assessment of the modified community and issue guarantees) are estimated to cause a jump in health insurance premiums.
• A more personalized coverage. By shopping for insurance now, you can find a less robust plan that includes only the benefits you need, helping cut unnecessary costs. For those who are young and healthy, chances are an insurance plan will cost less.
• The age rating changes may increase or decrease premiums. If a young adult purchases coverage now, they are not subject to classification by age changes created by the reform. For example, in 2014, a person can not be charged more than 3 times a young adult. This will increase the individual premiums for young adults, but in 2014, this will reduce premiums for the elderly

If you wait until 2014 :.

• More reliable options. You know you get a qualified health plan at an affordable price by purchasing insurance directly from the insurance market of the State disease. Customers will be able to compare plans that meet certain requirements benefits.
• essential health benefits. All plans are required to cover "essential health benefits" which include coverage for prescription drugs, maternity care, hospitalization, outpatient care and more.
• guaranteed issue. Beginning in 2014, individuals can be denied coverage from an insurance company because of a preexisting condition, nor can they receive higher rates because of the state of gender or health .
• Tax subsidies. You may be eligible for tax credits if your household income is between 100 to 400 percent of the poverty line.
• Annual limits in dollars. In 2014, the use of annual dollar limits on essential benefits like hospital stays will be banned for new plans in the individual market and all group plans.

Michael Mahoney, GoHealth senior vice president of consumer marketing, gives consumer advice on calculating the subsidy health insurance with Karen E. Klein in Bloomberg Businessweek.

READ MORE

http://www.businessweek.com/articles/2013-06-03/how-to-calculate-eligibility-for-health-insurance-subsidies

With the changes in the reform of health care, young adults will have more coverage options than ever before. Between being able to stay on the health plan of their parents, individual coverage and Medicaid expansion (that states can or can not attend), young adults have many options from 2014 .

1. Men and women now pay the same amount for the cover .

Previously, insurers could charge individuals based on gender. Because they tend to visit the doctor more often, usually paid higher premiums women than men. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) now requires that men and women pay the same amount.

2. The ratio of medical claims requires health insurers to spend at least 80 to 85 percent on medical care.

Under the medical loss ratio (MLR), health insurance issuers must submit data demonstrating the proportion of revenue spent on clinical services and quality improvement . This ensures that companies do not spend a substantial amount of consumer dollars on administrative costs and overhead. Companies that do not meet these standards are required to provide rebates to customers.

3. People with pre-existing conditions can not be refused coverage.

More than 50,000 Americans with preexisting conditions have gained coverage through the new pre-existing condition insurance plan. Under this provision, consumers with pre-existing conditions can not be charged more for insurance, and they can be deposited from a plan in case of illness.

In 2014, health insurers can not deny coverage to people with pre -existing terms -. allowing millions of Americans get coverage on the individual market

4. Young adults can stay on their health plans until age 26.

young adults up to 26 years are now eligible to remain covered by the health insurance plan of a parent, making it easier and more affordable to obtain coverage.

5. Children can not be denied coverage because of pre-existing conditions.

Once the law was passed, this provision kicks little known to provide any child under 19 years warranty coverage. More than 17.6 million children with pre-existing conditions are no longer to worry about being denied coverage. Unfortunately, many health insurers stopped offering coverage as state children not promulgated open enrollment periods for children.

6. Preventive care now available at no charge out-of-pocket.

The ACA ensures that most insurance plans provide coverage and eliminate cost sharing for certain preventive health services, including mammograms for women, film colonoscopy, flu shots and much more. This provision has given 71 million more Americans coverage of preventive services by the Department of Health and Human Services of the United States.

7. essential benefits covered in all health plans with no cap on coverage.

In establishing minimum standards of coverage for health plans, ACA argues that a set of basic benefits are included in the health insurance plans. This includes emergency services, hospitalization, maternity and newborn care, prescription drugs and more.

8. The elderly can not be charged more than three times the amount of a young adult is charged.

Older patients generally use more, and health care higher than younger patients costs. To help ensure that coverage remains affordable for everyone is to use the age of the rating bands that spread the cost of premiums on a range of age groups.

9. luxury tax credits individuals between 100 and 400 percent of the federal poverty level.

In order to reduce monthly premiums for those earning up to 400 percent of the federal poverty level, tax credits are available to cover a share of monthly health premiums charge. Tax credits are structured based on income so that the premium of an individual or family must pay does not exceed a specified percentage of their income.

10. Grants for individuals between 100 and 250 percent of the federal poverty level.

To offset the cost of health care, the ACA created tax subsidies for individuals and families to help pay for health insurance. The cost-sharing subsidies essentially increase the portion of benefits covered by an insurance company, which reduces outside pocket expenses for low-income consumers.

11. Medicaid expansion for adults without children, but each State shall determine whether to expand the program.

Medicaid will be expanded to include more adults. Every state has the opportunity to receive additional federal funding to expand their Medicaid roles to include more families and single adults. While 50 states have chosen to implement the expansion of Medicaid, it would cover an estimated 21.6 million additional non-insured adults.

Michael Mahoney, vice president of consumer marketing at GoHealth speaks to Jim Angle Fox news on new health insurance markets.

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http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2013/09/25/administration-outsourced-health-care-exchanges-to-private-companies/

Students these days have d other than school something to look for - the law on health care. The passage of the Affordable Care Act may have more health care options, but you also need young adults to be more responsible for their health.

The individual mandate in the health law requires everyone (with few exceptions) purchase health coverage in 2014 or face a penalty. October 1 ^st , the open registration date starts fast approaching, so let GoHealth help you consider your options! Our infographic sets out some important dates and figures to know this school season.

President Obama signed a bill early last Thursday after Senate representatives and House finally reached an agreement to end the government shutdown. After learning that the federal government has reopened many Americans left wondering what has changed. After 16 days of negotiations between the Democratic and Republican parties, the answer is not much, except for a small tweak.

The compromise

In the last days of the closure of the Government, the compromise was negotiated by Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) And Minority Leader Mitch McConnell ( R-Ky.). Although no significant changes were made to the Act on the Affordable Care President, the new legislation approved by the House and the Senate includes a minor change to the health care law signed.

The changes to the ACA

Republicans got a slight verification tighter rules for income consumers using the new health insurance exchanges created by the Affordable Care Act . The government will now be required to verify the income of all persons who receive financial aid through grants for premiums and cost sharing to ensure that they are in fact eligible

Democrats are not opposed to this provision. citing it was already largely repeated the language in the law. Sometimes the exchange of federal health already binds to the IRS to verify the eligibility of income.

What's Next

The compromise also created a new budgetary period, requiring lawmakers to reach agreement on a long-term deficit reduction before December 13.

In brief remarks at the White House, President Obama said the development "With the stop behind us and the budget committees forming, we now have the opportunity to focus on a reasonable budget that is responsible, which is just, and that helps people working in the country. "

GoHealth President Brandon Cruz speaks to Dan Mangan CNBC on handling the volume of consumers who seek to register in 2014 the cover of Medicare.

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http://www.cnbc.com/id/101153131

Do not have dental coverage? How would you feel about volunteering your time in exchange for free dental services? For some this may seem like a crazy idea, but in some cities it is actually a reality.

A recent history of Kaiser Health News and USA Today points out some 4,000 volunteers uninsured in Michigan who receive care in the partnership program for dentists Calhoun County. The program, funded by the private sector, requires patients to volunteer in order to gain free dental services. Whether for filling bags to the food bank or helping other nonprofits premises, such as Hi Army and the Red Cross, the program allows low-income or uninsured people of access to free dental care.

From 2014, the Affordable Care Act requires individual plans and small group sold by the exchange based on the state and the private market cover dental services for children. However, some health professionals see a need for volunteer assistance programs such as the federal law on health that extends insurance coverage to millions, does little to improve adult access to dental care. According to a study by the Kaiser Family Foundation, more than 73 percent of low-income adults under 65 lack of dental coverage. The use of dental services has declined significantly since 07.

Patients participating in the volunteer program do not think like get free dental care because they put real working hours. The Calhoun County Dentists the program requires patients to volunteer four hours of care each worth $ 100. To be eligible for the volunteer program, people must lack dental coverage and earn an income below 0 percent of federal poverty level (about $ 24,000 in 2013). Before seeing a dentist, patients are also required to attend a class two hours on oral health and visit with a medical officer for health and dental screening. This limits the actual time spent with dentists.

What do you think of this type of volunteer program? Would you find it possible to spend hours volunteered in exchange for dental care or other services? Let us know below.

During the holiday rush, it's easy to get caught up with festive evenings and Christmas shopping, but true holiday spirit is to give to those in need. For families who are experiencing financial problems or illness, the holidays can not always be bright and cheerful.

Since the holiday season is a time for gratitude and give back this Christmas, GoHealth spreads part of the holiday cheer to families in the community with the campaign Adopt-A-Family of 'Heartland Alliance. Heartland Alliance is the main organization of the fight against poverty in the Midwest and offers gifts and necessities to families in need.

Through the campaign Heartland Alliance GoHealth adopted several families in the Chicago area in an effort to help make holiday dreams come true. Heartland Alliance identified families in need, then the GoHealth employees have a shopping spree with the wish lists of families by hand.

GoHealth employees bought clothes, toys, cleaning supplies, hygiene products and gift certificates for grocery and beautifully packaged items for families. Heartland Alliance delivers the presents in time for the holidays. GoHealth appreciates the work of Heartland Alliance for the coordination of these efforts and creating a wonderful opportunity to make special holiday for local families.

Please join us in thanking Heartland Alliance for their excellent work, and consider supporting their cause with a donation.

Welcome small wins week ! New to the campaign? All the details here .

The food may not always be fine. Yesterday, we challenged our fans on Facebook and Twitter to do the following:

Day 1 Show & tell your favorite meals on the run or meal preparation Quick with the hashtag #GHSmallWins

Here are some of our favorite memories:

Good news for health insurance seekers who have struggled to meet the deadline Obamacare - You can get additional time to register!

the federal government announced a grace period for Americans who have had difficulty in completing their registration by the deadline of 31 March, so if you experienced problems technical or long waiting periods that prevented you from buying Obamacare, you'll probably get a little leeway to supplement your health insurance registration.

All you have to do is attest that you have attempted to register before midnight ET on March 31 and see if you get more time to sign up for a medical health insurance plan majeure. People who enroll in a major medical health plan during the grace period will not face the penalty tax.

If this situation applies to you, you have a short time to complete your application (plan only a few days). But do not delay! Missing this opportunity means you probably will not get the opportunity to ask for tax subsidies and you miss the opportunity to buy a major medical plan that covers pre-existing conditions and preventive care.

If you still need a health plan, GoHealth can guide you through the process and connect with brand, affordable coverage today.

This video is of the event Meetup sold out of GoHealth April 30, 2014. Thanks to all developers who joined us

part: challenges face by a new team in AngularJS

Click here to watch the second part : angular Animation

With a baby on the way, many things must change - your appetite (hello pickle cravings 2 am), your body and your health coverage needs. Between cravings and maternity jeans, you have an important decision to protect your family well-being. It's time to start shopping for health insurance plan right. As you begin this process, here are three things you should know:

1. Having a child gives you a special opportunity to buy health insurance

The Law reform of health care set up a designated period of time during which people can shop for health coverage. If you buy a plan during the open enrollment period, you will receive guaranteed benefits, including maternity care. But what happens if you miss the open enrollment period, which ended March 31, 2014? Good news - for a child qualifies you for a special enrollment period - a short window of time to sign up for health insurance typically sold during open enrollment. You have 60 days from the birth of your child to buy health coverage with guaranteed benefits such as maternity care.

2.You can not be charged more to be pregnant

Remember this long list of questions you had to answer when applying for a health coverage? This has been used by health insurance companies to determine the rate they charge for insurance. Historically, if you are expecting a child, you will be charged more or denied coverage. Under the new law on health care, you can not be denied coverage or charge more if you buy insurance during Open Enrollment or a special enrollment period.

3. You can save money if your doctor is in your network

The health insurance companies negotiate lower rates with a specific network doctors and hospitals to help keep costs down. You can save money on out-of-pocket costs remaining within the network. If there is an OB / GYN or pediatrician you prefer, consider a health plan that includes that doctor in its network. We are here to help you find a plan that lists your favorite doctor in the network and balance your health needs and your budget. To work with a licensed counselor GoHealth free, call us at (888) 322-7557. We are happy to help you.

Back to school can be stressful: packaging, planning, and to say goodbye to loved ones while adjusting to a new life away from home. Let GoHealth make health insurance simple with a guide that answers your questions and develops your options.

The individual mandate under the Affordable Care Act requires that all Americans have health insurance or face a penalty. open enrollment begins on November 15, so now is the time to learn why get health insurance is so important -. And why it could save you money in the long term

With 2014 quickly coming to an end, many of us are beginning to think about how we would like to improve ourselves from the new year.

Each January, about one in three Americans decided to improve in some way. While about 75 percent of people stick to their New Year's resolutions for at least a week, less than half are still on target six months later.

Here are five simple tips to help you actually keep your health resolution New Year this year.

1. Focus on the positive

As you are considering the resolution of your New Year, accentuate the positive rather than the negative. For example, rather than to resolve to lose 20 pounds, your resolution could be, "I want to look better and feel healthier." Putting a positive spin on it, the resolution will feel less as a restriction and more as an opportunity for change.

2. Make realistic goals

Prepare for success by making New Year's resolutions that are achievable. Instead of selecting an ambiguous goal, focus on something more concrete that you can realistically set your sights on.

3. Create a solid plan

The choice of an achievable goal gives you the opportunity to plan exactly how you will accomplish your resolution during the year . If you break your resolution into small, manageable goals with a solid deadline, you will greatly increase your chances of success. While this may seem a slow start, these small steps easier to stick to your new habits and increase long-term chances of success.

4. Get help

Tell your friends and family about your commitment to the resolution of your new year. The more people who know your commitment to change, the more people there will help you if you are late on your goals.

Having a solid support system can also help you stay motivated. Explain your goals for your close friends or family and ask them to help you achieve your goals. Better yet, consider joining a group for people who share your same goals.

5. Reward yourself

Following the New Year's resolution is rarely easy, reward yourself for achieving your smaller goals along the way. Choose healthy rewards, such as new training gear or a relaxing massage, to inspire you to keep up the good work!

Musicians and freelancers, like many other Americans, can have a myriad of health problems. However, they are not always immediate access to the coverage of health insurance they need

There are 53 million Americans -. Nearly 34 percent of the workforce - working as freelancers today. This includes musicians who can rely on their collective agreements for health coverage. Such agreements are available for symphony musicians, theater and film musicians and recording musicians, among others.

secretary-treasurer of the American Federation of Musicians (AFM), Sam Folio

But if you are not one of those lucky people? What if you have no collective agreement for you? What if you have no access to health insurance?

The truth is that many freelancers do not have access to health insurance through collective agreements. As secretary-treasurer of the American Federation of Musicians (AFM), many working musicians call my office every day with questions and concerns about this very topic:

"Do you have a health plan for me "

" I am a member of the AFM for several years. When will I get health coverage? "

" I work six nights a week, but not obtain health coverage. When did that change? "

Fortunately today, the Labour America tries to help these people by acting as a resource for the cover of Medicare. Thanks to America's work on health care, powered by GoHealth, freelancers - including musicians - and their families can learn about reforming health care and connect with affordable health insurance. The platform makes it easy to get plan recommendations and enroll in coverage depending on the specific budgets and health care needs.

As a bonus, individuals and their families will also be eligible Health Advocate to use. This is a custom free service that can help individuals to coordinate their health care needs, understand their coverage, find doctors and specialists, appointment schedule, and even negotiate medical bills.

With the help of the American program of work of health care, backed by GoHealth, these musicians can pursue their creative career while living a safe life and healthy with insurance coverage -maladie secure.

Sam Folio helped this client for GoHealth Blog. Folio is secretary-treasurer of the American Federation of Musicians (AFM), a percussionist and singer, and active member of the music industry since the 1950s

Tomorrow is National Youth Day registration (NYED)! GoHealth is pleased to join this great cause of educating young adults on the importance of obtaining health insurance coverage.

Why NYED significant?

Nearly one in five young adults has no health insurance. These young adults are uninsured at risk for expense expensive health care and medical costs.

Although many young adults still lack health insurance, the uninsured rate is falling faster for 18 to 25 years than for any other age group. We can continue to build on this momentum by spreading the word to young Americans who do not understand their health insurance options.

What can I expect from NYED?

From New York to Texas to California, there will be several events that should draw hundreds of people and high-end entertainment. These events are part of a national campaign to sign youth for new affordable health plans ,.

How can I participate?

There will be hundreds of events across the country tomorrow, January 29. To participate, you can register here or spread the word on social media with the profile photos and hashtags #YoEnroll, #GetCovered and #StayCovered.

still need health insurance or know someone who does? There is still time to hedge. GoHealth can help you compare your health insurance options today. Start here.

February is the Month of the American Heart, which aims to increase awareness of heart disease in the United States to to prevent heart attacks and strokes. While the number of deaths due to heart disease has decreased in recent years, it is still the leading cause of death in the United States. There is good news: Eating healthy can help prevent cardiovascular disease

Here are five foods that you can easily incorporate into your diet to keep your heart healthy

1 ... Salmon

The salmon contains large amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, fatty acids, which lower the risk of arrhythmia and plaque buildup in arteries. In an effort to make the most of this flakey, pink fish, try to eat salmon at least twice a week. If you are not a fan of salmon, you can take omega-3 dietary supplements instead.

2. Oatmeal

Oatmeal is rich in soluable fiber, which acts like a sponge in the digestive tract to absorb and remove cholesterol. Try eating oatmeal old or quick cooking for complete health benefits, instead of oatmeal.

3. Yogurt

yogurt may protect against gum disease, which can increase the risk of a person to heart disease. Experts believe that probiotics in yogurt can help counter the growth of bad bacteria in the mouth, improve digestion and boost immunity.

4. Dark Chocolate

Yes, really chocolate! The daily consumption of dark chocolate can reduce the risk of heart attacks and nonfatal strokes in people at high risk for these health problems. It contains polyphenols, which can help with blood pressure, coagulation, and inflammation.

5. Popcorn

Popcorn is full of polyphenols, which are a type of antioxidant linked to improved heart health. This popular snack three times more polyphenols than beans and four times more than cranberries, which are the sources of fruits and vegetables highest. Popcorn is a whole grain, which, as we all know is an important staple food. People who eat lots of whole grains tend to be thinner and have a lower risk of heart disease than those who did not.