by rmckenzie | Mar 12, 2014 | Anthem, Blue Shield of CA, Covered CA, Health Insurance, Health Net, Individual Benefits, Kaiser, L.A. Care, SHARP |
Federal officials announced last Wednesday that Americans can keep health insurance plans that fail to meet the standards of the Affordable Care Act for another two years. This latest delay allows insurers to renew the old plans as late as October 1, 2016, meaning customers who renew then would be covered for most of 2017. The option will only be available to people who renewed plans at the end of 2013. New subscribers will not be able to enroll in these plans. Those who are satisfied with their current coverage may take comfort in knowing they can put off shopping for health insurance for a few more years however, this does not necessarily mean that they will be getting a better “deal”. The old policies were canceled initially because they didn’t meet the higher standards set by the health reform law, which requires that all plans cover maternity care, prescription drugs and mental health, among other benefits. Many people who decide to keep their old plans may find out that they would have to pay higher rates to keep the same coverage. Even if rates are unchanged, some subscribers may find they need better coverage, since the plans being extended may not cover hospital stays, prescription drugs or other services. Having an educated broker to turn to for guidance in these changing times is proving to be a more valuable commodity than ever. Contact Bedrosian & Associates if you would like a free review of your current medical insurance plan versus the medical insurance plans...
by rmckenzie | Feb 28, 2014 | Anthem, Blue Shield of CA, Covered CA, Group Benefits, Health Insurance, Health Net, Kaiser, L.A. Care, SHARP |
If you have a new health insurance plan or insurance policy beginning January 1, 2014 or after the following preventive services must be covered without your having to pay a copayment or co-insurance or meet your deductible. This applies only when these services are delivered by a network provider. When making an appointment with your provider for preventive services, it is always good practice to tell them that your visit will be for preventive services as outlined in your health plan. 15 Covered Preventive Services for Adults Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm one-time screening for men of specified ages who have ever smoked Alcohol Misuse screening and counseling Aspirin use for men and women of certain ages Blood Pressure screening for all adults Cholesterol screening for adults of certain ages or at higher risk Colorectal Cancer screening for adults over 50 Depression screening for adults Type 2 Diabetes screening for adults with high blood pressure Diet counseling for adults at higher risk for chronic disease HIV screening for all adults at higher risk Immunization vaccines for adults–doses, recommended ages, and recommended populations vary: Hepatitis A Hepatitis B Herpes Zoster Human Papillomavirus Influenza (Flu Shot) Measles, Mumps, Rubella Meningococcal Pneumococcal Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis Varicella Learn more about immunizations and see the latest vaccine schedules. Obesity screening and counseling for all adults Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) prevention counseling for adults at higher risk Tobacco Use screening for all adults and cessation interventions for tobacco users Syphilis screening for all adults at higher risk 22 Covered Preventive Services for Women, Including Pregnant Women Anemia screening on a routine basis for...
