Health Insurance Sitemap - Page 6
Save Money on Prescriptions - Cost Saving Tips on Prescriptions
Prescription drugs can be expensive, but there are ways that you can minimize the cost and save money. Find out how to ave money on prescriptions, including what to do if you don't have prescription drug coverage.
Save On Drugs - Government Programs to Save On Drugs
You can save on the cost of your medications by exploring federal and state government programs. Whether or not you have health insurance with drug coverage, these programs may help you save money.
Saving Money on Health Care
Health care, including health insurance, can be very expensive. Learn ways to save money on health insurance, and if you do not have health insurance read about ways that you can save money on healthcare for you and your family.
Saving Money on Health Care Costs
Health care, including health insurance, can be very expensive. Learn ways to save money on health insurance, and if you do not have health insurance read about ways that you can save money on healthcare for you and your family.
Scans Don't Always Give Full Picture
The New York Times recently featured an article about the tenuous link between pain and abnormalities found on medical scans like MRIs and CTs. A study shows
School Systems Struggle to Pay Benefits For Retiring Teachers
Although teachers' salaries are not particularly generous, their retirement benefits have been. This may all change, as school systems struggle to pay for
Sebelius Confirmed as New Secretary Of Health & Human Services
Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius was confirmed yesterday as the new Secretary of Health & Human Services. In her new role, she will oversee the Medicare and
Self-funded plan - Health Insurance - What is a self-funded health plan
Learn about self-funded health plans and how they differ from fully insured plans
Sen. Clinton Announces Health Plan For 2008 Campaign
In a press conference yesterday, presidential candidate Hillary Clinton discussed her plans for healthcare reform. According to USAToday, her plan is more
Senate Approves Children's Health Insurance Legislation
The Senate recently approved a bill that will expand the State Children's Health Insurance Program to cover more children and pregnant women. Similar
Senate Bill Would Allow Importation of Prescriptions From Canada
The Senate passed a bill this week that would allow people with prescriptions for FDA-approved drugs to bring the medications with them from Canada into the
Senate Committee Approves Bill Overriding State Health Insurance Regulation
The Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pension Committees approved a bill that lifts certain restrictions over the way health insurance can be sold around the
Senate Committee Approves Health Secretary Nominee
The Washington Times reports that the Senate Finance Committee voted to approve Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius as the new Secretary of Health and Human
Senate Finds Way To Keep Down Cost of Reform
The Senate has been working on ways to make their health reform bill more cost-effective. This week, they announced that they have reached a consensus on
Senate Modifies Association Health Plan Bill To Encourage Passage
Earlier this year, association health plans were all over the news, as Senator Enzi (R-Wyoming) worked to win approval for his bill authorizing small businesses
Senate Not Yet Ready For Small Business Insurance Legislation
The Senate Finance Committee held a hearing yesterday to discuss how to improve access to affordable health care for small businesses and their employees, but
Senate Proposes Legislation Requiring Health Insurance Premium Disclosure
Senate Proposes Legislation Requiring Health Insurance Premium Disclosure
Senate Proposes Legislation Requiring Health Insurance Premium Disclosure
The Senate proposed legislation that would require employers to disclose the amount of money they spend on premiums for job-based health plans. According to
Senate Votes Down Attempt to Limit Health Coverage
Senate Votes Down Attempt to Limit Health Coverage
Senator Barack Obama's Healthcare Reform Proposal
Senator Obama has a three-point plan for comprehensive healthcare reform. Read on to find out what he is likely to do if elected president.
Senator Baucus Moves Forward With Health Plan
Senator Baucus is not waiting for President-elect Obama to proceed with plans to reform the U.S. health care system. According to the New York Times, Baucus is
Senator Clinton Dives Back Into Health Care Issues
12 years ago, First Lady Hillary Rodham Clinton and President Bill Clinton proposed a health care system that would provide access to coverage for all
Senator Daschle's Withdraws From Consideration
Senator Tom Daschle recently hit a snag in his confirmation process for the position of Secretary of Health and Human Services. He recently amended tax returns
Senator Hillary Clinton’s Health Care Reform Proposal - 2008 Clinton Presidential Campaign Health Reform
Information about 2008 Presidential candidate Hillary Clinton's proposal for health care reform
Senator John McCain's Health Care Reform Proposal
Senator John McCain bases his health care reform proposal on three guiding principles. Read on to find out more about what he is likely to do if elected
Senator John McCain's Health Care Reform Proposal - 2008 McCain Presidential Campaign Health Reform
Information about 2008 Presidential candidate John McCain's proposal for health care reform
Senator Kennedy Starts Working on Health Reform
The Boston Globe reports that Senator Kennedy has started working on a universal health coverage initiative that he hopes will have bipartisan support.
Send Your Dad a "Health-e-Card" from the CDC
Forget the annual tie or new tools for the BBQ grille! Instead send your dad the best gift of all - a reminder to stay healthy. The Centers for Disease
Seniors Fall Prey To Aggressive Medicare Advantage Sales Tactics
The New York Times recently featured an article about the aggressive marketing of Medicare Advantage plans to senior citizens, some of whom had no idea their
Seniors Get More Out of Medicare Than They Contributed While Employed
Medicare taxes have been raised at least 25 times since the program began in the 60’s, which means that people who are seniors today contributed less to the
Seniors Should Consider All Plan Options During Part D Open Enrollment
Open enrollment for the 2007 Part D plan year is rapidly approaching. Beneficiaries can either choose to stay with their current plan or select a new one to
Shame on Dr. Jack Cassell!
Dr. Jack Cassell, a urologist who practices outside of Orlando posted a controversial sign on his office window: If you voted for Obama, seek urologic care
Share Your Medication Saving Tips with Dr. Mike
Since I started as the About.com health insurance guide, I have written about how you can save money on your prescription drugs. In fact, I even created a
Share Your Story: Dealing with Health Insurance Problems
No health insurance? Share your story and tell us about how you are managing your family’s health care needs and what you might have learned that could help others.
Share Your Thoughts On Pre-existing Conditions
Many Americans with pre-existing conditions have trouble getting the care they need, either because they can't obtain health insurance coverage, or because
She’s Counting the Days to Medicare!
A close friend of mine is counting the days until she is eligible for Medicare. She turns 65 on April 17, 2010 and becomes eligible for Medicare on April 1. If
Shifting Drug Costs To Employees Not Cost-Effective Solution
A recent study conducted by Carnegie Mellon University confirms suspicions that shifting prescription drug costs onto employees does not significantly reduce
Short Term Disability Insurance – What You Need to Know About Short Term Disability Insurance
Short term disability insurance pays a percentage of your salary if you become temporarily disabled, which means that you are not able to work for a short period of time due to sickness or injury not related to your job.
Short-Term Health Insurance
Learn more about short-term health insurance, a low-cost option for people who are temporarily without health insurance coverage.
Short-Term Health Insurance
Learn more about short-term health insurance, a low-cost option for people who are temporarily without health insurance coverage.
Should Congress Repeal the Affordable Care Act?
With the midterm elections over (thankfully, so I can stop hearing all the hateful ads), what impact do you think the Republican victories will have on
Single-Payer Advocates Rally Outside Health Insurance Convention
The San Jose Mercury News reports that over 1,000 picketers rallied outside a conference organized by America's Health Insurance Plans, an industry industry
Skimping on Drug Benefits Turns Out To Be Costly
A recent study shows that employers looking to save money by reducing or limiting employee drug benefits may actually end up spending more in reduced worker
Sleep Deprivation and Disorders Linked to Health Problems
The Institute of Medicine released a new report which connects sleep disorders to serious health problems, including high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity,
Small Business Health Legislation Resurrected
According to CNN.com, Senator Enzi (R-Wy.) has announced his intentions to reintroduce legislation this year which would allow small businesses to purchase
Small Business Health Tax Credit - FAQs About the Small Business Health Tax Credit
If you are a small employer that provides health care coverage to your employees and meet certain requirements you may qualify for a federal income tax credit for health insurance premiums you pay for specific employees. This provision is effective with tax years beginning in 2010.
Small Business Plays Crucial Role in Healthcare Reform
Small businesses have difficulty affording the cost of coverage for their employees and dependents. Many of their employees go without coverage. In fact,
Small Doctor's Offices and Solo Practitioners Struggle To Afford Health IT
While large provider networks have already begun enjoying the benefits of Health Information Technology, smaller offices and solo practitioners often cannot
Smart Healthcare Shopping A Real Challenge
The Philadelphia Inquirer reports that even well-known health economists find it extremely difficult to obtain healthcare pricing information from hospitals -
Some Companies Motivate With the Stick Rather Than the Carrot
Some companies are encouraging employees to take control of their health by using financial incentives - and disincentives. The Washington Post reports that
Some Doctors Still Make House Calls
There is a growing number of doctors in the U.S. who make house calls to elderly and disabled patients. Patients with limited mobility often end up in the
Some Employers Seek Relief From High Insurance Costs Outside the Law
The Denver Business Journal reports that some employers are finding unusual - and sometimes illegal - solutions to rising health care costs. One Denver small
Some Good News - State Programs Help Kids Stay Insured
Although the number of uninsured Americans has been on the rise, the number of uninsured American children has been decreasing. This article discusses how
Some Hospitals Offer Free Preventive Care To Uninsured
Some hospitals, recently featured in The New York Times, havebegun offering free preventive care to uninsured patients in order to reduce their need more
Some Insurers Cover Online Doctor Visits
Online doctor visits are a growing trend - and insurers are lining up to cover this new type of medical service. According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, some
Some Insurers Encourage Pill-Splitting
Some of the nation's largest health insurers, including UnitedHealth Group, Kaiser Permanente, and the Veterans Affairs Department, are encouraging their
Some Part D Plans Fail To Notify Enrollees of Changes
Government officials report that some Part D plans failed to send enrollees the required “Annual Notice of Change” documents describing how costs and benefits
Some States Allow Young Adults To Remain On Their Parents' Insurance Longer
Did you know that 18 to 24-year-olds make up the largest growing population of uninsured individuals? Many young adults lose their insurance coverage when they
Some Uninsured Patients Use False Identities To Get Care
In a recent article on Philly.com, an uninsured patient describes using a false identity in order to receive emergency care for a heart condition. Officials
Sometimes, You Just Have To Ask
A recent survey by HealthMarkets, Inc. shows that 55% of respondents were able to reduce the cost of their doctor's visit by simply asking the doctor to reduce
South Carolina Health Insurance - Information on South Carolina Health Insurance
Contact information for state offices and resources for obtaining and keeping health insurance in South Carolina
South Dakota - Health Insurance - South Dakota Health Insurance Information
Contact information for state offices and resources for obtaining and keeping health insurance in South Dakota.
Special Discount Drug Program Actually Costs More
The Denver Post recently found that the Colorado Cares Rx Program does not always provide the lowest price on prescriptions, despite years of legislative
Special Interests Want To Shape Reform
Special interest groups are going to great lengths for the chance to participate in health reform. According to the Associated Press, the pharmaceutical
Splitting Pills Can Save You Money in the Coming Year
Splitting pills has become a popular way for people to save money on some prescription medications. Splitting pills can save you money because drug
Spouse’s Health Insurance – Switch to Your Spouse’s Health Insurance to Save Money During Open Enrollment
At your company's open enrollment time, look at the various plan options your employer offers. If you and your spouse or partner are both eligible for employee health benefits, check out each company's health insurance options to see which may cost you less. You may be able to save money by switching to your spouse's health coverage.
Springfield, MA Discontinues Canadian Drug Importation Program
The City of Springfield, Massachusetts is planning to discontinue the Canadian drug important program it instituted in 2003 for city employees and retirees.
State Health Insurance
Most health insurance plans are regulated by your state government. Since the states differ considerably in the rules they set for health plans – such as mandating certain benefits – and the types of state health insurance programs offered, it is important that you understand what is unique about your state.
State Medicaid Program Enrollment Increases
The economic downturn has forced many Americans to turn to Medicaid as a safety net for health coverage. According to the New York Times, in many states
State Mental Health Benefits Information Updated
The National Conference of State Legislatures has recently updated their list of state legislation that affects coverage of mental health conditions. This
State-Specific Health Insurance Information
State-specific information for all 50 states, including contact information for state offices and insurance programs.
State-Specific Information
If you are looking for contact information for health insurance resources available in your state, be sure to check my state-specific information page. This
States Act on Their Own To Improve Health Coverage
States are getting fed up with waiting for the federal government to act to reduce the number of uninsured Americans and improve health care coverage. Over a
States Allow Children To Remain on Parents' Insurance Longer
Since young adults are more likely to be uninsured than any other age group, states have been acting to help keep them covered by allowing them to remain on
States Expand SCHIP Program
States are working to expand SCHIP coverage to include more children and their families, according to the Long Island Newsday. SCHIP is the State Children's
States Look To Pass "Wal-Mart" Bill
Legislators in 30 different states are promoting legislation that would require large corporations to contribute more money to their employees' health insurance
States Protest SCHIP Rules
Eight states have publicly announced their opposition to federal rules which restrict who has access to coverage under SCHIP, the State Children's Health
States Work To Make Hospital Pricing More Transparent
Several states, including New Hampshire, Oregon, and Massachusetts, are working to make hospital pricing more transparent and easier for consumers to
States and Feds Working At Cross Purposes
While state governments around the country are working hard to develop innovative ways for health coverage to reach uninsured populations, the federal
States step in where Medicare Part D fails
Although some Medicare beneficiaries have experienced problems getting their medication through Part D, several states, including California, Illinois, and
Stay In the Home You Love – Learn About PACE!
PACE - the Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly - is a special Medicare program for adults over age 55 living with disabilities. PACE was created
Stop Worrying About the Cost of Health Reform and Worry Instead About the Cost of Diabetes and Obesity!
Yesterday, while returning home from a trip to Maine, my wife and I stopped at a well-known diner that has been featured on the Food Network. After waiting
Structuring Health Reform - New Office of Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight
With little fanfare - other than an announcement in the Federal Register - the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) set up an Office of
Student Health Insurance - How to Find Student Health Insurance
Going to college is one of the most important things you can do to secure your financial future. But what happens if you get sick or injured while you're there? Accidents and sudden illness can happen to anyone at any time. So it's important to make sure you have health insurance coverage.
Study Says State Medicaid Programs Are Faring Poorly
Although state Medicaid programs vary widely from state to state, even the very best garners a barely passing grade of D-, according to the Public Citizen's
Study Shows Many Americans Don't Speak the Language of Health Insurance
A recent study conducted by eHealth found that even though media coverage of health coverage issues is increasing, many Americans still don't understand basic
Study Shows That Cost of Job-Based Coverage Continues To Rise
The San Diego Union Tribune reports that employers are facing a 10%-12% increase in the cost of providing insurance coverage to employees in 2007. This
Study Shows That Some Forgo Medically Necessary Care Under Consumer-Driven Plans
A Rand Corp. study shows that while some people save money using consumer-driven health plans, patients with this type of health coverage are more likely to
Study Shows that Medicare Part D Plans Limit Access To Broad Range of Drugs
An independent study conducted by Avalere Health shows that low-income Californians have access to fewer drugs now under the Medicare Part D drug benefit than
Subsidies Will Not Significantly Reduce Number of Uninsured
A recent study by Rand shows that even if subsidies were available which reduced the cost of health insurance by 50%, the rate of insurance in the U.S. would
Supplemental Insurance – What Is Supplemental Insurance?
Supplemental insurance is extra or additional insurance that you can purchase to help you pay for services and out-of-pocket expenses that your regular insurance does not cover. Aside from Medigap policies, three other types of supplemental health insurance are widely sold in the U.S.
Supreme Court Ruling Helps Consumers With Job-Based Plans...A Little
A recent Supreme Court ruling has lowered the standard employees must meet when suing their employee health benefits plan. According to the New York Times,
Surprisingly High Percentage of Americans Don't Take Their Medicine
According to the USA Today, as many as 50% of Americans with chronic illnesses fail to take their prescribed medication as directed. There are many reasons for
T - Definitions of Health InsuranceTerms
Taking Drastic Measures For Health Insurance
A new study commissioned by the Kaiser Family Foundation notes that an increasing number of Americans are deciding to tie the knot so that they can receive
Talking About Health Care
In response to Health & Human Services Secretary-designate Tom Daschle's call to action, Americans have started having conversations about health care and
Tax on Job-Based Coverage May Help Pay For Uninsured
Congress is working on a proposal to tax expensive job-based health insurance coverage, and use the revenue to help pay for care for the uninsured. According
Telemedicine Shows Great Promise
The Kansas City Star recently published an article about the bright future of telemedicine in the U.S. Telemedicine would allow patients to be
Tennessee - Health Insurance - Tennessee Health Insurance Information
Contact information for state offices and resources for obtaining and keeping health insurance in Tennessee
Tennessee Plan For Poor and Disabled May Be Too Expensive
Tennessee has developed a new insurance option for uninsured individuals with illnesses or disabilities - but there is a catch. According to the Nashville
Texas - Health Insurance - Texas Health Insurance Information
Contact information for state offices and resources for obtaining and keeping health insurance in Texas
Texas Legislator Unfamiliar With Medicaid
Texas State Representative Gary Elkins was recently participating in a state budget hearing when he interrupted the discussion to ask,
Thanksgiving Leftovers Done? Focus on Your Medicare Choices for 2011.
Now that the Thanksgiving leftovers are gone and you've recovered from the
The COBRA Subsidy in Action
Under the new economic stimulus act, laid off workers are eligible for a COBRA subsidy that will pay 65% of their premiums. Have you been able to take
The Cost of Care
Many Americans are feeling the pain of rising health costs. A recent poll conducted by the Kaiser Family Foundation shows that over half of all American
The Feds Giveth and the Feds Taketh!
It's official; I am now both a beneficiary and a
The Future of Nursing, A New Initiative
Given the serious shortage of primary care physicians in the U.S. (which most likely will get worse as the Accountable Care Act is fully implemented), I
The Good, The Bad, The Ugly, and The Venomous
Eight weeks ago, President Obama signed into law the Affordable Care Act that is intended to reform the American healthcare system. Although controversial
The Health Care Crunch
USAToday has published a series of articles about health insurance called The Health Care Crunch. Read the articles to learn about some ways in which our
The High Cost of End-Of-Life Care
Some Americans are finding that end-of-life care comes with an exorbitant price tag. In some cases, treatments which have not been proven to extend life, or
The Placebo Effect and Drug Costs
A recent study by behavioral economists at Duke University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology shows that people are more likely to feel better if
The Plight of the Uninsured
A recent study shows that people who do not have health insurance often fail to get urgently needed treatment following emergency room visits. These uninsured
The Reality of HSA's
While in theory, Health Savings Accounts sound like a good way to reduce health care costs by forcing consumers to become better shoppers, the reality is that
The Role of Preventive Care in Health Reform
A recent article in the Wall Street Journal explores preventive care and its effect on health costs. A 2008 study in the New England Journal of Medicine showed
The Secret To Health Reform Success
A recent Congressional Budget Office report points to the role of private insurers as a key factor in the success of healthcare reform efforts. According to
The Secretary Answers Your Questions - This Week: Affordability of Health Insurance
Last month I met with Kathleen Sebelius, Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services. She is responsible for the implementation of many of the
The Secretary Answers Your Questions - This Week: Preventive Services
Last month I met with Kathleen Sebelius, Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services. She is responsible for the implementation of many of the
The Secretary Answers Your Questions - This Week: Small Business Issues
Last June I met with Kathleen Sebelius, Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). She is responsible for the implementation of many of
The Secretary Answers Your Questions – This Week: Cost of Insurance
Last month I met with Kathleen Sebelius, Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services. She is responsible for the implementation of many of the
The Secretary Answers Your Questions – This Week: High-Risk Pools
Last month I met with Kathleen Sebelius, Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services. She is responsible for the implementation of many of the
The Secretary Answers Your Questions – This Week: Medicare
Last month I met with Kathleen Sebelius, Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services. She is responsible for the implementation of many of the
The Swiss Health Care System Vs. The U.S. Health Care System
This article compares our health care system with that of Switzerland. All Swiss citizens are required by law to purchase their own health insurance. Their
The Tea Party and Health Reform - What Do You Think?
With the midterm elections less than four weeks away what impact do you think the Tea Party victories in the primaries will have on healthcare reform? In
The Voters Have Spoken!
In a clear repudiation of the current administration's policies, the American public has sent a clear message to Washington. How the changes in Congress
Therapeutic Equivalents
Learn the meaning of the term “Therapeutic Equivalents” from your About.com Guide to Health Insurance.
Thompson Takes Aim at Entitlements
Republican Presidential candidate Fred Thompson is taking aim at entitlement programs like Social Security and Medicare, telling voters that the reality is that
Thousands of Medicare Beneficiaries Discover a Gap In Part D Coverage
Many Medicare Part D enrollees are just now discovering that there is a gap in their prescription drug coverage. Estimates show that 3 to 3.5 million Americans
Tiered Formulary
Learn the meaning of the term “Tiered Formulary” from your About.com Guide to Health Insurance.
Time Running Out For California
California's state legislative session is scheduled to end in September, but officials are newhere near reaching an agreement on proposed healthcare reform
Timelines for Medicare and Medicaid
The Kaiser Family Foundation has created new interactive timelines which show how Medicare and Medicaid have developed since the programs began in 1965. It's a
Tips For Choosing the Best Job-Based Health Plan
MSN MoneyCentral has published a new resource with 9 tips to help you choose the right job-based health coverage plan. The key is to educate yourself about all
Top 100 Health Care Blogs
RNcentral.com has recently compiled a list of the
Top 5 Health Trends for 2010-2019
During the past decade (2000 through 2009) there has been tremendous progress in medical care in the United States and around the world. Our research and technology continues to improve the quality of care and quality of life for people with chronic illness. The coming decade (2010-2019) should bring more advances but also limited access to primary care and a population burdened with obesity and diabetes.
Toyota Builds Onsite Health Clinic To Combat Rising Health Costs
While most people know that American carmakers like GM, Ford, and Chrysler are in financial crisis due to employee health costs, you may not be aware that
Travel Health Insurance - Do I Need Travel Health Insurance
Travel Health Insurance is a special policy designed to cover your medical expenses if you get sick or injured on a trip. It covers you for only a limited time, and is usually purchased to cover people on foreign trips. Whether or not you need travel health insurance depends on how likely you think it is that you might need medical care during your trip, and on your ability to pay for it if the need arises.
Travel with Medications - How to Travel With Medications
If you plan to travel to a foreign country, it is important that you provide for your medication needs before leaving. An illness in the middle of your trip can ruin your vacation and cost you money to get needed medications.
Trends - Access to Employer-Sponsored Coverage
People living in Western states are more likely to have access to health benefits through their employers, according to an article in the San Francisco
Trends - Small Employers Offering Incentives to Forgo Insurance Coverage
There is an interesting article in the Christian Science Monitor which states that some small businesses are trying to limit their operating costs by
Trends: Physicians Charging "Uncovered Service" Fees
According to this article in the Washington Post, an increasing number of doctors are charging annual
Tune In: Dr. Mike Asks Your Questions at the White House Today
Today at 3:15pm ET, I'll be at the White House talking to Kathleen Sebelius, Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services. I'll be asking her YOUR
Tutorial on Private Health Insurance
The Kaiser Family Foundation has produced a multimedia slide tutorial about private health insurance. This tutorial is narrated by Karen Pollitz, a health
Two Year Waiting Period For Medicare Disability Benefits
Although Medicare does provide benefits for Social Security disability recipients, most people are unaware that the program imposes a two-year waiting period
U - Definitions of Health InsuranceTerms
U of Michigan Diabetes Drug Program Seeks to Promote Preventative Care
The University of Michigan is trying to prove that spending on preventative care will actually save money in the long run. They have established a two-year
U.S. Health Care Outcomes Compare Unfavorably To Other Industrialized Countries
A recent Commonwealth Fund study shows that the U.S. health care system compares unfavorably to that of other industrialized countries. According to the
U.S. News & World Report - America's Best Health Plans 2006
Each year, U.S. News & World Report reviews commercial, Medicare, and Medicaid plans for access to care, preventive benefits, quality of treatment, and customer
US News & World Report Releases Best Health Plans
The US News & World Report recently released their list of America's Best Health Plans. This list has been divided according between commercial, Medicare, and
Uncle Sam Wants You To Shop For Hospital Care
The USAToday reports that many public and private entities have launched rating systems for doctors and hospitals - and the federal government wants you to use
Understanding Managed Care
Most Americans with health insurance receive their health care from a managed care plan such as a PPO or HMO. Read about how these plans work and what you need to do to make sure you get the best possible health care without any hassles.
Understanding Medicare
Medicare is a federal government program that provides health insurance for people age 65 and older, people under age 65 with certain disabilities, and people with permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant. Medicaid is a joint program of the federal and state governments to provide health coverage to the poor and people with disabilities.
Underwriting - Definition of the Term Underwriting
Find out more about what underwriting is and how it is used.
Uninsured - Managing Without Health Insurance
No health insurance? Share your story and tell us about how you are managing your family’s health care needs and what you might have learned that could help others.
Uninsured Children Often Have Insured Parents
A new study in the Journal of the American Medical Association shows that many uninsured children have parents who have access to health coverage through their
Uninsured More Likely To Skip Necessary Medical Care
A nationwide state-by-state analysis by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation reveals that uninsured adults are more likely to skip preventative screening tests
Uninsured Pay More Than Feds For Prescription Drugs
The Maryland Public Interest Research Institute conducted a study showing that Baltimore residents pay almost 62% more for their prescription drugs than the
Uninsured Seek Free Medical and Dental Care From Volunteers
Remote Area Medical (RAM) is a group of volunteers who provide free medical and dental care to the needy. RAM travels around the world, providing care to third
Uninsured Trauma Patients Less Likely to Survive
A recent study shows that patients without insurance are less likely to survive a trauma than patients with insurance. According to Medpage Today, uninsured
Uninsured at Higher Risk in Hospital
It has been well documented that Americans who do not have health insurance or are enrolled in the Medicaid program may have problems accessing quality
United HealthGroup to Launch Pilot Program Deducting Medical Costs From Patient's Paychecks
Beginning in April, United HealthGroup will launch a pilot program called OnePay that will deduct deductibles, copays, premiums, and other out-of-pocket health
UnitedHealthcare Settles Over Disputed Claims
According to Modern Healthcare Online, UnitedHealthcare will pay up to $12 million to 37 states under the terms of a settlement agreement. These states have
Universal Coverage - What Is Universal Coverage
If you are following the healthcare reform efforts here in the U.S., you may want to learn more about universal coverage and what it will mean for you and your family. Find out more about universal coverage.
Universal Coverage vs. Single Payer - What's the Difference?
Learn more about universal coverage and single-payer systems, important health care reform concepts
Updated Resource - Claims Disputes
The Kaiser Family Foundation has just released the 2005 update of their Consumer Guide to Handling Disputes with Your Employer or Private Health Plan. This
Use of Medical Imaging Growing Fast
According to the Baltimore Sun, the use of medical imaging in patient care is increasing dramatically, growing by an estimated 20% each year. No other
Using Credit Cards For Health Costs Drives Consumers Into Debt
Medical debt is often difficult to distinguish from other types of debt. This is particularly true when families rely on credit cards to pay for out-of-pocket
Utah - Health Insurance - Utah Health Insurance Information
Contact information for state offices and resources for obtaining and keeping health insurance in Utah.
V - Definitions of Health InsuranceTerms
VA Care Rated Higher Than Private Hospital Care
There was a time when the Veterans Administration was ridiculed for the inefficient and mediocre health care it offered. But times have changed. Veterans are
Value of Provider Rating Data Unclear
Although consumers are receiving more information about the performance of hospitals and physicians, this increase in data flow is not necessarily encouraging
Vermont Health Insurance Information - Learn About Vermont Health Insurance Information
Contact information for state offices and resources for obtaining and keeping health insurance in Vermont.
Veterans Unaware of Health Coverage Eligibility
According to the USA Today, many veterans are not aware that they are eligible for government benefits, including health coverage. Although veterans receive
Veterans' Drug Program Cheaper than Medicare Part D
According to this article, people who get their prescription drugs covered through the Department of Veterans Affairs enjoy a better benefit than that offered
Virginia Health Insurance - Virginia Health Insurance Information
Contact information for state offices and resources for obtaining and keeping health insurance in Virginia
Voters Choose Obama
The results are in, and voters have chosen Barack Obama to be our next President. Exit polls show that health care was a factor in their decisionmaking
W - Definitions of Health InsuranceTerms
Wal-Mart Announces $1B In Savings On Generics
Wal-Mart estimates that its customers have saved $1 billion since their $4 discount generic drug program was launched in 2006. According to the Sacramento
Wal-Mart Enters Health IT Marketplace
The New York Times reports that Wal-Mart is planning to enter the health IT marketplace by creating a low-cost system for doctors interested in digitizing
Wal-Mart Expands Employee Health Coverage
Wal-Mart has been facing increased pressure - including legislation either passed or pending in several states - to spend more money on employee health care
Wal-Mart Improves Employee Coverage
In recent years, Wal-Mart has been under scrutiny for the relatively
Wal-Mart Memo Suggest Ways To Cut Employee Benefit Costs
Ever wanted to know what your employer is thinking when determining what kinds of employee benefits to offer? Well, if you work for Wal-Mart, now you know. Of
Wal-Mart New Hires To Pay More Out-of-Pocket
The Chicago Sun-Times reports that Wal-Mart will discontinue offering traditional health insurance coverage to new hires. Current employees may remain on their
Wal-Mart Offers More Discounted Drugs
The Associated Press reports that Wal-Mart is planning to offer a 90-day supply of certain generic drugs for $10. This will help consumers save even more money
Want to Reduce Health Care Costs? Lose Weight!
Health care costs continue to grow along with the nation's waistline. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 72.5
Want to Save $7 Billion? Standardize Insurance Claim Forms!
Simplifying health insurance claim forms and health plan payment rules could save the U.S. healthcare system $7 billion annually, according to a study in
Want to Save Money? Stay Healthy!
Dr. Mike's Monthly Health Tips for December 2010. With health insurance premiums climbing along with annual deductibles, you can save money by staying
Washington Health Insurance - Information on Washington Health Insurance
Contact information for state offices and resources for obtaining and keeping health insurance in Washington
Washington Post Reviews Online Insurance Tools
The Washington Post has recently published a series of articles containing links to online resources to help consumers choose health plans. This information is
Watch your MOOP! Significant Changes Coming to Medicare Advantage Plans
On January 1, I will lose my Medicare Advantage Plan along with about half of the 11 million seniors enrolled in such plans. My Medicare Advantage Plan
We Must Stop Bullying!
Although this topic is not directly related to health insurance or health reform, I decided to put on my child advocate's hat. As an American and as a
Weaknesses in Federal Agency Data Security Endanger Patient Privacy
A recent article in the San Francisco Chronicle reports that there are security weaknesses in the computer system used by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid
Wealthier Seniors Pay Under New Medicare Proposal
The Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Resources recently announced a plan to contain costs in a Medicare program that is starting to dominate the
Wealthier Seniors To Pay More For Medicare Part B Coverage
In addition to creating the new Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit, the Medicare Modernization Act of 2003 also included a provision to raise Part B
Welcome to Health Insurance at About.com
The About.com Health Insurance site provides in-depth information and resources about health insurance and changes in our healthcare system that affect the cost of your healthcare.
WellPoint Adopts Electronic Medical Records
WellPoint, the nation's largest health insurer, has announced that they will begin maintaining online health records for their customers. Patients interested
West Virginia Health Insurance - Information on West Virginia Health Insurance
Contact information for state offices and resources for obtaining and keeping health insurance in West Virginia
West Virginia Moves Toward Universal Health Coverage
The West Virginia legislature made some incremental steps towards developing a universal health coverage plan in their state, but is wary of taking that last,
What Causes Dramatic Increases in Drug Prices?
According to this article in the NY Times, supply and demand may have more of an impact on drug prices than most Americans feel comfortable with. Instead of
What Do You Think Is a Must-Have for Healthcare Reform?
Congress is in the process of trying to resolve the differences between the Senate and House versions of the healthcare reform bills. In an interesting
What Features Should a Healthcare Reform Plan Include?
Our nation's leaders have been busy working toward healthcare reform this year. Some of the plans focus more on containing costs, while other focus on covering
What Problems Have You Encountered When Buying Health Insurance?
Have you ever bought, or attempted to buy, an individual health insurance policy? Did you encounter any problems along the way, such as being rejected by the
What is a "Discretionary" Health Expense?
With consumer driven health plans like HSAs becoming more popular, consumers need more guidance in determining which medical expenditures are necessary and
What is creditable coverage?
If you have a preexisting health condition and are looking for new health coverage, you may be wondering if there is any way to avoid waiting through a
What is the "rationing" of health care?
Find out what rationing of health care means, both in the U.S. and abroad.
What is the Average Cost for Health Insurance?
Figuring out the average health insurance premium is a tricky business because there are so many factors which influence price. Read more to find out about how
What is the Medicare Part D Coverage Gap, or Donut Hole?
As open enrollment for 2007 Part D plans approaches, it is important to understand how the coverage gap, or
When Given A Choice, Americans Prefer Traditional Over Consumer-Driven Health Plans
While enrollment in consumer-driven health plans has increased in 2006, a recent study shows that 39% of workers covered under HSAs and consumer-driven plans
When Your Health AND Your Job Are In Jeopardy
The New York Times recently published this article, which examines the struggles that American workers face when diagnosed with serious illness. These workers
White House Shares Letter from Woman Struggling with Health Insurance
Amid continued political bickering and reports of significant increases in the cost of health insurance in many states, President Obama is pushing on to get
White House Town Hall Short on Specifics
The White House town hall earlier this week brought new attention to health reform, but did not clarify how President Obama hopes to achieve his goals.
Who Has the Correct $$ Numbers, Health Plans, the Media, or Washington?
Medicare Advantage Premiums to Decrease Slightly in 2011 In a surprising statement, the Obama administration announced earlier this week that the average
Why Does America's Health Care System Rely on Job-Based Coverage?
Most Americans get their health insurance through their jobs - but how did health insurance become primarily an employee benefit? To understand why, we need to
Why We Need Health Insurance Reform – Stories from America (#1)
As members of Congress and the White House continue to disagree about health reform, many Americans, especially people impacted by the economic downturn,
Why We Need Health Insurance Reform – Stories from America (#2)
As members of Congress and the White House continue to disagree about health reform, many Americans, especially people impacted by the economic downturn,
Why We Need Healthcare Reform
The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation recently released a report showing that the number of uninsured Americans could increase to 66 million by 2019 if America
Will Health IT Records Be Safe?
The recent theft of a Veterans' Administration laptop containing the personal information and social security numbers of millions of veterans has brought data
Will My Insurance Company Cover Gardasil?
You may have seen advertisements for the new HPV vaccine called Gardasil. This vaccine may prevent cervical cancer in young women. Will your insurance
Will the $4 Generic Program Really Help Consumers?
Wal-Mart's $4 generic program has generated a lot of excitement, and other companies are offering similar savings on generic prescription drugs. However,
Wisconsin - Health Insurance - Wisconsin Health Insurance Information
Contact information for state offices and resources for obtaining and keeping health insurance in Wisconsin
Women Big Winners With Affordable Care Act
Women Spend More Under High Deductible Health Plans
A recent Harvard Medical School study shows that women who sign up for high deductible health plans have higher out of pocket costs than men. According to the
Workers Struggle To Help Their Aging Parents
A growing number of working Americans are finding that caring for their elderly parents can be even more challenging than caring for children. Employee
Would You Like to Ask Secretary Kathleen Sebelius a Question?
If you had the opportunity to sit down with Kathleen Sebelius, Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, and talk with her about the
Wyoming - Health Insurance - Wyoming Health Insurance Information
Contact information for state offices and resources for obtaining and keeping health insurance in Wyoming
X Y Z - Definitions of Health InsuranceTerms
Young Adults Largest, Fasting Growing Segment of Uninsured Population
A Commonwealth Fund report shows that young adults are the largest, fastest growing segment of our uninsured population. Young adults represent 17% of the
Your Insurance May Cover More Than You Think It Does
In most cases, people are unpleasantly surprised by their health insurance coverage. However, some cancer patients were pleasantly surprised to discover that
Your Rights under Job-Based Coverage
Learn more about your rights and protections as a patient and consumer of health insurance.
Your Rights under Job-Based Coverage
Learn more about your rights and protections as a patient and consumer of health insurance.
“More Health Care Fiction” Is Fiction!
In an editorial in the Boston Herald published online today, the newspaper's staff said,
“Report Card” on the Health of Americans Shows Mixed Results
Americans may be exercising more and smoking less, but more of us are overweight, have diabetes, drink more alcohol, have no health insurance, and have no
“Wal-Mart Law” Overturned in Federal Court
Last week, Judge Motz of the Federal District Court held that the “Wal-Mart Law” passed in Maryland was preempted by federal employee benefits law and is