Some Plans Skew Drug Benefits To Drive Away Patients, Advocates Warn
Groups file complaint with federal officials saying four Florida insurers discriminated against people with HIV in setting up pricing structure for drugs, and another analysis finds that many silver plans place medications for costly diseases in highest formulary tier.
Proposal To Add Skimpier ‘Copper’ Plans To Marketplace Raises Concerns
Advocates say the plans could expose consumers to unacceptably high out-of-pocket costs if they get sick.
A Reader Asks: Can New Employees Be Forced To Wait 90 Days For Coverage?
KHN’s consumer columnist says a 90-day delay is allowed by the health law, but employees have other options to get through that time.
Advocates Worry Conn. Decision Could Undermine Autism Coverage
That state has defined autism behavioral therapy as a type of medical benefit not subject to the mental health parity law, a move that allows insurers more latitude to limit the benefits they offer.
A Reader Asks: Can Our Plan Kick Off Our Daughter Because Her Job Offers Coverage?
KHN’s consumer columnist says the health law initially allowed some plans to do that, but that provision is no longer valid.
Readers Ask: Are Insurance Premiums Capped? Do Doctors Have To Accept Medicare?
KHN’s consumer columnist answers inquiries from readers.
A Reader Asks: As An Immigrant In The U.S. Illegally, Can I Buy Insurance?
KHN’s consumer columnist explains that the health law’s online marketplaces are not an option, but other private insurance may be.
School Nurses’ Role Expands With Access To Students’ Online Health Records
In a few districts, doctors and hospitals are making their records available to school health officials to help provide better care for children with chronic conditions.
A Reader Asks: Where Can My Daughter Who Turns 26 Mid-Year Get Coverage?
KHN’s consumer columnist offers several suggestions to a mother worried about her adult child “aging off” the family’s work-based insurance.
Rape Victims May Have To Pay For Some Medical Services
Federal law seeks to keep sexual assault victims from paying for forensic exams, but in some states they may have to cover tests and treatment for pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections.
A Reader Asks: Can I Cancel My Marketplace Plan If My Boss Decides To Offer Coverage?
KHN’s consumer columnist notes that consumers can drop a plan from the online exchanges anytime, but there are some important factors to consider.
States Consider Using Medicaid To Pay College Health Plan Premiums
Advocates say that the option will provide more flexibility for students who are eligible for the state-federal health program for low-income people.
A Reader Asks: Are Insurers Required To Cover HIV Prevention Medication Recently Recommended By CDC?
Federal health officials urge anyone at substantial risk of HIV to start an expensive prescription drug regimen that can prevent infection. But that doesn’t mean it qualifies for coverage without any cost sharing under the health law.
What Happens To A Consumer Who Gets Exchange Plan Buyer’s Remorse?
KHN’s consumer columnist looks into issues raised by readers about health law coverage.
A Reader Asks: Will Using Electronic Cigarettes Affect My Insurance Rates?
Whether e-cigarettes are subject to the tobacco surcharge is a matter of debate.
Defining What ‘Defined Contributions’ Mean For Work-Based Health Insurance
KHN’s consumer columnist examines the pros and cons of this trend, which could give employees more responsibility for their health coverage.
A Reader Asks: Where Can I Find Insurance Options Between Open Enrollments?
KHN’s consumer columnist answers a reader’s question about what happens when, because of special circumstances, one must shop for health coverage through the online insurance marketplaces even though it’s not open enrollment season.
Health Law Requires Medicare To Cover Dementia Evaluation
But an influential panel of experts says there isn’t enough evidence to recommend screening tests for the public.
Emanuel: Although ‘Not A Perfect Law,’ ACA Is Protecting Patients
The former White House adviser talks about his new book and some of his surprising predictions about health care in the next decade and beyond.
A Reader Asks: If Our Income Changes, Can We Change Plans?
KHN’s consumer columnist says people who qualified for premium and cost-sharing subsidies but later have earnings that put them over that limit can switch to less expensive plans.
