KHN’s consumer columnist looks into issues raised by the health law.
A Reader Asks: How Do We Prove We Have Insurance?
KHN’s consumer columnist says details about reporting insurance status have yet to be released by the government but will be part of federal tax returns next year.
Abortion Coverage Details Hard To Find On Marketplace Plans
Both opponents and supporters complain that consumers cannot easily see whether the policies will pay for abortion services.
A Reader Asks: Do I Face A Penalty If My Kids’ CHIP Coverage Starts In April?
KHN’s consumer columnist says new federal guidance says as long as you applied during open enrollment you will not face a penalty.
Nevada Offers Rare Bet: Year-Round Sales Of Health Plans
It is the only state to mandate that insurers who sell individual plans outside the online marketplace must keep sales open throughout the year. The health law allows insurers to offer individual plans even outside the open enrollment period, but in most areas few companies appear interested.
A Reader Asks: Does My Swedish Health Plan Meet ACA Requirements?
KHN’s consumer columnist reports that foreign insurance policies must meet HHS standards for “minimum essential coverage” to be considered a replacement for marketplace plans.
Community Health Centers May Provide Services For Those Who Remain Uninsured
People who chose to not enroll under the health law or could not afford coverage have limited options for care.
A Reader Asks: How Do I Get A Subsidy If I’m Hiding From My Abusive Spouse?
KHN’s consumer columnist answers a question about the complicated rules for people suffering from domestic abuse who don’t want to file a tax return with their spouse.
KHN’s consumer columnist answers questions about how the health law and online exchanges work.
A Reader Asks: After I Was In The Hospital, Can I Buy Insurance To Cover My Bills?
KHN’s consumer columnist says insurance generally doesn’t apply to charges for hospital or doctors services from before you signed up, with one exception.
Warning: Opting Out Of Your Insurance Plan’s Provider Network Is Risky
Out-of-pocket spending limits and some other safeguards in the health law may not apply.
HHS Says Insurers’ Coverage For Same-Sex Spouses Must Match Other Married Couples
Insurers can’t offer health coverage to a spouse in a traditional marriage if they don’t also make the same coverage available to spouses in same-sex marriages, the federal government announced Friday. The change means that same-sex married couples who have been unable to buy family policies will be able to do so. The guidance, presented in an FAQ […]
A Reader Asks: Would An IRA Withdrawal Count As Income For Exchange Subsidies?
KHN’s consumer columnist responds to a reader who is living off savings and wants to find a way to qualify for subsidies on the health insurance marketplace.
Window Is Closing To Sign Up Or Seek Changes To Obamacare Plans
Some consumers who were stymied by website foul-ups may be able to receive retroactive subsidies or choose different plans.
A Reader Asks: Can I Buy An Exchange Plan When My Policy Expires In May?
KHN’s consumer columnist explains that people can pick an exchange plan if their individual health insurance policies expire after open enrollment ends. Still, it’s smart to start shopping now.
Health Law Provides No Guarantees Of Access To Midwives, Birthing Centers
The overhaul mandated maternity coverage, but some private insurance plans don’t include services.
A Reader Asks: How Do I Apply For Coverage For My Son In Another State?
KHN’s consumer columnist explains that parents can get a child-only policy for a dependent living elsewhere while still getting coverage for themselves at home.
Readers Ask About Whether Some Practices By Doctors, Insurers Are Acceptable
KHN’s consumer columnist responds to questions about whether doctors can request to keep a patient’s credit card on file, if a woman can sign up for insurance after becoming pregnant and whether an insurer can keep a young man off his parent’s policy.
A Reader Asks: Can My Doctor Charge Me For ‘Chronic Disease Management’ In My Annual Physical?
KHN’s consumer columnist says that even though many preventive care services are covered without cost to the patient, “evaluation and management services” can be billed separately.
Some Plans Refuse To Cover Medical Costs Related To Suicide Despite Federal Rules
Under the health law and 2006 regulations, insurers can’t deny medical coverage for an individual’s injuries because they resulted from medical condition such as depression, even if it was not diagnosed before the injury.
