Latest KFF Health News Stories
Despite Health Law’s Protections, Many Consumers May Be ‘Underinsured’
Experts say that potential trouble spots for out-of-pocket spending include prescription drugs; specialist care, including that provided by academic medical centers; and services such as physical therapy.
One Texan Weighs Obamacare Options: High Deductible Vs. ‘Huge Fear’
Going without insurance “is like gambling,” says a 43-year-old social worker. But the high deductibles of Affordable Care Act plans make them a hard sell.
Consumers Beware: Not All Health Plans Cover A Doctor’s Visit Before The Deductible Is Met
Those buying some bronze and silver plans could have to spend thousands before full coverage kicks in.
Even In Well-Funded Colorado, Tough To Help People Enroll In Obamacare
Even with lots of money and navigators at supermarkets and other places, Colorado is only about 17 percent of the way to the goal of enrolling 136,000 people by the end of March.
Young Invincibles’ Decision: To Get Coverage Or Not
Health law backers have stepped up efforts to persuade people aged 18 to their mid-30s to give Obamacare a chance. Reaching this demographic group is viewed by many as one of the overhaul’s biggest challenges.
Health Insurers Scramble Toward Jan. 1 Coverage Deadlines
Rule changes and deadline shifts have complicated the efforts of health insurance companies to prepare for a wave of new customers and “post-enrollment snafus.”
Expect To Pay More For Your Employer-Sponsored Health Care Next Year
Some blame the health law, but experts say many of the trends fueling cost increases predate it.
A Reader Asks: Will My Son Overseas Have To Buy A U.S. Plan?
KHN’s consumer columnist says if he lives abroad at least 330 days per year, he doesn’t, but he will eventually.
What If I Don’t Like The Coverage Offered By My Employer?
Consumer columnist Michelle Andrews outlines the health insurance options for people offered coverage at work.
Consumer columnist reminds consumers that details make all the difference.
In California, It’s Not A Done Deal Until You Get The Insurance Card
Even in California, the path to finalizing new insurance coverage can be long and arduous.
A Reader Asks: Can I Opt Out Of My Retiree Plan To Get Subsidized Insurance?
The health law treats retirees differently than workers getting insurance through their jobs.
Thousands In Obamacare’s High-Risk Pools Get Month’s Reprieve
The program’s extension is one of several initiatives the Obama administration announced Thursday to make it easier for consumers to get health coverage despite balky enrollment websites.
Some Ski Country Coloradans Angry About Higher Insurance Rates
Health insurance costs more in the famous ski areas of Colorado than in nearby Denver, and residents are crying foul.
Why Some State Health Exchanges Worked
The most successful exchanges kept things simple, amply tested systems
More Than 110,000 Signed Up For Coverage Through Healthcare.gov In November
Navigators report a surge in consumer interest since the website became easier to use.
A Test For The Health Law In Scandal-Plagued Cities Of Southeast Los Angeles
Overcoming distrust of government won’t be easy in Bell and Cudahy, and neither will signing up 60 percent of the residents for Covered California insurance.
Insurers Question Health Benefits Of Some Genetic Tests
When a test is covered, typically genetic counseling is, too — to make sure the patient is a good candidate and to explain the results.
Some California Insurance Plans Narrow Doctor, Hospital Choices
In an effort to reduce costs, Blue Shield sent thousands of cancellation notices informing customers that the company will begin to offer newer, more limited plans at the beginning of the year.
For HIV Patients In Texas, Expanded Coverage Is Elusive
Many people with HIV live below the poverty line and therefore won’t qualify for Obamacare subsidies to buy private insurance, or for Medicaid since Texas officials opted against expanding that program under the law.
