Insurance

Latest KFF Health News Stories

Obamacare Thrives In San Francisco’s Chinatown

KFF Health News Original

The immigrant community became self-sufficient by necessity, building its own hospital more than a century ago. Now, that hospital offers a health plan on Covered California that is exceeding its enrollment goals.

The Health Law’s ‘3 Rs’ For Insurers: A Bailout Or Necessary Safeguards?

KFF Health News Original

The provisions in the law are designed to help insurance companies adjust to the new markets, but Republicans warn that the program could turn out to be costly for taxpayers.

Advocates Worry That Drug Company Assistance Programs Will Be Banned From Helping Patients With Marketplace Policies

KFF Health News Original

Some specialty drugs can cost consumers — even those with insurance — thousands of dollars a year, but manufacturers often provide aid for those who meet specific income and program requirements.

Former Foster Youth Stay Insured Until 26

KFF Health News Original

Former foster youth in California are eligible for Medi-Cal until age 26 under the federal Affordable Care Act (ACA). Marcy Valenzuela has been without health insurance for the last four years. By the time she was 18, she had lived in several foster placements, had become addicted to drugs and spent time in juvenile hall. The 25-year-old is getting her life back on track, starting with her health.

The 10 Most Expensive Insurance Markets In The U.S.

KFF Health News Original

The ranking is based on the lowest price “silver” plan, which is the mid-level plan that the majority of consumers are selecting. The listed monthly premiums are for a 40-year-old person.

Joining GOP Trend, U.S. Chamber Of Commerce Urges Fix, Not Repeal, Of Obamacare

KFF Health News Original

The business lobbying group urges Republicans to shift their focus from repealing the health law to changing it in Congress. But some tea party Republicans want to continue the fight.

Local Governments In Texas Pursue Marketplace Signups

KFF Health News Original

Local government officials and community-based organizations are working together to incorporate new rules, maximize their resources and educate uninsured Texans on how to take advantage of the federal health law.

In Western N.C., Getting Health Coverage Means Getting Creative

KFF Health News Original

A navigator helps people, like John Martin (above), who fall into coverage gap in Appalachia figure out ways to qualify for and receive Obamacare insurance subsidies.

Consumers Expecting Free ‘Preventive’ Care Sometimes Surprised By Charges

KFF Health News Original

Patients sometimes find that they are expected to pay for associated services, such as facility fees or anesthesia, and health law advocates say more federal guidance is needed for billing the procedures.

Michigan Republicans Rethink Medicaid Expansion

KFF Health News Original

Michigan is one of only a handful of Republican-led states that is expanding Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act. It did it by forging a plan that worked for both political parties, business interests, doctors and hospitals.

Washington State Goes After The Young And Uninsured

KFF Health News Original

So-called “young and invincibles” are not rushing to sign up for health coverage under the Affordable Care Act, so officials are going to find them at concerts, festivals and social-media sites.