Latest KFF Health News Stories
Feds Make It Easier For States To Enroll Poor Under Health Law
States will have the option to use data from food stamps, other programs, to enroll adults in Medicaid. Officials say the changes are geared to states that are expanding the program next year, but they may also be adopted by others.
The IRS’ Role In The Health Law Comes Under Scrutiny
As Republicans raise new questions about the IRS’ responsibilities in implementing and enforcing the health law, KHN’S Mary Agnes Carey talks to Joanna Kerpen, a partner at the law firm McDermott Will & Emery, about the job ahead for the agency.
My Insurer Says It Paid Too Much. Do I Have To Reimburse Them?
Michelle Andrews answers a reader question about having to repay an insurer that says it reimbursed too much after the patient received care from an out-of-network provider.
Coverage Problems Could Still Remain For Young Adults
Despite having access to parents’ health policies and new options provided by the health law, this age group faces challenges.
Under-26 Coverage: Does It Matter If My Child Just Got Out Of Jail?
Michelle Andrews answers a reader question about keeping your children on your health plan until they turn 26, even if they were recently released from jail.
Colorado Exchange Board Spars Over Federal Funding
Statehouse Republicans say the board has asked for too much money for Colorado’s online insurance marketplace.
Health Perks Geared To Top Workers Could Trigger Penalties Under Health Law
Employers who offer more generous benefits to highly paid workers could face $100-a-day fines for every worker who doesn’t get them.
Health Law’s Medicaid Expansion And Online Marketplaces Offer Veterans New Care Options
Many former service members have access to health care through the VA, private insurance or other government programs, such as Medicare and Tricare. But having so many choices can also lead to fragmented care.
State Spending On Consumer Assistance Could Have ‘Huge Impact’ On Marketplace Enrollment
Some states with high uninsured rates get far less money to help people sign up for coverage under the health law.
Letters to the Editor is a periodic KHN feature. We welcome all comments and will publish a selection. We will edit for space, and we require full names.
President on Obamacare: ‘Still A Big Complicated Piece Of Business’
Here is a transcript of President Barack Obama’s remarks on implementation of the health care law during his news conference today.
California Moves To Protect Smokers From Higher Obamacare Insurance Costs
The federal health law allows states to charge smokers up to 50 percent more for a health plan
For Some People Covered Through Work, An Exchange Might Be A Good Option For The Family
Insurance columnist answers readers’ questions about what might be available on the new insurance marketplaces next year when employer-provided insurance seems too expensive for a family and whether those exchanges will be available to people who are in the middle of a plan contract.
Maryland Offers Glimpse At Obamacare Insurance Math
Maryland’s CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield pitches a 25 percent average hike in premiums for individuals, down from 50 percent.
Lack Of Competition Might Hamper Health Exchanges
Some supporters of the health law fear that in states dominated by a single insurer, consumers won’t have much choice when health insurance exchanges — a key tenet of the health law — open in October.
Questions Arise About Robotic Surgery’s Cost, Effectiveness
Health plans generally pay for robotic surgery just as they would any other surgical procedure, but that could change, some say, as research helps make clear when robotic-assisted surgery helps improve patient outcomes-and when it doesn’t.
My Child Moved Away, Can I Keep Him On My Insurance?
Michelle Andrews answers a reader question about keeping your children on your health plan until they turn 26, even if they move away.
In recent weeks, readers have reacted to stories about climbing death rates at critical access hospitals, the readmissions penalties being imposed on some hospitals and Walgreens’ move to become the first retail chain to diagnose and treat chronic conditions. Other coverage that drew responses included a story about angry doctors as well as coverage of decisions made both by physicians and consumers that impact the cost of care.
Questions About Colon Screening Coverage Still Vex Consumers
Although the federal government has tried to clarify the preventive care provisions that mandate no out-of-pocket expenses for patients on screening exams, there is still a good bit of confusion.
Is My Retiree Insurance Coverage Subject To The Health Law?
Michelle Andrews answers a reader’s question about whether retiree health plans must comply with new rules under the ACA.
