Category: Health Insurance

Affordable Care Act numbers stabilize at enrollment deadline

CMS gave consumers two extra days to sign up, as not all of the half a million people who wanted to enroll were able to do so by December 15.

Legislators question insurers about surprise billing practices

House Energy and Commerce Committee also sends letters to physician staffing firms.

Sutter Health settles antitrust case for $575 million

The antitrust case could have nationwide implications for how health systems negotiate with insurers.

Paying It Forward: ‘Bill Of The Month’ Series, A Vital Toolkit For Patients, Wraps Year 2

In our ongoing, crowdsourced investigation with NPR and CBS, we’ve armed future health system pilgrims with the tools they need to avoid exorbitant medical bills and fight back against unfair charges. Here’s a look back at 2019’s stories.

Government-Funded Day Care Helps Keep Seniors Out Of Nursing Homes And Hospitals

The aptly named Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly provides services funded by Medicaid and Medicare that range from medical and mental health care to hot lunches, recreation, transportation and haircuts. California’s newest PACE center opened recently in San Diego County.

Doctors’ online reviews show more polarization, have more impact than those of other industries

The polarizing effects of a disappointing patient experience are more dangerous to medical practices than other businesses.

CMS final rule requires ACA insurers to collect separate payment for abortions

Rule would pertain to 18 states that have health plans that offer coverage of non-Hyde abortion services.

Patient loyalty to healthcare providers is at risk over transparency, finds AccessOne survey

Most consumers say providers’ willingness to share price information prior to service is a critical factor in determining where to seek care.

PillPack, BCBS of Massachusetts, offer direct integration for drug delivery

A digital option allows members to switch to PillPack directly from their Blue Cross MyBlue member app or website.

Democrats Debate Whether Medicare for All Is ‘Realistic’

Candidates again sparred over “Medicare for All” and other approaches to health reform — but this time they waited more than two hours before wading into health policy issues.