Health insurance companies are still coming to grips with all of the details involved in the health “reform” bill passsed earlier this year, and there are still definitions and regulations that are in the process of being developed. While most changes won’t go into effect until 2014, there are a few changes that will take effect by October 1 of this year:
* Extension of dependent care coverage to young adults up to the age of 26
* Exclusions for pre-existing conditions no longer apply to individuals under the age of 19
* Preventive care, including routine physicals will be covered 100%, no deductible
* All lifetime dollar limits have been removed
One byproduct of this, of course, is that these items are not free (much as the government would have you believe they are! This will become readily apparent as there is a real threat of healthcare providers raising their rates on preventive care procedures, knowing that the bill is not going to be directly paid for or maybe even seen by the patient). So your premiums will probably go up somewhat the next time your policy renews.
If you have questions about healthcare reform and how it impacts your personal health insurance or that of your business, don’t hesitate to contact AC Forrest Insurance Group. We’ll be happy to help you find answers and to find cost-saving alternatives to your current coverage.