NEEBCo News





	News February 6, 2012 Health Insurance Exchanges Entrench States - NH Legislators looking at legislation to prohibit state exchange February 1, 2012 Federal Healthcare Spending to Double Over Next Decade - Specifically on mandatory programs January 30, 2012 DOJ Submits Brief to Supreme Court - Claims they do not need strike down entire Healthcare Law January 27, 2012 AMA Sends Request to House Speaker to Halt New Insurance Codes - New Codes could cost practices anywhere between $83,290 and $2.7 million January 25, 2012 Simplified Health Plan Summaries Supported by Consumer Groups - Concerns that industry complaints about costs may derail requirement January 24, 2012 States Lagging in Setting Up Exchanges May Have the Most to Gain - Study finds 15 states will receive the most federal subsidy dollars per capita January 18, 2012 More Young Adults on Parents Health Policies - Increased from 24.7 percent to 27.7 percent January 17, 2012 Elections May Impact Healthcare Law - Maybe more than High Court January 13, 2012 Healthcare Reform - Essential benefits could vary from state to state January 12, 2012 New Hampshire Hospitals Seek Restoration in Medicaid Budget Cuts - Hospitals looking for relief January 10, 2012 Obama Administration Submits Healthcare Defense - Supreme court asked to uphold the healthcare law January 5, 2012 Maine Legislature to Address Budget Cuts - MaineCare could be impacted January 3, 2012 New Hampshire - Five year Medicaid contract deal under consideration December 30, 2011 States Awarded Bonuses for High CHIP Enrollments - Bonus payments awarded to 23 states totaling $296 million December 28, 2011 New Health Insurance Fees Start in 2012 - Fee is to fund research December 20, 2011 Supreme Court Schedules Healthcare Hearing - Three days scheduled starting March 26, 2012 December 16, 2011 Ryan-Wyden Medicare Plan Introduced - New cost-cutting plan for Medicare December 12, 2011 Congress May Implement Temporary Medicare Fix - Plan will charge rich seniors more for Medicare coverage December 9, 2011 New Hampshire Seeks Dismissal of Suit Over Medicaid Reimbursement - Ten hospitals involved in suit December 8, 2011 Spending Gaps Increase Between States - CMS says Massachusetts is the Top Spender December 7, 2011 New Hampshire to Repay $35 Million - Funds sent in error to state in 2004 December 5, 2011 Health Insurance Refunds Altered - HHS issued a revision on Friday December 2, 2011 Healthcare Provider Breaches on the Rise - Ponemon Institute releases study November 28, 2011 Berwick To Resign As CMS Head - Berwick's deputy to succeed him November 22, 2011 Supercommittee Fails to Reach Agreement - May lead to healthcare cuts November 21, 2011 Americans More Concerned About Economy - Poll Conducted By Kaiser Foundation November 16, 2011 Televised Hearing Requested for Healthcare Review - Decision of Court will impact every American November 15, 2011 SCOTUS Agrees to Hear Health Care Reform Case - Hearing will be held March 2012 November 14, 2011 Announcement Awaited From SCOTUS - Constitutionality of healthcare reform in the balance November 9, 2011 Federal Appeals Panel Upholds Health Reform Law - Upheld Individual mandate to purchase health insurance November 7, 2011 National Governors Association Sends Letter to HHS Secretary - Urging federal officials to take over certain functions November 4, 2011 Medicare Cuts Trigger Lawsuit from California Hospital Association - Attempting to block a ten percent cut November 1, 2011 Affordable Care Act Applies to Single Coverage - Many feared it would not apply to families October 26, 2011 CDC Recommends Boys Be Vaccinated Against HPV - Expansion of vaccine to boys age 11-21 October 24, 2011 Some States Limiting Medicaid Hospital Stays - Weak economy driving more jobless Americans into Medicaid October 21, 2011 Senate Rejects Personal Importation of Canadian Drugs - Senators that were in favor of allowing individuals to purchase drugs from Canada in 2009 now opposed to it October 20, 2011 White House Opposes CLASS Act Repeal - HHS Secretary admits it is financially unsustainable October 18, 2011 HHS Will Not Implement Long-Term Care Insurance Provision of Healthcare Reform - Doubts over its financial solvency October 14, 2011 House Republicans Allege Private Medical Records Will Be Turned Over To Federal Government - Insurers must provide claims data October 12, 2011 HHS Charged With Determining Essential Benefits - Institute of Medicine gave report to HHS last week October 6, 2011 Supreme Court May Wait Until After Presidential Election to Rule on Health Care Reform - Constitutionality of individual mandate in the balance October 4, 2011 Supreme Court Hears Medicaid Cut Challenge - Case stems from a California lawsuit October 3, 2011 Supreme Court Expected to Hear Two Health Related Cases - Medicaid rate hearing will be first September 30, 2011 Administration Asks Supreme Court to Rule on PPACA - Sources confident the court will rule in its favor September 28, 2011 Heath Insurance Costing More - Covering less, according to a Kaiser Foundation report September 26, 2011 District of Columbia Appeals Judges to Rule on Healthcare Reform Lawsuit - PPACA is getting mixed reviews by federal appeals judges September 22, 2011 Medicare Advantage Premiums To Fall - Enrollment expected to rise next year September 20, 2011 Medicare Enrollment To Begin Earlier - Enrollment will close December 7 September 16, 2011 HHS Proposes Rule To Allow Patients Direct Access To Medical Data- Rule would allow patients to obtain test data from labs directly. September 14, 2011 Washington Update - Jobs and Federal Deficit Dominate Hill September 12, 2011 WellPoint to Use Watson - Watson, an IBM computer will analyze patient records September 7, 2011 Summer Recess Over - Congress and President back in Washington September 2, 2011 Generic Drugs Delayed in Introduction to the Market - FTC alleges illegal "sweetheart" deals August 31, 2011 Most States Have Not Passed Laws Creating Insurance Exchanges - Many have returned federal funding to create exchanges August 29, 2011 Drug Supply Shortages Continue to Grow - Uncertain when end in sight August 25, 2011 HHS Releases Summary of Coverage Documents - Document is almost 5 months late in being released August 22, 2011 Healthcare Reform Appeal May Wait - Possibly until after the 2012 Presidential election August 18, 2011 Rules for Comparing Insurance Plans Proposed - Goal is to make it easier for consumers to shop insurance and compare plans August 16, 2011 President Confident Supreme Court Will Uphold Healthcare Law - Stated it should be upheld without a problem August 15, 2011 11th Circuit Court Rules in Health Care Reform Lawsuit - Rules that the individual mandate is unconstitutional August 10, 2011 Supreme Court to Hear Medicaid Reimbursement Case - Scheduled for October 3rd August 8, 2011 Critical Medications In Short Supply - Shortages are nationwide August 4, 2011 Debt Ceiling Debate Suggests Raising Medicare Eligibility to 67 - Questions if it will undermine health care reform law August 2, 2011 HHS Announces Insurers Must Cover Contraception In Full - Effective August 1, 2012 August 1, 2011 Office of Health Insurance Exchanges Stepping Down - Uncertain if it will impact roll out of federal exchange July 28, 2011 Consumers Willing to Pay More for Customized Health Plans - Eighty percent expect customer service to be easier and more convenient July 26, 2011 Affordable Coverage Not Defined - Employers face fines if not providing "affordable coverage" July 21, 2011 New Hampshire Appeals Federal Ruling - State ordered to repay $35 million in Disproportionate Hospital Funds July 19, 2011 Insured Americans Skipping Medical Treatment - Economy and high out of pocket costs to blame July 16, 2011 Governor Lynch Allow Bills to Pass Without Signature - HB 601and SB 148 July 15, 2011 Independent Payment Advisory Board Under Fire - Defended by HHS Secretary July 12, 2011 President Proposes Raising Medicare Eligibility Age - Proposal would take effect after 2012 elections July 11, 2011 IPAB Under Fire - Independent Payment Advisory Board could ration care July 6, 2011 Medicare Prescription Drug Customers to Benefit from Healthcare Reform - Price cuts to be seen this year July 1, 2011 Sixth Circuit Upholds Healthcare Law - Upholds constitutionality of mandating Americans purchase health insurance June 29, 2011 Mystery Shopper Plan Abandoned - Outpouring of opposition forced Obama administration to back down June 27, 2011 Groups Ask Congress to Repeal IPAB - About 270 groups have signed letter for repeal June 23, 2011 Most Americans Will Obtain Healthcare Coverage Through Employer - Once healthcare reform goes into full effect June 20, 2011 HHS Shutting Down Healthcare Waivers - Ending earlier than initially planned June 15, 2011 GAO Reviews Healthcare Law Waivers - Finds no bias but questions still unanswered June 13, 2011 Can Medicaid Overhaul Be Blocked - Senate Democrats say they have the votes June 9, 2011 Is Healthcare Mandate Setting an Overreach Precedent? Three-judge panel hears appeal arguments June 8, 2011 Florida Healthcare Reform Appeal Hearing Set For Today - Third federal appeals court to hear arguments June 7, 2011 Study Reveals Cancer Treatment Costs High - Patients out of pocket costs high June 1, 2011 Lower Premiums Announced for Healthcare Reform High Risk Pools - Lagging enrollment reason for the change May 31, 2011 High Deductible Health Plans Becoming More Popular - Ten million signed up for plan in 2010 May 25, 2011 Accountable Care Organizations Still Facing Criticism - Seven Senators want HHS to re-write rules May 24, 2011 More Adults Under Age 26 Receiving Health Insurance Coverage - Healthcare reform responsible for upswing May 18, 2011 Coalition Requests Lawmakers to Repeal OTC Medication Limits - Over the counter medications not reimbursable without a prescription May 16, 2011 New Hampshire Receives Health Care Reform Waiver - One of two more states approved May 13, 2011 MVP Reaches Agreement With Hospitals - Contract agreement through December 31, 2013 May 11, 2011 Fourth Circuit Appeals Court Hears Two Healthcare Reform Challenges - Judges signal they will uphold provisions in law that require mandatory health coverage May 4, 2011 House Passes Bill to Defund Insurance Exchanges - Vote fell mainly along party lines May 3, 2011 President Threatens to Veto House Proposed Bills - Bills aim to defund portions of health care law May 2, 2011 Medicare Offers Financial Incentives - Obama Administration issues final regulations on incentives for quality care performance April 28, 2011 CBO Reports Repealing Exchange Grants Save Money - Savings could be roughly $14 billion over 10 years April 26, 2011 Supreme Court Denies Request for Health Law Expedited Hearing - Case will proceed through 4th Circuit Court of Appeals April 21, 2011 House Chairmen Request Healthcare Spending Reduction Plan From President - President plans to cut $480 billion over next twelve years April 19, 2011 Supreme Court Takes No Action - Uncertain if they will approve an expedited hearing for healthcare law April 15, 2011 President Signals Medicare Must Change - Necessary to avert fiscal crunch April 14, 2011 Supreme Court to Decide on Fast Tracking Healthcare Law Challenge - Indication from court could come this month April 13, 2011 Survey of Insurance Brokers Reveals Harsh Reality of Health Care Reform - Medical Loss Ration provision a driver April 12, 2011 DOJ and FTC in Dispute - Oversight of Antitrust provisions key issue April 11, 2011 Budget Agreement Does Not Defund Healthcare Reform - Separate vote in Senate expected on two measures April 7, 2011 Survey of Insurance Brokers Reveals Harsh Reality of Health Care Reform - Medical Loss Ration provision a driver April 6, 2011 1099 Repeal Bill Sent to President - Senate voted to repeal the 1099 reporting requirement included in the healthcare reform bill April 5, 2011 Senator Paul Ryan Aiming for Large Budget Cuts - Medicare and Medicaid revisions included April 4, 2011 Obama Administration Files Appeals Vinson Ruling - 11th Circuit Court of Appeals to hear case March 31, 2011 HHS to Release ACO Regulations - Regulations could become voluminous March 28, 2011 Young Adults Targeted For Benefits Of Healthcare Reform - HHS Secretary leads the discussion March 23, 2011 State approves Concord Hospital's $11.6 Million Upgrade - This in spite of Governor Lynch's call for a moratorium on certificates March 22, 2011 Health Care Reform One-Year Anniversary - Small businesses may not be taking advantage of tax credit March 19, 2011 Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Ranked Highest Health Plan in New England - Third year in a row March 17, 2011 HHS Reports on Medicare Annual Wellness Visits - To date, over 150,000 Medicare recipients have taken advantage of the benefit March 14, 2011 Department of Justice Requests Expedited Hearing - Administration must file papers by April 4th March 10, 2011 Administration Seeking Expedited Appeal - Asking the US Court of Appeals in Atlanta to speed its review of Judge Vinson's decision March 8, 2011 HHS Unveils Preliminary Format for Rate Increase Notices - Companies would have to post electronically for rate increases ten percent or greater March 1, 2011 States Legislative Bodies Back in Session - Issues surrounding implementation of healthcare reform front and center February 28, 2011 States Seek Medicaid Waivers - Requesting waivers so they can reduce their Medicaid rolls. February 25, 2011 States file response to Justice Department Request for clarification - Florida ruling means healthcare law need not be implemented February 22, 2011 Anthem and Exeter Hospital Come to Agreement - Agreement keeps physicians and hospital in Anthem network February 18, 2011 HHS Works With States on Medicaid Shortfalls - Teams being sent around country to help analyze budgets February 14, 2011 Bipartisan House Bill Targets Medicare Fraud - Lax oversight of the Medicare Part D prescription drug program is in the spotlight February 9, 2011 Provisions in Healthcare Law Raise Antitrust Concerns - Mergers and alliances could result in reduced competition and increased costs for consumers February 7, 2011 Virginia to Ask For Expedited Supreme Court Ruling - Court rarely grants such hearings February 3, 2011 Senate Votes to Repeal 1099 Reporting Requirement - Passed in Senate with a vote of 81-17 February 1, 2011 Federal Judge Rules Healthcare Law Unconstitutional - Entire law ruled unconstitutional January 25, 2011 Two Massachusetts Insurers Exploring Merger - Harvard Pilgrim Health Care and Tufts Health Plan January 24, 2011 Senate Republicans Want to Force Vote on Repeal of Healthcare - Senate Majority Leader, Harry Reid (D-NV) says bill will not come up for a vote January 20, 2011 House Votes to Repeal Healthcare Reform - Moves to Senate January 19, 2011 House Debates Repeal of Healthcare Reform Today - Uncertain if Senate Majority Leader will bring it up for a vote in the Senate January 18, 2011 Debate of Healthcare Reform Repeal Continues - Many call for civility in debate January 13, 2011 No Agreement Between Anthem and Exeter Hospital - PPO, EPO, HMO, Access Blue, and Blue Choice Members impacted January 12, 2011 Quest Diagnostics Lab Opens in Gilford - Good news for Anthem site of service members January 11, 2011 Cigna Withdraws From Fully Insured Small Group Medical Market - Small groups with 50 or fewer employees affected January 10, 2011 House Passes Procedural Measure - Allows a vote for Healthcare repeal January 4, 2011 GOP House to Vote to Repeal Healthcare Reform Law - Vote scheduled for January 12th December 31, 2010 Three NAHU Newswire Updates - Healthcare reform still front and center December 22, 2010 New Rules for Insurance Premium Increases - HHS releases regulations December 21, 2010 Employer Sponsored Healthcare Coverage Down - Three-Year Low December 17, 2010 NAIC to Vote on Standardization of Health Policy Descriptions - Insurers would be required to provide benefit information on a standardized chart December 14, 2010 Exeter Hospital will no longer be part of Anthem Network - Effective midnight, December 31st December 14, 2010 As Expected, Judge Rules Healthcare Law Unconstitutional - The U.S. Supreme Court may make final decision December 13, 2010 Federal Judge to Rule on Healthcare Challenge Today - Virginia challenge first of many December 10, 2010 President Expected to Sign Medicare Reimbursement Freeze - Congress gave final approval Thursday December 8, 2010 Medicare "Doc Fix" Agreement Tentative - One-year deal tentatively agreed up by Senate leaders November 30, 2010 Health Care 1099 Tax Provision Not Repealed - Senate fails to meet necessary vote to overturn the provision November 29, 2010 Health Exchanges to Include Minimum Benefits Requirements - Minimum benefits established by Congress November 23, 2010 Medical Loss Ratio Rules Unveiled - Obama administration says rules will lead to more transparency November 19, 2010 NH Receives $2.4 Million - Part of drug settlement November 15, 2010 Employer Group Pushing Back on FSA Restrictions - Meanwhile, Senator Baucus to introduce a bill to kill 1099 filing requirement November 10, 2010 Senator McConnell Plans to Join Suit - Challenging the constitutionality of the health reform law November 9, 2010 Medicare Reimbursement Cuts Effective December First - Will be catastrophic for seniors November 8, 2010 High Risk Pool Enrollment Disappointing - A little more than 8,000 have enrolled nationwide November 4, 2010 Will Healthcare Legislation be Repealed? - Recent election could assure a re-examination of the law November 1, 2010 HHS to Award Grants to Five States - Grants to assist in establishing Exchanges October 28, 2010 Midterm Elections Could Impact Healthcare Reform - Impact will depend on what party controls the House and Senate October 25, 2010 HHS Secretary Weighs in on NAIC Recommendations - Medical Loss Ratio recommendations "reasonable" October 22, 2010 NAIC Executive Committee Endorses MLR - Broker and agent fees to be included in the calculation of expenses October 21, 2010 Medical Loss Ratio Rules Forthcoming - NAIC executive committee set to vote on Thursday October 20, 2010 UnitedHealth Project Announced - Aims to reduce costs for oncology drugs October 16, 2010 Florida Federal Judge Allows Healthcare Lawsuit to Proceed - Twenty states have joined the challenge October 14, 2010 Higher Premiums for Sick Children Allowed - Obama administration aiming to encourage health insurance companies to offer child-only policies October 11, 2010 HHS Unable to Waive High Risk Pool Eligibility Requirements - No credible coverage the issue October 8, 2010 Bill Proposed to Seek Public Opinion on Healthcare Reform - Introduced by Senator John Cornyn (R-Texas) October 6, 2010 Legal Challenges of Healthcare Law Moving Forward - Judges expected to rule on lawsuits October 4, 2010 Shortfall of Doctors Predicted - Influx of millions of people into health system contributing to the cause October 1, 2010 States Awarded Grants - Money to be used by states to help design new health insurance exchanges September 30, 2010 Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Dropping Medicare Advantage - Effective at the end of the year September 27, 2010 Election Update - Impact of Health Care Reform September 22, 2010 State Budgets Feeling the Pinch - Responsible for implementing healthcare reform law September 21, 2010 Will Higher Prices Offset Medicare Drug Discounts? Patient advocacy groups concerned September 20, 2010 Tax Credits Could Benefit 84% of Small Businesses - Companies with fewer than twenty-five workers and average wages of less than $50,000 could benefit September 15, 2010 Repeal of Tax Requirement Rejected by Senate - Businesses will have to be ready to comply with Form 1099 reporting provision in healthcare reform September 14, 2010 Hearing on Constitutionality of Healthcare Reform Taking Place This Week - Florida lawsuit is one of many September 10, 2010 HHS Secretary Warns Insurers - Cease Blaming Premium Hikes on Health Reform September 8, 2010 Healthcare Law Debate Continues - Midterm elections could bring changes September 3, 2010 Healthcare Costs Shifting to Workers - Downturn in economy a factor September 1, 2010 Docs4PatientCare Announce Waiting Room Campaign - Letter to patients to be posted in waiting rooms August 30, 2010 Senate to Vote on Repeal of a Healthcare Reform Provision - 1099 reporting requirements for expenditures over $600 on the agenda August 27, 2010 U.S. Hospitals Challenged with ERH Standard - Only two percent of hospitals meet federal criteria August 24, 2010 Low-Cost Student Health Plans - Plans may not meet the criteria set forth in the Health Care Reform Legislation August 23, 2010 Will Health Reform Destroy Private Companies? - Op-ed claims it will August 18, 2010 Insurance Commissioners Meet - Approve what carries can count as medical costs August 16, 2010 High Risk Pools Costly For Some - As of last week, 2,400 had applied for coverage in the 22 states the federal government is running August 13, 2010 Hospital Bad Debt Tied to Insured Patients - May force them to collect copays up front August 12, 2010 Law Enforcement Cracking Down on Fake Insurance Plans - Federal Trade Commission and state agencies involved August 10, 2010 Suit Filed Against Massachusetts Health Insurance Connector - Man cannot afford health insurance premium NOTICE For: August 9, 2010 Monday, August 9, 2010 @ 1:00PM - Communications upgrade at NEEBCo - Outage possible August 4, 2010 Missouran's Make a Statement - Vote against mandate in healthcare law August 3, 2010 Virginia's Healthcare Lawsuit Allowed to Move Forward - Federal Judge refused to dismiss suit July 29, 2010 Small Business Threatened - Penalties a financial burden on small businesses July 27, 2010 $2 Billion Paid in COBRA Subsidy Benefits - Covered 2 million households July 21, 2010 Anthem Blue Cross President Resigns - Resignation announced Tuesday among criticism of rate increases July 19, 2010 Arrests Made in Medicare Scams - Ninety-four arrested around country July 15, 2010 No Cost Sharing for Preventive Services - Applies to insurance plans created after September 23, 2010 July 13, 2010 Medicare Part D - Credible Coverage Disclosure Notices Due by Nov. 14 July 8, 2010 1099 Reporting Requirements Changing - Change takes effect as of 2012 July 6, 2010 CDC Claims 90% of Patients Do Not Follow Medical Advice - Experts are asked to simplify communication July 1, 2010 High Risk Pools in Several States Accepting Applications Today - Montana and Pennsylvania first states to offer coverage June 30, 2010 Massachusetts Division of Insurance Releases Health Insurance Data - Number of sick people purchasing health insurance coverage only when sick quadrupled June 28, 2010 Most State's High Risk Pools Accepting Applications Thursday - Larger states may miss deadline June 25, 2010 Massachusetts Appeals Board Overturns Cap on Premium Increase - Harvard Pilgrim Health Care rate increase found to be reasonable June 22, 2010 CBO Predicts Federal High-Risk Pool Will Require More Money - Could cost three times more than what is currently budgeted now June 21, 2010 Medicare "Doc Fix" Passed - Cuts postponed until November 30th June 15, 2010 President Postpones Medicare Physician Cuts - CMS to holding claims until Friday June 14, 2010 Grandfathered Plan Status in Jeopardy - Obama Administration working on regulations that could cause many plans to lose their grandfathered status June 11, 2010 Senate Democrats submit "Extender Bill" - Price tag about $140 Billion and adds about $77.5 billion to deficit June 10, 2010 Medicare Payment Cuts May Increase Cost of Private Insurance - Average family pays an extra $1,500 in premium annually June 9, 2010 Senate Democrats submit "Extender Bill" - Price tag about $140 Billion and adds about $77.5 billion to deficit June 2, 2010 State Insurance Regulators Unable to Meet June 1 Deadline - Percentage of medical premium spent on claims at issue June 1, 2010 HHS Director to Address Medicare Reimbursement Inequities - Geographic location a factor May 28, 2010 Federal High Risk Pool Funding Inadequate? As few as 200,000 Americans may actually get benefits through the pool. May 25, 2010 Massachusetts Health Insurers Taking Charge - Considering freezing or slashing payments to some hospitals and physician groups May 24, 2010 CMS Issues Draft Agreement - Medicare Part D 50% discount on drugs May 21, 2010 Congress to Extend Jobless Benefits Through End of Year - Medicare payment cuts delayed until 2014 May 20, 2010 Cadillac Tax" Could Impact 60% or More of Large Employers - 40% Tax is not deductible May 18, 2010 Massachusetts Health Insurers 1st Quarter Losses Over $100 Million - Insurers blame Governor and Department of Insurance May 17, 2010 Lead Lobbying Group for Small Business Joins Healthcare Law Suit - Has joined 20 states in legal challenge May 13, 2010 CBO Increases Health Care Reform Costs by $115 Billion - Health Care Reform could top $1 Trillion May 12, 2010 Rules for Extending Dependent Coverage Released - White House issued rules allowing young adults to remain on parents' policies up to age 26 May 10, 2010 Mental Health Parity Delay Requested - Employer Groups and Insurers request re-work of rule May 6, 2010 HHS Secretary Writes State Regulators - Urges them to scrutinize WellPoint rate increases May 4, 2010 CMS Issues Preliminary Guideline on 'Doughnut Hole" - Discount to be at point of sale May 3, 2010 Health Care Reform Fails to Address College Health Plans - School sponsored plans may exploit students April 29, 2010 Will Supreme Court Uphold Mandatory Insurance Mandate - Professor of constitutional law argues no April 28, 2010 Rescissions Ceased For Patients With Pre-Existing Conditions - WellPoint, Blue Shield of California will stop the practice of dropping sick policyholders April 23, 2010 Federal High Risk Pool Opens in July - ONLY uninsured with pre-existing health conditions can apply April 22, 2010 All But Three State Lose Medicaid Funds - Arizona, Masschusetts, and New Mexico April 21, 2010 Three Carriers to Keep Young Adults on Parents' Policy - Agreed to do so prior to law taking effect April 15, 2010 Massachusetts State Senator Asking Healthcare Providers for $100 Million - Attempt to control health insurance costs for small businesses April 13, 2010 Judge Denies Injunctive Relief - States insurers had not exhausted their right to appeal administratively April 8, 2010 Massachusetts Rate Rejection Not Resolved - Two carriers resume making new policies at last years rates April 6, 2010 Suit Filed in Massachusetts - Six insurers and an industry trade group filed suit Monday in response to rejected proposed premium increases April 5, 2010 HHS Secretary Seeks to Establish High Risk Pools - Looks to states to see how they would like to proceed April 1, 2010 Maine Court to Rule on Rejected Premium Increase - Meanwhile, Massachusetts regulators reject 9 out of 10 rate increase requests March 31, 2010 Sebelius Flexes Muscle - Children with pre-existing conditions to be covered as of September March 29, 2010 President to Sign Final Healthcare Bill Tuesday - Some reforms start immediately March 24, 2010 Healthcare Bill Signed Into Law - High-income households to pay more in Medicare taxes March 23, 2010 Campaign to Repeal Healthcare Reform Launched - Will carryover into the 2010 elections March 22, 2010 House Passes Healthcare Bill 219-212 - Battle moves to Senate and Courts March 19, 2010 President Cancels Trip to Asia - Anticipates vote on healthcare reform bill Sunday March 18, 2010 President Defends Healthcare Reform - Up or down vote uncertain March 17, 2010 Will Healthcare Reform Pass Without a Vote - Controversy swirls over "Deem and Pass" March 16, 2010 Could Health Care Bill be Passed Without a Vote? What is being called a "sleight of hand" could do just that March 15, 2010 House Still Looking For Votes to Pass Health Care Bill - President postponed trip to Asia to work on passage March 9, 2010 President Critical of Health Insurers - Meanwhile states question federal health insurance rate regulation March 8, 2010 President Pressing for Health Reform Bill - Would like resolution prior to Easter recess March 4, 2010 Medicare Covers Fraction of Elderly Health Expenses - Lifetime expenses for a couple after age 65 close to $200,000 March 3, 2010 Medicare Covers Fraction of Elderly Health Expenses - Lifetime expenses for a couple after age 65 close to $200,000 March 2, 2010 President Gives Reconciliation Nod - Democrats work to gather majority support February 26, 2010 No Resolution in Health Care Summit - Is reconciliation the answer? February 22, 2010 Healthcare Summit Set for Thursday - Will be broadcast live February 19, 2010 Senator Gregg Offers "CPR" to White House - Suggestions for Healthcare Reform February 18, 2010 Healthcare Summit Set For Next Week - Sebelius says House and Senate Bills are the starting point for discussions February 16, 2010 House Speaker, Nancy Pelosi Urges Reconciliation - Democrats say no need to abandon the idea February 6, 2010 Progressives Pushing Public Healthcare Option - Talks to include Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) February 5, 2010 NEEBCo Employees Continues to Support Local Charity - Friends of Forgotten Children (FOFC) February 4, 2010 House Democratic Leaders Introducing Plan B Healthcare Reform Friday - Piecemeal approach now being considered February 2, 2010 Healthcare Reform Taking Place in Some States - At least 11 states considering expansion of healthcare coverage January 31, 2010 Is Health Reform Dead or Alive - Depending on whom you listen to, it could be different January 30, 2010 Fort Dearborn Life Becomes Dearborn Life - Name change became effective January 4, 2010 January 28, 2010 President Urges Congress to Pass Health Reform - House Speaker suggests two-track plan January 25, 2010 White House Plans to Continue Push for Major Healthcare Reform - Vows to not walk away from American people January 22, 2010 Pelosi Concedes - She does not have the votes to get the Senate bill through the House January 21, 2010 President Signals New Tack for Healthcare Reform - No new approach decided on January 20, 2010 Current Health Reform Bills Could be in Jeopardy - Election of Brown in Massachusetts has lawmakers re-thinking their stance January 15, 2010 Late Night Agreement Made - "Cadillac Plan" Tax will go into effect in 2018 January 13, 2010 Hidden Costs of Health Reform - Patients to bear additional costs January 12, 2010 President Signals he May Compromise on "Cadillac Plan" Tax - Labor Unions oppose tax on these plans January 7, 2010 States Worried About Health Reform Cost Shift - Financial burdens may by force many further into debt January 6, 2010 No Plans to Appoint a "Formal" House-Senate Conference Committee on Health Reform - Republicans will be excluded from process January 4, 2010 Twenty-Three Million Could Remain Uninsured Under Healthcare Reform - Constitutionality of reform may make it to the Supreme Court. December 30, 2009 Is the Nebraska Medicaid Deal "Unconstitutional"? - Ten conservative states prepare lawsuit to challenge Senate reform bill December 29, 2009 Senate Passed Healthcare Reform Bill - Now the House and Senate must merge the two bills December 21, 2009 Senate and House pass H.R. 3326, Defense Appropriations Bill - COBRA Subsidy Extension Provisions Included in House-Passed Defense Appropriations Bill December 18, 2009 COBRA Subsidy Extension Could Be Voted on Before Christmas - Senate has attached it to Defense spending bill December 17, 2009 Cobra Stimulus Scheduled to End - House has acted to extend benefit but Senate has not December 16, 2009 Uncertain if Healthcare Bill Will Make it to Presidents Desk Before Year End - President Obama cautiously optimistic December 15, 2009 Senator Lieberman (I-CT) Opposed to Medicare Buy-in - Threatened to join Republicans in Senate vote December 14, 2009 Last Weeks Round-up on Healthcare Reform - Managers Amendment sent to CBO for review December 11, 2009 Reimportation of Prescription Drugs Stalls Senate Healthcare Debate - Could undo agreement between Whitehouse and Pharmaceutical Industry December 4, 2009 Senator Snowe Asks CBO for Data on Reform Bill - Looking for state specific information on how reform would impact premiums December 3, 2009 AARP Supports Medicare Cuts in Senate Healthcare Bill - McCain claims cuts to Medicare would impact seniors' access to quality care December 1, 2009 The Partisan Healthcare Debate Continues - Senator Reid confident the Senate will pass a healthcare bill November 30, 2009 Senate Set to Debate Healthcare Reform Today - Doubtful if 60 votes there to advance legislation November 25, 2009 Thanksgiving Items Delivered to Friends of Forgotten Children - Donation made by NEEBCo employees November 23, 2009 Senate Votes to Start Healthcare Debate - Side by Side Comparison of Both Bills November 20, 2009 Senate Set to Vote on Saturday Night - First Vote to allow debate on Senate floor November 19, 2009 Senate Bill Released - Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act H.R. 3590 November 18, 2009 Senate May See Health Bill this Week - Special caucus meeting scheduled for 5:00 p.m. Wednesday November 16, 2009 Senate Waiting on CBO to Release Cost of Senate Healthcare Reform Bill - Debate could start next week November 13, 2009 Harvard Pilgrim Health Care #1 Commercial Health Plan - Top ranked plan for five consecutive years November 12, 2009 Senate May Start Healthcare Debate Next Week - House prepared to remain in session until December 22nd November 9, 2009 House Passes Health Care Reform Bill - Vote: 220-215 November 6, 2009 President Touts Endorsement of AARP and AMA - Urges Congress to pass healthcare reform November 4, 2009 Healthcare Reform Legislation Could be Pushed to 2010 - Senate Democrats may not have the 60 votes to prevent a filibuster November 2, 2009 Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services Announces Cuts - MRI's and CT scans are targets of cuts October 30, 2009 House Releases "Affordable Health Care for America Act" - Uncertain if they have enough votes to pass it October 29, 2009 Public Option Has Some Democrats Concerned - Reid may not have votes to push through a public option in final Senate version. October 26, 2009 Public Option May be Included in the Final Bill - House and Senate Democratic leaders may be close to agreement on some sort of public option. October 21, 2009 Senator Reid Backs Away From Separate Medicare Doctor Payment Bill - $247 billion cost over 10 years not offset or paid for October 20, 2009 Baucus Introduces Senate Finance Health Reform Legislation - closed-door talks to reconcile the two committees' bills will resume in Harry Reid's (D-NV) office October 19, 2009 Healthcare Debate Heating Up - Many seniors oppose health reform despite Administration's concessions October 16, 2009 NAHU Releases Side by Side Comparison - Senate and House Committees Versions of Healthcare Reform October 13, 2009 Today is the Day - Vote on Baucus plan expected in Senate Finance Committee today October 12, 2009 Democratic Healthcare Reform Would Take Three Years to Implement - Increased Taxes and Medicare cuts would start immediately October 9, 2009 Senate Finance Committee to vote on Baucus Plan - Vote expected next Tuesday. October 8, 2009 It's in, Baucus Bill: $829 Billion Over Ten Years - CBO analysis finds it would reduce deficit by $81 billion over decade October 7, 2009 Congressional Business Office Has Yet to Release Finance Committee Bill Score - Some question if it is a sign of bad news. October 6, 2009 Senate Finance Committee Delays Vote - Waiting for Congressional Business Office review October 5, 2009 Senate Version of Health Care Reform Scheduled For Vote - Some Democrats refused to pledge support for the bill. October 1, 2009 Governor Lynch launches HealthFirst - A new wellness-focused insurance plan for small businesses October 1, 2009 Medicaid Enrollment Increased at Higher Than Expected Rate - Federal aid in stimulus package lessened gap on state budgets September 30, 2009 Senate Finance Committee Votes Against Public Option - Two additional attempts to add a public option fail. September 29, 2009 Some States Considering State Constitutional Amendment to Ban Individual Mandate - Legal challenges could cause delays in healthcare changes September 28, 2009 House Democrats Consider Tax on High Cost Health Plans - May threaten coverage for middle class September 25, 2009 Health Care Reform Update - Senate Finance Committee pushing through markup version of bill September 23, 2009 Health Care Reform Bill Would Limit Flex Accounts - flexible spending account contributions to $2,000 per year September 22, 2009 Major Revision to Baucus Bill Expected - Increased subsidies to moderate income Americans September 21, 2009 Amendments Could Change Baucus Health Reform Bill - Both sides offer changes. September 18, 2009 H1N1 Planning Guide for Small Businesses is Available - Released by Homeland Security September 18, 2009 Senator Baucus' Healthcare Reform Plan Criticized by Both Parties - Plan is too costly to all September 17, 2009 Data Indicates Massachusetts has Highest Family Coverage Premium in Nation - Average family premium was $13,788 in 2008 September 10, 2009 President Urged Congress to Come Together to Pass Healthcare Reform - Public option still on the table September 9, 2009 President Obama's Speech to Joint Session of Congress September 8, 2009 Healthcare Reform Continues to Heat Up. Public option still in the forefront. September 4, 2009 President to Address Joint Session of Congress - Healthcare Reform is on the Agenda September 1, 2009 Are Your College Students Covered Under Your Insurance Plans? August 24, 2009 Healthcare Reform Updates Suggest Scale Down - Representative D. Hoyer says public option may need to be eliminated to pass bill August 18, 2009 The Healthcare Debate Heats Up! Let Your Elected Officials Know Your Opinion August 14, 2009 MVP Expands Network Providers Signs Concord Orthopedics and others. August 13, 2009 Congress in Recess - Healthcare Reform Debate Continues to Heat Up! July 16, 2009 Governor Signs SB115 - Expands Healthy Kids Program July 15, 2009 NEEBCo Proud Sponsor 2009 Babe Ruth Softball 16U World Series in Concord NH July 8, 2009 Harvard Pilgrim Health Care CEO, Charles D. Baker, Resigns June 26, 2009 CIGNA HealthCare Announces Changes June 2, 2009 IRS releases 2010 HSA Requirements May 27, 2009 NEEBCo Participates in Rock'n Race 2009 April 17, 2009 One Time Economic Recovery Payment March 19, 2009 Department of Labor Issues COBRA and ARRA Model Notices February 18, 2009 COBRA Premium Subsidy - The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 February 6, 2009 Mandatory Insurer Reporting Law becomes effective January 1, 2009 January 23, 2009 Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Chosen as New Carrier for NH Healthy Kids January 9, 2009 Stop & Shop Offering Free Antibiotics December 23, 2008 IRS 2009 Mileage Rate Changes December 4, 2008 Generic Drugs Save YOU Money November 21, 2008 NEEBCo Assists New Hampshire Food Bank November 12, 2008 2-1-1 New Hampshire November 5, 2008 Acute Care Hospital Comparison Released by NH Insurance Department October 29, 2008 2009 HDHP and HSA Regulatory Limits Released October 22, 2008 The Great American Smokeout is November 20th! July 21, 2008 LRGHealthcare and Anthem Reach Agreement July 17, 2008 Law Passes Requiring Coverage for Obesity & Morbid Obesity May 19, 2008 SB540 FN Approved by House April 16, 2008 Anthem and LRGH Healthcare Physicians Contract Expires March 25, 2008 SB540 Passes New Hampshire Senate December 27, 2007 Civil Union Questions Answered September 25, 2007 Insurance Department issues clarification on SB197 and HB 790
	15 Chenell Drive, Concord, New Hampshire 03301 I 603.228.1133 fax 225.1960 www.neebco.com © 2009 New England Employee Benefits Company								MyWave Login