Understanding Health Insurance Benefits
HHS releases preventive care list updates
Two weeks ago, an independent panel recommended that FDA-approved contraceptive methods and some other services be covered 100% as a preventive care service under health care reform. The Institute of Medicine developed this recommendation at the request of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
On August 1, 2011, HHS released new guidelines outlining required preventive care services for […]
Adult and Child Preventative Services List
Child Preventive Care (Birth to 18 years)
Preventive physical exams
Screening tests include:
Vision screening2
Hearing screening
Oral health assessment
Screening for lead exposure
Screening for anemia
Screening for tuberculosis
Pelvic exam and Pap test, including screening for cervical and ovarian cancer
Newborn screenings including sickle cell anemia
Developmental and behavioral assessments
Cholesterol and lipid level screening
Screening for depression
Screening and counseling for obesity
Behavioral counseling to promote a […]
Non-Grandfathered Healthcare Reform Preventive Services
As a result of the healthcare reform bill, there are going to be changes made as to what is classified and covered as a preventive wellness service. Because preventive wellness services will be covered, for the most part, by all carriers, it’s important to know what is covered and what is an out-of-pocket expense for an […]
Obesity Treatments Often Times NOT Covered by Insurers
With over two thirds of American adults overweight or obese it’s quite apparent that weight related health issues are a major concern among insurers. However, most insurers are not willing to help cover the costs related to weight management programs—leaving the member to find alternative means to cover the cost of such programs.
In […]
What is a pre-existing condition clause?
Many individuals do not even look at options outside of the plans offered by thier employers. Many times the reason for this is that they believe that any conditions that they currently have would not be covered by a new plan, but this is incorrect.
The pre-existing condition clause is actually defined as:
The overriding federal law […]
Frequently asked Questions about Ohio Health Insurance
What is a premium?A premium is the monthly cost of keeping your insurance policy in effect. Health insurance premiums are determined by a variety of factors, including your medical history, your lifestyle, and your current health status.
What is a deductible?
A deductible is an amount of medical expenses you are responsible for paying before your […]
Ohio Health Insurance Glossary
Additional Insured: Anyone covered under your plan that is not named as insured in your documentation from the insurance company.
Benefit: The dollar amount your carrier will pay when you file a claim for a covered loss.
Benefit Period: The interval during which you will be eligible for benefits. Generally, your benefit period will begin with the […]
In Health Insurance, what is considered a Qualifying Event?
A qualifying event is a change in an employee’s personal life that may impact their eligibility or dependent’s eligibility for benefits. Employees experiencing a qualifying event can change benefit elections. In Ohio, the change must be made within 31 days of the qualifying event. Qualifying events include, but are not limited to, the following:
Marriage
Divorce
Change in dependent […]
