Tuesday, August 24, 2010

Health Insurance Reform Update

Starting September 23, 2010 health insurance companies must remove lifetime limits and annual dollar limits on essential health benefits. The health care reform law allows a phased in implementation. The Dept of Health and Human Services will give a final definition of essential health benefits but the list is expected to include the following services:
  • Alcoholism treatment services
  • Asthma education
  • Bariatric surgery
  • Chiropractic
  • Diabetic supplies
  • Durable medical equipment
  • Hearing aids
  • Home health care
  • Hospice
  • Infusion therapy
  • Kidney disease treatment
  • Mental health/substance abuse
  • Outpatient occupational, physical, and speech therapy
  • Prescriptions
  • Preventive care
  • Prosthetic devices/limbs
  • Skilled nursing services
  • Transplants
  • Treatment for TMJ

Although most of these benefits are already available on California health plans, benefits vary from state to state depending on state laws.