Yoon pushes proposed ordinance on term limits for mayor Nov 22, 2009
The Globe in January reported that Coakley had launched an investigation into whether Partners had illegally colluded with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts to increase the price of health insurance ... -based insurance and health benefits management company, and has business interests and other assets worth $6. (Boston Globe)
Diane Patrick endorses Capuano in US Senate race Nov 22, 2009
However, he clearly assailed her opposition to the House health-reform package because of its ban on federal subsidies for insurance plans that cover abortion ... Capuano also reiterated his support for a public-option insurance plan as a way to bring competition to the marketplace and curb the skyrocketing increase in health costs. (Boston Globe)
Health overhaul narrowly advances Nov 22, 2009
In the coming weeks, Democrats must resolve an intraparty dispute over whether to establish even a limited government-run insurance option, a disagreement that threatens to unravel the effort ... In floor speeches yesterday, the last moderate Democrats to sign on contended they were merely agreeing to allow debate on a seminal issue and promised they would demand significant changes before supporting a final bill, particularly the removal of the public insurance option liberal Democrats insist... (Boston Globe)
Broder: Budget-buster... Nov 22, 2009
It read: "President Obama has pledged that health insurance reform will not add to our federal budget deficit over the next decade. Do you think that President Obama will be able to keep his promise or do you think that any health care plan that Congress passes and President Obama signs will add to the federal budget deficit?" ... And will this Congress enact the excise tax on high-premium insurance policies (the so-called Cadillac plans) in Reid's bill. (The Drudge Report)
Tax would hit H1N1 vaccine manufacturers... Nov 22, 2009
My prediction: health insurance rates keep on rising, and this current legislation will be gutted by successive Congresses out of fiscal necessity when the government goes bankrupt. Posted By: big_bear | November 21, 2009 at 11:19 PM. (The Drudge Report)
Scant welcome for refugees in Japan Nov 22, 2009
Asylum seekers in Japan do not qualify for general public assistance or health insurance, although a small amount of money is made available through the foreign ministry to those considered the most needy. Even for the few who qualify, it is less money than Japanese people on welfare receive and is only available for four months, though this can be extended. (BBC News -- Asia-Pacific)
Stores kick off season Nov 22, 2009
State Farm Insurance, Wendy Folmar, open house with refreshments, drawings and door prizes. Three Cute Mamas, open house with refreshments and sidewalk sale. (Brewton Standard, AL)
Voice of the people | Nov. 17 Nov 22, 2009
I do so because it would enable more people to have health insurance. (I have heard estimates of 36 million) It would eliminate or lessen such practices asdenying insurance because of a previous medical condition ... By doing nothing, insurance costs will continue to skyro 00001DDE cket, resulting in even more people uanble to afford insurance coverage. (Herald Online, SC -- Opinion)
Cancer screenings under scrutiny Nov 22, 2009
When asked whether the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists guidelines would affect how health insurance providers cover cervical cancer screenings, Susan Pisano, a spokeswoman for America's Health Insurance Plans, an insurance industry group, said: "It's hard to say for a guideline that's released today.". Health plans look for guidance from a variety of organizations like the ob/gyn group, the American Cancer Society and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force and give more... (CNN)
Cunningham heads up Terrapin Beer Nov 22, 2009
Joe and Joey Costa of Joe Costa & Associates, Inc. recently attended a long term care insurance seminar in Nashville, Tenn. The seminar was sponsored by Phyllis Shelton, one of the top authorities on Long Term Care insurance in the country. (Athens Banner-Herald)
Republican congressmen meet to discuss flaws in Obamas health care reform plan (2) Nov 22, 2009
Republicans believe in increased access to care; making insurance available to those who want it, but cant afford it; reducing costs; and increasing transparency in the system. But I cant vote for a one-size fits all, top-down, government-run plan that basically guarantees that the private insurance system -- that most people like -- is extinct in seven to 10 years ... Thats what happens when the government and insurance companies make too many decisions about your care. (McKinney Courier-Gazette, TX)
Congress considers expanding Cobra subsidy Nov 22, 2009
Unless Congress acts soon, people who lose their jobs will also begin losing the generous federal subsidy for Cobra health insurance premiums starting next month ... Insurance companies would have to go along with that plan ... "I'm starting to look at other options. If I had to do it tomorrow, I'd probably sign up online with another insurance company. I don't want to do it. I like the coverage I have, but when it comes down to it, I can't afford $391.27 a month.". (San Francisco Chronicle -- Business)
Which insurance plan to buy? Nov 22, 2009
Which insurance plan to buy whole life policy or term policy ... Which insurance plan to buy whole life policy or term policy ... Extravagant by nature, Gupta never purchased an insurance plan neither did he make investments in mutual funds or shares. (India Times)
DATCP Board Listens to Roundtable on Dairy Industry (2) Nov 22, 2009
Revenue insurance policies don t work very well but it might be good to look at that idea ... - Look at whether a revenue insurance program could be made to work. (Agri-View, WI)
Call for flood prevention change Nov 22, 2009
" The National Flood Forum, which campaigns on behalf of flood victims, said it has heard from many frustrated homeowners like Mr Lewin, who have expensive work done, only to see their policy premiums and excesses remain the same. Incentives neededMary Dhonau, its chief executive, says it is time for the insurance industry to make concessions to customers who do the right thing: "I urge them to recognize the vast amounts of money that people have put into protecting their own property, and... (BBC News -- Business)
NYT: Sen. Lincoln at heart of debate Nov 22, 2009
Luke Sharrett / The New York TimesI'm thinking about the 450,000 Arkansans who have no health insurance, Sen ... Im thinking about the 450,000 Arkansans who have no health insurance, she said as she lent her support to an initial procedural step in the most closely watched floor speech of the day ... Some Democrats and other observers say they believe Mrs. Lincoln can make a case that her central role in the debate is a positive development in a state where people lack health... (MSNBC -- Politics)
GOP: Health Test Recommendations Could Affect Care Nov 22, 2009
Lisa Murkowski of Alaska: "Those recommendations will be used by the insurance companies as they make a determination as to what they're going to cover.". Democrats said the recommendations had nothing to do with the big health care bill. (ABC News -- Wire)
Comparison of Democratic Health Care Bills Nov 22, 2009
HOW IT'S PAID FOR: Fees on insurance companies, drugmakers, medical device manufacturers ... Excise tax on insurance companies, keyed to premiums paid on health care plans costing more than $8,500 annually for individuals and $23,000 for families ... INSURANCE INDUSTRY RESTRICTIONS: Starting in 2014: no denial of coverage based on pre-existing conditions. (ABC News -- Wire)
COMMENTARY: Health care reform rebuttal Nov 22, 2009
Middle income families and individuals, as well as young people, will be forced to purchase "qualified" medical insurance plans, at an undetermined rate, to satisfy some bureaucratic idea of what a "qualified" plan is ... Anyone under the misguided impression that they will be provided with free health insurance is sadly mistaken (unless you are the poorest, of the poor) ... Make no mistake, these bills are written in a way that will eventually drive the private insurance companies out of the... (Benson San Pedro Valley News Sun, AZ)
Oops! Accident-prone readers recount mishaps Nov 22, 2009
When we reunited, I had to convince the doctor he wasnt homeless and that I actually had health insurance. When identifying the correct leg for surgery the doctor stated, Right outside ankle, identifying kama-sutra tattoo. (MSNBC -- Health)
Insurance at different stages in life Nov 22, 2009
Insurance policies for different stages in life-ET Slide Shows-Features-The Economic Times ... Insurance to meet financial needs at different stages in life ... In the past, the sole purpose of insurance was to cover the risk of financial loss. (India Times)
White House defends Senate health bill Nov 22, 2009
The White House's effort came after Republicans took to the Senate floor during debate to criticize the bill as a bill that costs too much, will increase the deficit and will fail to bring down high insurance premiums ... "Opponents of health insurance reform have spent hours on the Senate floor today attacking the Senate's efforts to provide stability and security for those with insurance, affordable coverage for those without, and lower costs for families, small businesses and the government,"... (TheHill.com)
LETTER: 'Health care, insurance are basic human rights' Nov 22, 2009
Friday, November 20, 2009 9:41 PM CST LETTER: 'Health care, insurance are basic human rights ... If people want health insurance they should get a job and earn it ... Those are just a few of the comments that have appeared on the on-line discussion pages for this paper about the health care/insurance issue. (Mattoon Journal-Gazette, IL)
Viewpoints: New front opens in abortion battle Nov 22, 2009
That helps explain why advocates for reproductive rights weren't prepared for an all-out battle just to allow women to retain their health insurance coverage ... In reality, his amendment goes much further, discouraging private insurance companies from offering coverage for abortions, even if women want to purchase those policies with their own funds ... According to the Alan Guttmacher Institute, which studies reproductive issues, coverage for abortions is commonplace in the private health... (Sacramento Bee -- Opinion)
Dorothy M. Marks Nov 22, 2009
Dorothy worked at Estabrooks Insurance, Rhinelander Medical Group and Friendly Village Nursing Home. A passionate collector of antiques and collectibles, Dorothy ran MoDot Antiques from 1984 to 1996. (Forest Republican, WI)
Leaving the Folds Nov 22, 2009
"We spend ridiculous amounts of time trying to get this surgery approved by insurance companies," says Holland. Only about 25 percent of the cases her department submits get approved. (Yahoo News -- Cosmetic Treatments and Surgery)
Democratic senators stay with Reid so far Nov 22, 2009
Secondly, I believe there is a religious exclusion clause whereby you won t be forced to buy insurance if it somehow conflicts with your beliefs ... Heck, I figure with that kind of money I can buy a insurance co. and issue myself a policy. (Atlanta Journal-Constitution -- Opinion)
What's/Who's new in business Nov 22, 2009
They offer sales, insurance quotes, delivery options and on-water instruction. Hours are by appointment. (Daytona Beach News Journal -- Business)
Reid Health Bill Has Hidden Perks for Chiropractors Nov 22, 2009
and you'll find scores of provisions making winners out of some interest groups and losers of others, from makers of costly biological drugs to insurance company executives ... Less fortunate were well-paid officials of health insurance companies ... The wording eliminates companies' tax deductions for the portion of insurance executives' pay that exceeds $500,000. (Newsmax)
Reps who supported bill deserve our thanks Nov 22, 2009
Rob Wittman failed to support health care reform for his constituents, caving in to pressure from the insurance industry. I believe it is time for our representatives to represent citizens, rather than big corporate dollars. (Fredericksburg.com, VA)
Bond to vote 'no' for health care Nov 22, 2009
Bond also wants to focus on Community Health Services, Medical Liability malpractice reform, which he said could save 100-200 billion, defensive medicine and allow people to cross state lines when purchasing health insurance. Very simply, what people are worried about is the cost of health insurance and the fact that people are uninsured, he said ... Secondly, I encourage competition to allow Americans to buy insurance across state lines and allowing farmers and small business to pool together... (Cameron Observer, MO)
Teachers oppose 'cuts' Nov 22, 2009
What we re asking for is 0 percent pay increase and no increase in their insurance, Reid said ... She said teachers have a cap on their insurance plan, so when rates go up teachers pay out of pocket to make up the difference ... Sara and Jeff Buskerud, who both work at Hillcrest, said they are paying about 300 a month combined for medical insurance. (Coos Bay-North Bend The World, OR)
School district workers pump insurance claims to $5.7 million Nov 22, 2009
School district workers pump insurance claims to $5 ... Published: Wednesday, November 18, 2009 12:48 PM MST The Campbell County School Districts health insurance claims from the past two years have racked up claims totaling $5 ... Excessively high claims from employees have the districts insurance trust, Wyoming School Board Association Insurance Trust, struggling to cover its costs. (Gillette News-Record, WY)
'Factor' Debut, Part 2 Nov 22, 2009
I mean, he says that, look, a lot of Americans can't afford health insurance, the insurance companies are out of control, I've got to get them under control. That's why I'm doing what I'm doing. (Fox News)
New Cancer Guidelines Say to Start Mammograms at 50, Not 40 Nov 22, 2009
The new guidelines were issued by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, whose stance influences coverage of screening tests by Medicare and many insurance companies. But Susan Pisano, a spokeswoman for America's Health Insurance Plans, an industry group, said insurance coverage isn't likely to change because of the new guidelines ... She suggested that cutting health care costs may have played a role in the decision, but Petitti said the task force does not consider cost or insurance in its... (Fox News)
The Parenting Place Nov 22, 2009
For the clothes, house, etc that they have--plus the dental, medical, toys, clothes for 8 kids(I can't imagine they have health insurance, right. who knows. (Auburn Citizen, NY)
10 scary myths about the law Nov 22, 2009
Myth 8: Car insurance won't cover you if someone other than your spouse or a family member is driving your car. Fact: Most insurance policies cover the car owner in these circumstances ... Check with your insurance provider to see if your policy includes this provision, and, if it doesn't, ask if you can add it. (Lake City Reporter, FL)
Read the story Nov 22, 2009
Will these new guidelines give insurance companies an excuse to ration care. What are Medicare and the insurance industry saying about their plans to pay for mammography. (CBS News -- Evening News)
Inside Alaska business Nov 22, 2009
Jennifer Bundy-Cobb from the Wilson Agency; Jeff Davis from Blue Cross Blue Shield; Linda Hall, director of the State of Alaska Division of Insurance; and Robert Gootee, president of ODS Alaska, will discuss current trends of insurance costs and how the industry establishes these prices, and share thoughts on health care reform. RSVP, 272-2401 or www. (Anchorage Daily News)
Sherry Johnston, Levi's mother, is sentenced to 3 years Nov 22, 2009
In a phone interview after the sentencing, Butler called his client "a poster child for health care reform." He said his client was selling some of the drugs to get money to pay for other pain medications that her insurance company was cutting her off from. He would not identify her insurance company. (Anchorage Daily News)
Free screenings! Nov 22, 2009
Care is provided for all socioeconomic groups, for those who have health insurance or are uninsured. Spanish, Haitian Creole and English languages are spoken. (The Palm Beach Post)
Hill Democrats Critical Of Bush's Budget Plan Nov 22, 2009
The lawmakers focused on Bush's proposal to increase funding for the state-federal Children's Health Insurance Program by $4 ... "Seven out of 10 uninsured children qualify for either Medicaid or the State Children's Health Insurance Program but are not yet enrolled. Yet, the president instead makes cuts in the program, ensuring that we will not reach those children, and that more children and their parents will become uninsured," Dingell said. (Yahoo News -- U.S. Budget)
Doctors warn against reform; protest met with protesters Nov 22, 2009
Dr. Kent Katz, another speaker at the rally, disputed the high numbers -- 40-plus-million -- people who are said to be without health insurance, but acknowledged the pain of those without it. "If you're in the 90 percent with health insurance, you're OK," Katz said ... But the proposals before Congress are expected to cost several trillion dollars, which will lead to higher taxes and substantial cuts in Medicare -- the federal health insurance plan for those 65 and older -- that will make health... (Casper Star-Tribune, WY)
Stop the extra spending Nov 22, 2009
Another thing I did read is that, if you do not get/buy insurance, you can be fined and/or put in jail ... I also read that you will have to pay a certain amount out of your pocket before the government picks up the rest and, if you have a very good plan, you will be taxed 45 percent to offset the ones that cannot or do not pay for insurance. (Longview Daily News, WA)
U.S. Senate votes on health care reform bill Nov 22, 2009
According to the 2,074- page bill unveiled on Wednesday, the overhaul health care reform bill would expand health insurance coverage to 30 million more Americans ... The bill would also cease practices including denying coverage to individuals with pre-existing conditions, and raise Medicare payroll taxes for the wealthiest Americans to help pay for the social insurance program for the elderly ... Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid told a press conference that the overhaul health care reform bill... (Xinhuanet, China)
CRACKS SHOW IN DEM CAUCUS -- COULD SINK BILL... Nov 22, 2009
One key provision for a government-run insurance plan that would allow states to opt-out of coverage effectively died in the Senate chamber Saturday, as the last two Democratic holdouts demanded changes to the bill ... Congrats, if Government Run Healthcare is Good enough for our Sailors Soldiers, Airmen, and Marines, it is without question good enough for those with no insurance ... The key elements of this health care reform bill, I repeat: reduces short-and-long term debt, expands coverage,... (The Drudge Report)
Medicare conference combats confusion over plans Nov 22, 2009
Baker, the Medicare and health insurance coordinator for PCOA, and Patricia Dorgan, director of services for the group, spoke at the 24th Annual Medicare Update Conference ... Open enrollment for 2010 for Medicare, the national health insurance program for those 65 and older, runs through Dec. 31 ... To illustrate part of the problem, Baker said, 58 Medicare Advantage (Medicare replacement) plans sold by insurance companies were available last year in Pima County; 36 are available this year,... (Green Valley News & Sun, AZ)
Health reform costs arm and a leg Nov 22, 2009
Are you ready for still-higher health-care costs, higher taxes and more expensive private health insurance ... What's in store for your tax and private-insurance costs depends on your place in life ... And insurance costs will hinge on the effectiveness of an "individual mandate" that requires everyone to buy insurance to spread risk and costs. (Florida Today)
5 comments Nov 22, 2009
We know Obama did say that Democrats should "answer the call of history," even though America has gotten along pretty well without government-run health insurance for some 220 years ... They were speaking at a time when Gallup tells us that only 47 percent of Americans think providing health insurance is a government responsibility, down from 69 percent just two years ago. (Human Events Online)
'New Moon' Takes Record $72.7M Box Office Bite Nov 22, 2009
Get car insurance quotes from all the major carriers and save time an money in the process ... InsuranceClick to Expand ... Simply enter your zip code and get great deals on your car insurance from the top companies. (Click2Houston, TX)
3-alarm fire breaks out on Atlantic City boardwalk... Nov 22, 2009
Use to call it (JEWISH LIGHTING) Motels & Hotels could get away with it called lost revenue, others were at the mercy of corupt insurance agencies, pay to play in the World Favorite Play Ground Use to be the call letters of a radio station (WFPG 1450 AM). Rement of the 40s, 50s & 60s Oh my. (The Drudge Report)
1st Senate vote looms on health legislation Nov 22, 2009
Most everyone would be required to purchase insurance under Reid's legislation, and billions in new taxes would be levied on insurers and high-income Americans to help extend coverage to 30 million uninsured. Insurance companies would no longer be allowed to deny coverage to people with medical conditions or drop coverage when someone gets sick ... "This 2,000-page bill will drive up the cost of health care insurance and medical care, not down," Sen. (KGW Northwest NewsChannel 8, OR -- Business)
Lloyd's Appeals Ruling on Legal Costs Tied to Colombian Drug Eradication Nov 22, 2009
The Lloyds underwriters, who wrote insurance for as it sprayed drug crops from the air starting in 2000, said in their Nov. 19 appeal that coverage was for aircraft hazards and doesnt extend to chemical exposure claims ... The court misapprehended the very nature of the insurance procured through the policies: aviation liability insurance, the appeal said ... Companies seek aviation liability insurance to cover the risk of injuries to aircraft and persons aboard, not... (Bloomberg -- Latin America)
Breast cancer activists are walking the walk... Talk about hot pink. A strong undercurrent of anger ran beneath the sea of symbolic pink gear gracing thousands of people yesterday, on Day ... Nov 22, 2009
Its too early to tell what effect the change will have on insurance companies, doctors and policymakers, but panelists said the goal was to reduce harm from potential overtreatment and additional tests such as biopsies. This is how survivors, walkers, volunteers and nurses described the expert panels recommendations: Obscene. (San Diego Union-Tribune)
Senate Health Bill Faces Crucial Vote Nov 22, 2009
"Over the past many years and in particular the last six months, I have heard from people all across Louisiana that their insurance premium costs are simply too high and continue to rise without warning, threatening the financial stability of their families and their businesses," Landrieu said ... Lincoln also said she would support the continued debate, even though she said she does not support legislation with a government-back insurance plan ... "The reason we are having this vote," Lincoln... (CBS News)
Senate Begins Debate Next Month on $848 Billion U.S. Health-Care Overhaul Nov 22, 2009
The $848 billion, 10-year plan would make the biggest changes to the U.S. health-care system since the Medicare insurance program for the elderly was created in 1965 ... White House spokesman said in a statement the vote brings us one step closer to ending insurance company abuses, reining in spiraling health-care costs, providing stability and security to those with health insurance, and extending quality health coverage to those who lack it ... It would set up online insurance-purchasing... (Bloomberg -- US)
Senate Democrats vote to bring health bill to floor for debate Nov 22, 2009
"The Senate's vote tonight to move forward with health insurance reform legislation marks a critical step in the march to better, fairer and more reasonably priced health care for Americans," said party chair Brian Schatz. "With this action, the Senate is demonstrating that it has the 60 votes it needs to make reform happen."The bill would prohibit some of the insurance industry's worst practices and it includes a public health insurance option ... "The House passed a $1 trillion health bill two... (Honolulu Advertiser)
Sound off! 11/18/09 Nov 22, 2009
I had to get supplemental health insurance and I have had three increases in that in this past year. I just got a letter saying it was going to increase on Jan. 1 ; That s run by private insurance and I wonder where it is going to stop ... If private insurance can t run the business, then the government does need to step in. (Roanoke Rapids Daily Herald, NC)
We're not No. 1 Nov 22, 2009
These senators are doing the bidding of the health care insurance companies ... John Kerry has received $8,994,077, more than all the above combined, but is not marching to the health insurance industrys beat. (Fresno Bee -- Opinion)
Senate to debate health Nov 22, 2009
Life Insurance Quote ... Save on your insurance ... "Tonight's historic vote brings us one step closer to ending insurance company abuses, reining in spiraling health care costs, providing stability and security to those with health insurance, and extending quality health coverage to those who lack it," said White House spokesman Robert Gibbs. (iAfrica.com)
Historic health care bill nears key Senate vote Nov 22, 2009
At a 10-year cost approaching 1 trillion, the measure is designed to extend coverage to roughly 31 million who lack it, crack down on insurance company practices that deny benefits, and curtail the growth of spending on medical care nationally ... The legislation would require most Americans to carry insurance, and large firms would incur large costs if they did not provide it to their workforce ... Among the most controversial is a requirement for the government to sell insurance in competition... (Roanoke Rapids Daily Herald, NC)
Sewer rates may increase 11 percent in Keokuk next year Nov 22, 2009
Mayor David Gudgel said the citys insurance carrier has recommended that the boat clubs liability insurance be increased from $300,000 to $1 million once construction is finished. We need to know exactly where you want these boundaries (for the new facility), Gudgel told Faris. (Keokuk Daily Gate City, IO)
Sicko will be part of colleges health care debate Monday Nov 22, 2009
The documentary weighs the plight of the uninsured and the insured who must deal with abuse from insurance companies against the record-breaking profits of the pharmaceutical industry. Tags. (Coos Bay-North Bend The World, OR)
Toy gun robbers foiled Nov 21, 2009
Life Insurance Quote ... Save on your insurance ... They tried to flee on foot but two workers from an agricultural insurance company, who were nearby, raced after them. (iAfrica.com)
Have you had the swine flu? Nov 21, 2009
My advice, if you have insurance and a good doctor, don t hesitate to use them. It s that simple. (Atlanta Journal-Constitution -- Living)
