Health Connector officials have spent thousands of hours and millions of dollars preparing a new health insurance exchange website for the launch of open enrollment on Nov. 15. But as technically savvy as the state has become, paper applications aren’t yet a thing of the past. As part of a campaign to re-enroll 450,000 people in state health insurance, approximately 115,000 to 150,000 households that currently have temporary Medicaid will be sent paper applications. “While we are confident…
Reported by bizjournals 1 hour ago.
Paper applications still part of state health insurance sign-up
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WEDI Announces Survey Results from Unique Health Plan Identifier (HPID) Industry Poll
Letter to HHS Secretary summarizes WEDI’s recommendations based on feedback from providers, health plans, self-insured plans, vendors and clearinghouses.
RESTON, Va. (PRWEB) September 22, 2014
The Workgroup for Electronic Data Interchange (WEDI), the nation’s leading nonprofit authority on the use of health IT to create efficiencies in healthcare information exchange, announced findings from its recent industry survey on the use of the unique Health Plan Identifier (HPID) within electronic transactions adopted under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). WEDI conducted the survey from August 20 to September 5, which included 262 respondents across multiple stakeholders, including health plans, self‐insured health plans, providers, third‐party administrators, clearinghouses and software vendors.
The full survey results can be viewed online and summarized through WEDI’s September 19 letter to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Some significant findings from the survey, include:· Only 15 percent of all stakeholder respondents find any value in the use of the HPID within transactions.
· Only 24 percent of respondents have no concerns about implementing HPID concurrent with other mandates.
· A greater degree of granularity will impact 51 percent of respondent implementations, while 39 percent are not able to even determine what the impact will be.
· HPID use within transactions will be the same complexity or more complex than implementation of the National Provider Identifier (NPI) for 55 percent of respondents.
· Only 30 percent of respondents, other than providers, indicated the cost to implement HPID would be less than $500,000, while 33 percent are not even able to determine a cost estimate at this time.
· Only 19 percent of providers indicated the cost to implement would be less than $50,000, and another 56 percent are not able to determine a cost estimate at this time.
· Only 11 percent of respondents reported privacy and security risks would be less than current risks under HIPAA.
“Since 2010, WEDI has been at the forefront of discussions with healthcare industry stakeholders on HPID and how it will impact their businesses and the overall healthcare environment,” said WEDI President and CEO Devin Jopp, Ed.D. “The findings of this latest survey really indicate that the industry has still not seen the value of placing HPID in the HIPAA transactions. This supports our recommendations to CMS from October 2013 that CMS require HPID enumeration but modify the rule to make HPIDs not used in transactions.”
About WEDI
The Workgroup for Electronic Data Interchange (WEDI) is the leading authority on the use of health IT to improve healthcare information exchange in order to enhance the quality of care, improve efficiency, and reduce costs of our nation’s healthcare system. WEDI was formed in 1991 by the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) and was designated in the 1996 HIPAA legislation as an advisor to HHS. WEDI’s membership includes a broad coalition of organizations, including: hospitals, providers, health plans, vendors, government agencies, consumers, not-for-profit organizations, and standards development organizations. To learn more, visit http://www.wedi.org and connect with us on Twitter and LinkedIn. Reported by PRWeb 1 hour ago.
RESTON, Va. (PRWEB) September 22, 2014
The Workgroup for Electronic Data Interchange (WEDI), the nation’s leading nonprofit authority on the use of health IT to create efficiencies in healthcare information exchange, announced findings from its recent industry survey on the use of the unique Health Plan Identifier (HPID) within electronic transactions adopted under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). WEDI conducted the survey from August 20 to September 5, which included 262 respondents across multiple stakeholders, including health plans, self‐insured health plans, providers, third‐party administrators, clearinghouses and software vendors.
The full survey results can be viewed online and summarized through WEDI’s September 19 letter to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Some significant findings from the survey, include:· Only 15 percent of all stakeholder respondents find any value in the use of the HPID within transactions.
· Only 24 percent of respondents have no concerns about implementing HPID concurrent with other mandates.
· A greater degree of granularity will impact 51 percent of respondent implementations, while 39 percent are not able to even determine what the impact will be.
· HPID use within transactions will be the same complexity or more complex than implementation of the National Provider Identifier (NPI) for 55 percent of respondents.
· Only 30 percent of respondents, other than providers, indicated the cost to implement HPID would be less than $500,000, while 33 percent are not even able to determine a cost estimate at this time.
· Only 19 percent of providers indicated the cost to implement would be less than $50,000, and another 56 percent are not able to determine a cost estimate at this time.
· Only 11 percent of respondents reported privacy and security risks would be less than current risks under HIPAA.
“Since 2010, WEDI has been at the forefront of discussions with healthcare industry stakeholders on HPID and how it will impact their businesses and the overall healthcare environment,” said WEDI President and CEO Devin Jopp, Ed.D. “The findings of this latest survey really indicate that the industry has still not seen the value of placing HPID in the HIPAA transactions. This supports our recommendations to CMS from October 2013 that CMS require HPID enumeration but modify the rule to make HPIDs not used in transactions.”
About WEDI
The Workgroup for Electronic Data Interchange (WEDI) is the leading authority on the use of health IT to improve healthcare information exchange in order to enhance the quality of care, improve efficiency, and reduce costs of our nation’s healthcare system. WEDI was formed in 1991 by the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) and was designated in the 1996 HIPAA legislation as an advisor to HHS. WEDI’s membership includes a broad coalition of organizations, including: hospitals, providers, health plans, vendors, government agencies, consumers, not-for-profit organizations, and standards development organizations. To learn more, visit http://www.wedi.org and connect with us on Twitter and LinkedIn. Reported by PRWeb 1 hour ago.
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Fitch Releases U.S. Health Insurance Credit Metrics Update
CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Fitch Ratings has published a new report detailing key credit metrics of nine-publicly-traded U.S. health insurance and managed care companies that are either rated or followed by Fitch: Aetna, Inc., Centene Corp., Cigna Corp., Health Net Inc., Humana, Inc., Molina Health Care Inc. UnitedHealth Group, Incorporated, WellCare Health Plans, Inc. and WellPoint, Inc. The report is meant to be used as a desktop guide, providing financial data and rankings, key credit strengt
Reported by Business Wire 21 minutes ago.
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Colorado regulators approve health insurance premiums 1 percent higher
State regulators have approved more than 1,000 health insurance plans offered by 20 carriers for 2015 that, on average, will increase premiums 1.
Reported by Denver Post 8 minutes ago.
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'Drive-By Doctoring' Pushes Up Health Care Costs, Without Patient Consent
'Drive-By Doctoring' Pushes Up Health Care Costs, Without Patient Consent'Drive-By Doctoring' Pushes Up Health Care Costs, Without Patient Consent
Health
Nation
World
Money Bag
Has Been Optimized
Rising medical costs are often blamed on patient's lawsuits or the inability of health insurance companies to sell coverage plans across state lines.
However, The New York Times recently reported on a practice called "drive-by doctoring," when medical "assistants, consultants and other hospital employees are charging patients or their insurers hefty fees. They may be called in when the need for them is questionable. And patients usually do not realize they have been involved or are charging until the bill arrives."
In many of these cases, the patient never consents to be treated by additional medical personnel, who may be out-of-network for the patient's insurance, which means a massive increase in cost for the patient.
“The notion is you can make end runs around price controls by increasing the number of things you do and bill for,” Dr. Darshak Sanghavi, a former health policy expert at the Brookings Institution, told The New York Times.
The surprise charges have led to complaints to state health insurance commissioners, but the health care industry is lobbying hard to keep "drive-by doctoring" legal, which drives up health care costs.
Another billing trick is when a hospital itemizes services that used to be included basic hospital care. Also, several ER's these days are employed by out-of-network physicians who bill separately.
The National Journal reported on a 2011 study by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) that found America spends far more than any other country for health care, but Americans receive far less actual health care.
The average American was spending $8,000 a year in health care in 2011 compared to the second ranked country, Norway, which spent less than $5,500 per person for its universal health care, which covers everything.
“The U.S. is just this astonishing outlier compared to everyone else,” Mark Pearson, head of the social policy division of the OECD, told The National Journal.
According to the OECD, medications and hospital care cost 60 percent more in the U.S. compared to 34 other countries in 2011.
Sources: The National Journal, The New York Times (Image Credit: Barbara Lock)
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OV in Depth: Reported by Opposing Views 3 minutes ago.
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Annual Survey of Americans' Views on Health Care and the ACA Finds Nearly Half of Remaining Uninsured are Unaware of the Individual Mandate or of the Exchanges
LOS ANGELES, Sept. 23, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- While the percentage of Americans without health insurance has fallen from 22 to 15 percent over the past 11 months, a new Harris Poll survey conducted on behalf of the national non-profit Transamerica Center for Health Studies (TCHS) found that...
Reported by PR Newswire 10 hours ago.
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Twelve Perilous Pets in the Running for the Most Unusual Pet Insurance Claim of the Year
Voting is Open Through Sept. 30 to Decide Winner of 6th Annual VPI Hambone Award
Brea, California (PRWEB) September 23, 2014
After reviewing more than one million pet insurance claims received over the past year, Veterinary Pet Insurance Co. (VPI) has nominated 12 worthy candidates for the 2014 VPI Hambone Award. Each year VPI, the nation’s first and largest provider of pet health insurance, and member of the Nationwide Insurance family of companies, searches through its database of more than 500,000 insured pets to honor the most “Unusual Claim of the Year.” The winner will be decided by a public vote Sept. 16 - 30 at http://www.vpihamboneaward.com.
In addition, the animal hospital that treated this year’s VPI Hambone Award winner will receive a $10,000 VPI-funded award through the Veterinary Care Foundation to treat pets whose owners could not otherwise afford treatment.
This year’s nominees include a daring dachshund that survived a bear attack; a Labrador retriever that faced grave turmoil after getting tangled with a tractor; a cocker spaniel that survived a perilous two-story plunge; and a curious cat that required surgery to have a Nerf dart removed from its intestines. All nominated pets have made full recoveries and received VPI insurance reimbursements for eligible treatment expenses. Below are brief summaries of the 12 unusual claims nominated for the 2014 VPI Hambone Award. For a more detailed account of each claim, photos of the nominees, or to vote, visit http://www.vpihamboneaward.com.
VPI Hambone Award Nominees:· Pierre the French bulldog (Chicago, Ill.). Pierre had too much fun at a Fourth of July party, nearly drowning and swallowing an entire package of cookie dough within a couple hours. Pierre was taken to the veterinarian after collapsing and was treated for shock and excessive gas.
· Louie the mixed breed (Louisville, Ky.). Louie’s curious appetite got the best of him when he went on an eating rampage and consumed a diaper, a tube of diaper rash cream, a bottle of baby lotion, and a children’s book. Louie was rushed to the hospital and treated for gastric foreign object ingestion.
· Heidi Elizabeth the cocker spaniel (Cumberland, R.I.). Heidi Elizabeth’s sightseeing efforts proved costly after she fell through a screen and took a two-story plunge. Heidi Elizabeth was examined for internal and external injuries and was treated for soft tissue trauma.
· Roxy the German shepherd (Gardena, Calif.). Roxy’s rambunctious rough-housing led to some less than playful pain after she ran into and shattered a sliding glass door. The bloodied Roxy was rushed to the hospital and treated for several lacerations.
· Cali the golden retriever (Rocklin, Calif.). Cali’s eyes proved bigger than her stomach after she devoured five pounds of raw marinating meat and an entire loaf of bread. The London broil led to tummy turmoil for Cali and she was taken to the veterinarian to induce vomiting.
· Henry the Labrador retriever (San Diego, Calif.). Henry’s thrill seeking nature landed him in the hospital after he jumped off a 20 ft. deck and landed on a parked car. The Evel Knievel impersonator underwent X-rays, but only suffered bruising and a broken nail.
· Jack the Jack Russell terrier (Ashburn, Va.). Jack’s small size got him in trouble with the food chain after he was snatched up and carried away by a large Snowy Owl. Jack was rushed to the hospital with severe internal and external injuries, but has made a full recovery.
· Lewes the cat (Middletown, Del.). Lewes’ curiosity almost got the best of him, when a game of feline fetch went terribly wrong after Lewes ingested a Nerf dart. After refusing to eat and becoming quite ill, Lewes was taken to the emergency animal hospital to have the dart surgically removed from his intestines.
· Max the dachshund (Laughlintown, Pa.). Max survived a terrible bear scare with the help of his pet parent and her trusty shovel. After being mauled by the bear Max was rushed to the hospital where he recovered from multiple lacerations and puncture wounds.
· Leaf the Parson Russell terrier (New York, N.Y). Leaf’s delightful days of frolicking in the park came to an uncomfortable halt when the pup got a twig stuck deep in her nasal cavity. After showing signs of abnormal breathing, Leaf was taken to the veterinarian where the stick had to be removed using scopes through her nose.
· Kya the goldendoodle (Las Vegas, Nev.). Kya’s playful puppy instincts took a terrible turn after an innocent game of tug-of-war led to a mangled muzzle. When a patio chair tipped over on the pup’s snout, Kya was left with a severely broken jaw and had to be rushed to the emergency hospital to undergo surgery.
· Charlie the Labrador retriever (Indianapolis, Ind.). Charlie is no stranger to heavy equipment being a farm dog, but after a tragedy involving a tractor, Charlie was on the brink of death. After slipping under a tractor disc, Charlie required two life saving surgeries at one of the top veterinary hospitals in the U.S.
Originally named after a dog that ate an entire Thanksgiving ham while stuck in a refrigerator, the annual VPI Hambone Award has since been given to the most bizarre medical claim each year since 2009. Past winners include Ellie, a Labrador retriever that gobbled up an entire beehive and its thousands of inhabitants; Lulu, a hungry bulldog that swallowed 15 baby pacifiers, a bottle cap and piece of a basketball; Harley, a pug that ate and subsequently passed, more than 100 rocks; Peanut, a dachshund-terrier mix that survived a fierce squabble with a skunk; and Winnie, a mixed breed dog that swallowed two pounds of uncooked onion rings.
“The VPI Hambone Award is a yearly reminder of the unforeseeable situations that can endanger our pets,” said Carol McConnell, DVM, MBA, vice president and chief veterinary medical officer for VPI. “More importantly, these stories show us the importance of taking the necessary precautions and seeking veterinary treatment when an animal shows signs of distress. These pets all made remarkable recoveries because of the quick actions of their pet parents. We are happy to see them all back enjoying their lives.”
About VPI Hambone Award
The VPI Hambone Award is named in honor of a VPI-insured dog that got stuck in a refrigerator and ate an entire Thanksgiving ham while waiting for someone to rescue him. The dog was eventually found, with a licked-clean ham bone and a mild case of hypothermia. This quirky title was first awarded in 2009 to Lulu, a hungry English bulldog who swallowed 15 baby pacifiers, a bottle cap and a piece of a basketball. The VPI Hambone Award and these unusual pet insurance claims have since helped educate the public about the unexpected mishaps that can affect household pets. Stories and pictures of the VPI Hambone Award nominees are available at VPIHamboneAward.com.
About Veterinary Pet Insurance
With more than 500,000 pets insured nationwide, Veterinary Pet Insurance Co./DVM Insurance Agency (VPI) is a member of the Nationwide Insurance family of companies and is the first and largest pet health insurance company in the United States. Since 1982, VPI has helped provide pet owners with peace of mind and is committed to being the trusted choice of America’s pet lovers.
VPI Pet Insurance plans cover dogs, cats, birds and exotic pets for multiple medical problems and conditions relating to accidents, illnesses and injuries. Wellness coverage and routine care is available for an additional premium. Medical plans are available in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Additionally, one in three Fortune 500 companies offers VPI Pet Insurance as an employee benefit. Policies are offered and administered by Veterinary Pet Insurance Company in California and DVM Insurance Agency in all other states. Underwritten by Veterinary Pet Insurance Company (CA), Brea, CA, an A.M. Best A rated company (2012); National Casualty Company (all other states), Madison, WI, an A.M. Best A+ rated company (2012). Pet owners can find VPI Pet Insurance on Facebook or follow @VPI on Twitter and LinkedIn. For more information about VPI Pet Insurance, call 866-VET-4VPI (866-838-4874) or visit vets.petinsurance.com. Reported by PRWeb 8 hours ago.
Brea, California (PRWEB) September 23, 2014
After reviewing more than one million pet insurance claims received over the past year, Veterinary Pet Insurance Co. (VPI) has nominated 12 worthy candidates for the 2014 VPI Hambone Award. Each year VPI, the nation’s first and largest provider of pet health insurance, and member of the Nationwide Insurance family of companies, searches through its database of more than 500,000 insured pets to honor the most “Unusual Claim of the Year.” The winner will be decided by a public vote Sept. 16 - 30 at http://www.vpihamboneaward.com.
In addition, the animal hospital that treated this year’s VPI Hambone Award winner will receive a $10,000 VPI-funded award through the Veterinary Care Foundation to treat pets whose owners could not otherwise afford treatment.
This year’s nominees include a daring dachshund that survived a bear attack; a Labrador retriever that faced grave turmoil after getting tangled with a tractor; a cocker spaniel that survived a perilous two-story plunge; and a curious cat that required surgery to have a Nerf dart removed from its intestines. All nominated pets have made full recoveries and received VPI insurance reimbursements for eligible treatment expenses. Below are brief summaries of the 12 unusual claims nominated for the 2014 VPI Hambone Award. For a more detailed account of each claim, photos of the nominees, or to vote, visit http://www.vpihamboneaward.com.
VPI Hambone Award Nominees:· Pierre the French bulldog (Chicago, Ill.). Pierre had too much fun at a Fourth of July party, nearly drowning and swallowing an entire package of cookie dough within a couple hours. Pierre was taken to the veterinarian after collapsing and was treated for shock and excessive gas.
· Louie the mixed breed (Louisville, Ky.). Louie’s curious appetite got the best of him when he went on an eating rampage and consumed a diaper, a tube of diaper rash cream, a bottle of baby lotion, and a children’s book. Louie was rushed to the hospital and treated for gastric foreign object ingestion.
· Heidi Elizabeth the cocker spaniel (Cumberland, R.I.). Heidi Elizabeth’s sightseeing efforts proved costly after she fell through a screen and took a two-story plunge. Heidi Elizabeth was examined for internal and external injuries and was treated for soft tissue trauma.
· Roxy the German shepherd (Gardena, Calif.). Roxy’s rambunctious rough-housing led to some less than playful pain after she ran into and shattered a sliding glass door. The bloodied Roxy was rushed to the hospital and treated for several lacerations.
· Cali the golden retriever (Rocklin, Calif.). Cali’s eyes proved bigger than her stomach after she devoured five pounds of raw marinating meat and an entire loaf of bread. The London broil led to tummy turmoil for Cali and she was taken to the veterinarian to induce vomiting.
· Henry the Labrador retriever (San Diego, Calif.). Henry’s thrill seeking nature landed him in the hospital after he jumped off a 20 ft. deck and landed on a parked car. The Evel Knievel impersonator underwent X-rays, but only suffered bruising and a broken nail.
· Jack the Jack Russell terrier (Ashburn, Va.). Jack’s small size got him in trouble with the food chain after he was snatched up and carried away by a large Snowy Owl. Jack was rushed to the hospital with severe internal and external injuries, but has made a full recovery.
· Lewes the cat (Middletown, Del.). Lewes’ curiosity almost got the best of him, when a game of feline fetch went terribly wrong after Lewes ingested a Nerf dart. After refusing to eat and becoming quite ill, Lewes was taken to the emergency animal hospital to have the dart surgically removed from his intestines.
· Max the dachshund (Laughlintown, Pa.). Max survived a terrible bear scare with the help of his pet parent and her trusty shovel. After being mauled by the bear Max was rushed to the hospital where he recovered from multiple lacerations and puncture wounds.
· Leaf the Parson Russell terrier (New York, N.Y). Leaf’s delightful days of frolicking in the park came to an uncomfortable halt when the pup got a twig stuck deep in her nasal cavity. After showing signs of abnormal breathing, Leaf was taken to the veterinarian where the stick had to be removed using scopes through her nose.
· Kya the goldendoodle (Las Vegas, Nev.). Kya’s playful puppy instincts took a terrible turn after an innocent game of tug-of-war led to a mangled muzzle. When a patio chair tipped over on the pup’s snout, Kya was left with a severely broken jaw and had to be rushed to the emergency hospital to undergo surgery.
· Charlie the Labrador retriever (Indianapolis, Ind.). Charlie is no stranger to heavy equipment being a farm dog, but after a tragedy involving a tractor, Charlie was on the brink of death. After slipping under a tractor disc, Charlie required two life saving surgeries at one of the top veterinary hospitals in the U.S.
Originally named after a dog that ate an entire Thanksgiving ham while stuck in a refrigerator, the annual VPI Hambone Award has since been given to the most bizarre medical claim each year since 2009. Past winners include Ellie, a Labrador retriever that gobbled up an entire beehive and its thousands of inhabitants; Lulu, a hungry bulldog that swallowed 15 baby pacifiers, a bottle cap and piece of a basketball; Harley, a pug that ate and subsequently passed, more than 100 rocks; Peanut, a dachshund-terrier mix that survived a fierce squabble with a skunk; and Winnie, a mixed breed dog that swallowed two pounds of uncooked onion rings.
“The VPI Hambone Award is a yearly reminder of the unforeseeable situations that can endanger our pets,” said Carol McConnell, DVM, MBA, vice president and chief veterinary medical officer for VPI. “More importantly, these stories show us the importance of taking the necessary precautions and seeking veterinary treatment when an animal shows signs of distress. These pets all made remarkable recoveries because of the quick actions of their pet parents. We are happy to see them all back enjoying their lives.”
About VPI Hambone Award
The VPI Hambone Award is named in honor of a VPI-insured dog that got stuck in a refrigerator and ate an entire Thanksgiving ham while waiting for someone to rescue him. The dog was eventually found, with a licked-clean ham bone and a mild case of hypothermia. This quirky title was first awarded in 2009 to Lulu, a hungry English bulldog who swallowed 15 baby pacifiers, a bottle cap and a piece of a basketball. The VPI Hambone Award and these unusual pet insurance claims have since helped educate the public about the unexpected mishaps that can affect household pets. Stories and pictures of the VPI Hambone Award nominees are available at VPIHamboneAward.com.
About Veterinary Pet Insurance
With more than 500,000 pets insured nationwide, Veterinary Pet Insurance Co./DVM Insurance Agency (VPI) is a member of the Nationwide Insurance family of companies and is the first and largest pet health insurance company in the United States. Since 1982, VPI has helped provide pet owners with peace of mind and is committed to being the trusted choice of America’s pet lovers.
VPI Pet Insurance plans cover dogs, cats, birds and exotic pets for multiple medical problems and conditions relating to accidents, illnesses and injuries. Wellness coverage and routine care is available for an additional premium. Medical plans are available in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Additionally, one in three Fortune 500 companies offers VPI Pet Insurance as an employee benefit. Policies are offered and administered by Veterinary Pet Insurance Company in California and DVM Insurance Agency in all other states. Underwritten by Veterinary Pet Insurance Company (CA), Brea, CA, an A.M. Best A rated company (2012); National Casualty Company (all other states), Madison, WI, an A.M. Best A+ rated company (2012). Pet owners can find VPI Pet Insurance on Facebook or follow @VPI on Twitter and LinkedIn. For more information about VPI Pet Insurance, call 866-VET-4VPI (866-838-4874) or visit vets.petinsurance.com. Reported by PRWeb 8 hours ago.
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Insurance Commissioner: Insurers largely responsible for slow cost growth
Colorado insurance premiums are going up less than 2 percent on average next year in large part because insurance companies — a group long criticized for raising the costs of health care — have been able to force hospitals and physician groups to lower their reimbursement rates, the state’s insurance commissioner said Monday. Commissioner Marguerite Salazar announced that the Colorado Division of Insurance has approved rates from 1,072 health insurance plans offered by 20 carriers and that…
Reported by bizjournals 8 hours ago.
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Obamacare website plagued by ‘critical flaw’
The government's own watchdogs tried to hack into HealthCare.gov earlier this year and found what they termed a critical vulnerability - but also came away with respect for some of the health insurance site's security features.
Reported by NY Daily News 1 hour ago.
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Affordable Care Act’s Year Two Open Enrollment Period Brings a New Round of Questions for Consumers, Employers
The Texas Association of Health Underwriters shares helpful information on critical dates, frequently asked questions, potential fines and purchasing assistance for the Affordable Care Act
Austin, Texas (PRWEB) September 23, 2014
While year two of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) may be absent the computer glitches and confusion that reigned in year one, consumers will face uncertainty about the process and questions regarding what many believe is the most important purchase they will make during the year. For some, the approaching open enrollment period may present the opportunity to change the choices they made, good or bad, about their coverage in year one. For individuals that didn’t purchase coverage and many employers, unfamiliarity with the new law will raise questions about coverage options and requirements that must be now confronted.
Year two of open enrollment begins on November 15, 2014, and continues through February 15, 2015. You must enroll by December 15, 2014, in order for your coverage to be effective January 1, 2015. If you purchased coverage for 2014 and you want to change your insurance plan for 2015, you must also enroll in the new plan by December 15, 2014, for it to be effective January 1, 2015.
Because there is no uniform renewal process, the steps to renew may vary among insurers. This could create confusion with canceling coverage from one company in order to select a plan with another.
If coverage is not purchased during open enrollment, consumers will be unable to purchase an ACA-compliant plan until the next enrollment period in late 2015 unless they experience a “qualifying event,” such as a divorce, marriage or change in job status that results in a loss of coverage.
“Twelve months into this process, consumers have had a chance to reflect on the decisions they made regarding their coverage for 2014,” said Jacqueline St. Hilaire, president of the Texas Association of Health Underwriters. “Many found out for the first time that they are not able to purchase ACA-compliant coverage beyond the open enrollment period. Many discovered that their coverage required them to pay higher deductibles than they had anticipated or that their doctor wasn’t in-network. Many are now accepting the fact that they could face increasing fines without coverage.”
According to St. Hilaire, questions about the process for renewal or cancellation, uncertainty about the enrollment timeline, and confusion about the transitional period allowing consumers to maintain noncompliant plans are among the growing questions being asked by consumers as they enter year two of life with a federal health coverage mandate.
St. Hilaire added, “Until last year, a very high percentage of individuals have never had to make choices about deductibles, co-pays and levels of coverage. Many now realize the importance of taking the time to closely review their options and to seek guidance in order to make the right choices for their families, budgets and their future.”
An Aflac study of the 2013 enrollment process suggests that many didn’t approach the purchase of their health plan as they might for that of a car or vacation. The study found that 41 percent said they spent less than 15 minutes researching their health insurance plan options in 2013.
For some, renewal may be a mere formality, but that process could be tricky with consumers unsure of what to expect. For others, the process of cancellation in order to select another health plan must be done carefully to ensure there is no lapse in coverage.
Those who received subsidies may be hit by a financial aftershock that can reduce the amount of any tax subsidy used to offset the insurance premiums. These aftershocks could even include asking insured people to pay the IRS back for the subsidies they’ve received. The subsidies are based strictly on income; so as someone’s income goes up or down, so will their actual subsidy. If someone has had an increase in income, their subsidy will be recalculated to go down. If that person received a larger subsidy than he should have, after it’s all recalculated, the IRS may be asking for some of it back.
For employers, year two brings questions, obligations and possible fines of up to $3,000 per employee, depending on the size of the company.
“Many employers are facing new requirements for the first time. The complexity of their options can be overwhelming and the cost of a wrong decision could be significant for their businesses,” stated St. Hilaire. “Employers would be especially wise to seek the counsel of a professional benefits adviser in order to make the best choices for their company and employees.”
She added, “Whether you’re an individual or an employer, utilizing the services of a professional benefit adviser does not add to the cost of coverage. You essentially receive a free service that provides professional advice, guidance and peace of mind.”
Individuals and employers interested in locating a professional benefits adviser in their community who can assist with questions about year two of the Affordable Care Act may go to Find an Agent.
Texas Association of Health Underwriters (TAHU) is a state trade association representing licensed health insurance agents, brokers, consultants and benefit professionals who serve the health insurance needs of employers seeking health insurance coverage. TAHU is a state chapter of the National Association of Health Underwriters. Reported by PRWeb 6 hours ago.
Austin, Texas (PRWEB) September 23, 2014
While year two of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) may be absent the computer glitches and confusion that reigned in year one, consumers will face uncertainty about the process and questions regarding what many believe is the most important purchase they will make during the year. For some, the approaching open enrollment period may present the opportunity to change the choices they made, good or bad, about their coverage in year one. For individuals that didn’t purchase coverage and many employers, unfamiliarity with the new law will raise questions about coverage options and requirements that must be now confronted.
Year two of open enrollment begins on November 15, 2014, and continues through February 15, 2015. You must enroll by December 15, 2014, in order for your coverage to be effective January 1, 2015. If you purchased coverage for 2014 and you want to change your insurance plan for 2015, you must also enroll in the new plan by December 15, 2014, for it to be effective January 1, 2015.
Because there is no uniform renewal process, the steps to renew may vary among insurers. This could create confusion with canceling coverage from one company in order to select a plan with another.
If coverage is not purchased during open enrollment, consumers will be unable to purchase an ACA-compliant plan until the next enrollment period in late 2015 unless they experience a “qualifying event,” such as a divorce, marriage or change in job status that results in a loss of coverage.
“Twelve months into this process, consumers have had a chance to reflect on the decisions they made regarding their coverage for 2014,” said Jacqueline St. Hilaire, president of the Texas Association of Health Underwriters. “Many found out for the first time that they are not able to purchase ACA-compliant coverage beyond the open enrollment period. Many discovered that their coverage required them to pay higher deductibles than they had anticipated or that their doctor wasn’t in-network. Many are now accepting the fact that they could face increasing fines without coverage.”
According to St. Hilaire, questions about the process for renewal or cancellation, uncertainty about the enrollment timeline, and confusion about the transitional period allowing consumers to maintain noncompliant plans are among the growing questions being asked by consumers as they enter year two of life with a federal health coverage mandate.
St. Hilaire added, “Until last year, a very high percentage of individuals have never had to make choices about deductibles, co-pays and levels of coverage. Many now realize the importance of taking the time to closely review their options and to seek guidance in order to make the right choices for their families, budgets and their future.”
An Aflac study of the 2013 enrollment process suggests that many didn’t approach the purchase of their health plan as they might for that of a car or vacation. The study found that 41 percent said they spent less than 15 minutes researching their health insurance plan options in 2013.
For some, renewal may be a mere formality, but that process could be tricky with consumers unsure of what to expect. For others, the process of cancellation in order to select another health plan must be done carefully to ensure there is no lapse in coverage.
Those who received subsidies may be hit by a financial aftershock that can reduce the amount of any tax subsidy used to offset the insurance premiums. These aftershocks could even include asking insured people to pay the IRS back for the subsidies they’ve received. The subsidies are based strictly on income; so as someone’s income goes up or down, so will their actual subsidy. If someone has had an increase in income, their subsidy will be recalculated to go down. If that person received a larger subsidy than he should have, after it’s all recalculated, the IRS may be asking for some of it back.
For employers, year two brings questions, obligations and possible fines of up to $3,000 per employee, depending on the size of the company.
“Many employers are facing new requirements for the first time. The complexity of their options can be overwhelming and the cost of a wrong decision could be significant for their businesses,” stated St. Hilaire. “Employers would be especially wise to seek the counsel of a professional benefits adviser in order to make the best choices for their company and employees.”
She added, “Whether you’re an individual or an employer, utilizing the services of a professional benefit adviser does not add to the cost of coverage. You essentially receive a free service that provides professional advice, guidance and peace of mind.”
Individuals and employers interested in locating a professional benefits adviser in their community who can assist with questions about year two of the Affordable Care Act may go to Find an Agent.
Texas Association of Health Underwriters (TAHU) is a state trade association representing licensed health insurance agents, brokers, consultants and benefit professionals who serve the health insurance needs of employers seeking health insurance coverage. TAHU is a state chapter of the National Association of Health Underwriters. Reported by PRWeb 6 hours ago.
↧
Lassie Helps Pest Best Present Insurance Policies to 2 Newly Adopted Pets
Pet insurance agency sponsors FIDO Friendly’s nationally recognized pet adoption tour
Boise, Idaho (PRWEB) September 23, 2014
In recognition of Pet Health Insurance Month in September, Pets Best Insurance Services, LLC, a leading pet insurance agency, recently had help from television legend Lassie while presenting Pets Best pet insurance policies to two newly adopted pets during the Get Your Licks on Route 66 pet adoption tour.
Dr. Jack Stephens, founder of Pets Best, has a long-running history with Lassie, as he presented the iconic canine with the first pet insurance policy issued in the United States 32 years ago.
Lassie and Dr. Stephens made an appearance during a Sept. 14 adoption event at the Best Friends Pet Adoption & Spay/Neuter Center in Mission Hills, California, the third stop on the Get Your Licks on Route 66 pet adoption tour. As a reward for supporting the adoption event, the first two families who adopted a pet that day were given one-year pet insurance policies. The Pets Best BestBenefit accident and illness policies were purchased and donated by FIDO Friendly.
The first pet insurance recipient was an 8-year-old mixed breed dog named Chopo, who, after spending a year at the shelter, happily went home with his new family. The second recipient was a black domestic shorthair kitten who is still unnamed but now has a place to call home.
“Pets Best is dedicated to improving the lives of pets across the nation by helping their owners afford the high costs associated with increasingly complex veterinary treatments,” Dr. Stephens said. “As a pet-focused organization, we take pride in supporting events that play a valuable role in promoting pet adoption.”
In an effort to raise awareness about shelters and pet adoption opportunities across the country, Pets Best has joined the Get Your Licks on Route 66 pet adoption tour as the official pet insurance sponsor. The annual tour is put on by FIDO Friendly, a pet-focused travel and lifestyle publication. The tour kicked off on Sept. 12 in Riverside, California, and it ends in Kansas City on Oct. 19.
The sixth annual Get Your Licks on Route 66 tour will make its way across the country, stopping in 16 cities to bring awareness to pet adoption. Each event will take place at a local pet adoption site, and the public is invited to join the festivities. Pets available for adoption will be featured at each event for the public to meet and interact with.
Greg Sims, president and chief operating officer of FIDO Friendly, and Susan Sims, publisher of the quarterly magazine, developed the idea for the annual tour six years ago.
“It occurred to me that while we traveled with our dogs to review hotels and destinations, there might be something we could do while we were going from city to city on behalf of homeless pets,” Susan Sims said, adding that the couple has two adopted shelter dogs, a Labrador retriever named Junior and a boxer named Jake. “I often thought shelters endured a stigma of housing ‘throw-away dogs’ and that if you wanted a purebred dog, you would need to connect with a breeder. Both of our dogs serve as examples that the stigma associated with shelters is far from true.”
Actress, best-selling author and animal lover Danica McKellar serves as the event’s official spokesperson this year. McKellar, best known for her role as Winnie Cooper on “The Wonder Years” was recently seen competing on “Dancing with the Stars.” McKellar made a special appearance at the Los Angeles Animal Services East Valley Shelter on Sept. 13 in Van Nuys, California.
Brandon McMillan, host of the popular CBS show “Lucky Dog,” was also in attendance at the Sept. 13 event. McMillan and his crew filmed a segment that day at the shelter for an upcoming episode of “Lucky Dog.”
In the past five years, the tour has helped more than 2,000 pets find their forever homes. To learn more about the tour dates, visit http://www.getyourlicksonroute66.com. People who visit this website and make a donation of $10 or more to the tour will receive a free one-year digital subscription to FIDO Friendly and a “Leave No Dog Behind®” bumper sticker.
“With the help of our sponsors, we will continue this life-saving tour every year to help shed light on the plight of homeless pets,” Susan Sims said.
About Pets Best Insurance Services, LLC
Dr. Jack L. Stephens, founder and director of Pets Best, founded pet insurance in the U.S. in 1981 with a mission to end euthanasia when pet owners couldn’t afford veterinary treatment. Dr. Stephens went on to present the first U.S. pet insurance policy to famous television dog Lassie. Pets Best provides coverage for dogs and cats. Dr. Stephens leads the Pets Best team with his passion for quality pet care and his expert veterinary knowledge. He is always available to answer questions regarding veterinary medicine, pet health and pet insurance. The Pets Best team is a group of pet lovers who strive to deliver quality customer service and value. Visit http://www.petsbest.com for more information.
Pet insurance coverage offered and administered by Pets Best Insurance Services, LLC is underwritten by Independence American Insurance Company, a Delaware insurance company. Independence American Insurance Company is a member of The IHC Group, an organization of insurance carriers and marketing and administrative affiliates that has been providing life, health, disability, medical stop-loss and specialty insurance solutions to groups and individuals for over 30 years. For information on The IHC Group, visit: http://www.ihcgroup.com. Additional insurance services administered by Pets Best Insurance Services, LLC are underwritten by Prime Insurance Company. Some existing business is underwritten by Aetna Insurance Company of Connecticut. Each insurer has sole financial responsibility for its own products.
Pets Best is a proud member of the North America Pet Health Insurance Association (NAPHIA).
About FIDO Friendly
National quarterly dog magazine, FIDO Friendly is the Travel & Lifestyle magazine for you and your dog. Now in its 14th year, each issue includes hotel and destination reviews, adoption stories, health and wellness topics and the latest trends. FIDO Friendly is the only magazine dedicated to the travel and lifestyle for you and your best friend and the one magazine, your dog will thank you for! Leave No Dog Behind.®
### Reported by PRWeb 6 hours ago.
Boise, Idaho (PRWEB) September 23, 2014
In recognition of Pet Health Insurance Month in September, Pets Best Insurance Services, LLC, a leading pet insurance agency, recently had help from television legend Lassie while presenting Pets Best pet insurance policies to two newly adopted pets during the Get Your Licks on Route 66 pet adoption tour.
Dr. Jack Stephens, founder of Pets Best, has a long-running history with Lassie, as he presented the iconic canine with the first pet insurance policy issued in the United States 32 years ago.
Lassie and Dr. Stephens made an appearance during a Sept. 14 adoption event at the Best Friends Pet Adoption & Spay/Neuter Center in Mission Hills, California, the third stop on the Get Your Licks on Route 66 pet adoption tour. As a reward for supporting the adoption event, the first two families who adopted a pet that day were given one-year pet insurance policies. The Pets Best BestBenefit accident and illness policies were purchased and donated by FIDO Friendly.
The first pet insurance recipient was an 8-year-old mixed breed dog named Chopo, who, after spending a year at the shelter, happily went home with his new family. The second recipient was a black domestic shorthair kitten who is still unnamed but now has a place to call home.
“Pets Best is dedicated to improving the lives of pets across the nation by helping their owners afford the high costs associated with increasingly complex veterinary treatments,” Dr. Stephens said. “As a pet-focused organization, we take pride in supporting events that play a valuable role in promoting pet adoption.”
In an effort to raise awareness about shelters and pet adoption opportunities across the country, Pets Best has joined the Get Your Licks on Route 66 pet adoption tour as the official pet insurance sponsor. The annual tour is put on by FIDO Friendly, a pet-focused travel and lifestyle publication. The tour kicked off on Sept. 12 in Riverside, California, and it ends in Kansas City on Oct. 19.
The sixth annual Get Your Licks on Route 66 tour will make its way across the country, stopping in 16 cities to bring awareness to pet adoption. Each event will take place at a local pet adoption site, and the public is invited to join the festivities. Pets available for adoption will be featured at each event for the public to meet and interact with.
Greg Sims, president and chief operating officer of FIDO Friendly, and Susan Sims, publisher of the quarterly magazine, developed the idea for the annual tour six years ago.
“It occurred to me that while we traveled with our dogs to review hotels and destinations, there might be something we could do while we were going from city to city on behalf of homeless pets,” Susan Sims said, adding that the couple has two adopted shelter dogs, a Labrador retriever named Junior and a boxer named Jake. “I often thought shelters endured a stigma of housing ‘throw-away dogs’ and that if you wanted a purebred dog, you would need to connect with a breeder. Both of our dogs serve as examples that the stigma associated with shelters is far from true.”
Actress, best-selling author and animal lover Danica McKellar serves as the event’s official spokesperson this year. McKellar, best known for her role as Winnie Cooper on “The Wonder Years” was recently seen competing on “Dancing with the Stars.” McKellar made a special appearance at the Los Angeles Animal Services East Valley Shelter on Sept. 13 in Van Nuys, California.
Brandon McMillan, host of the popular CBS show “Lucky Dog,” was also in attendance at the Sept. 13 event. McMillan and his crew filmed a segment that day at the shelter for an upcoming episode of “Lucky Dog.”
In the past five years, the tour has helped more than 2,000 pets find their forever homes. To learn more about the tour dates, visit http://www.getyourlicksonroute66.com. People who visit this website and make a donation of $10 or more to the tour will receive a free one-year digital subscription to FIDO Friendly and a “Leave No Dog Behind®” bumper sticker.
“With the help of our sponsors, we will continue this life-saving tour every year to help shed light on the plight of homeless pets,” Susan Sims said.
About Pets Best Insurance Services, LLC
Dr. Jack L. Stephens, founder and director of Pets Best, founded pet insurance in the U.S. in 1981 with a mission to end euthanasia when pet owners couldn’t afford veterinary treatment. Dr. Stephens went on to present the first U.S. pet insurance policy to famous television dog Lassie. Pets Best provides coverage for dogs and cats. Dr. Stephens leads the Pets Best team with his passion for quality pet care and his expert veterinary knowledge. He is always available to answer questions regarding veterinary medicine, pet health and pet insurance. The Pets Best team is a group of pet lovers who strive to deliver quality customer service and value. Visit http://www.petsbest.com for more information.
Pet insurance coverage offered and administered by Pets Best Insurance Services, LLC is underwritten by Independence American Insurance Company, a Delaware insurance company. Independence American Insurance Company is a member of The IHC Group, an organization of insurance carriers and marketing and administrative affiliates that has been providing life, health, disability, medical stop-loss and specialty insurance solutions to groups and individuals for over 30 years. For information on The IHC Group, visit: http://www.ihcgroup.com. Additional insurance services administered by Pets Best Insurance Services, LLC are underwritten by Prime Insurance Company. Some existing business is underwritten by Aetna Insurance Company of Connecticut. Each insurer has sole financial responsibility for its own products.
Pets Best is a proud member of the North America Pet Health Insurance Association (NAPHIA).
About FIDO Friendly
National quarterly dog magazine, FIDO Friendly is the Travel & Lifestyle magazine for you and your dog. Now in its 14th year, each issue includes hotel and destination reviews, adoption stories, health and wellness topics and the latest trends. FIDO Friendly is the only magazine dedicated to the travel and lifestyle for you and your best friend and the one magazine, your dog will thank you for! Leave No Dog Behind.®
### Reported by PRWeb 6 hours ago.
↧
Five Reasons Why Democracy Hasn't Fixed Inequality
One of the most longstanding hopes (on the left) and fears (on the right) about democratic politics is that voters of modest means will use their electoral weight to level the economic playing field. In a market economy, the median voter's income will invariably be below the national average creating an apparently compelling opportunity for a politics of redistribution. This makes the sustained increase in income inequality in the United States and other developed countries a bit of a puzzle. One common suggestion, offered recently by Eduardo Porter in The New York Times, is ignorance. Voters "don't grasp how deep inequality is."
But while Americans' understanding of economic trends is certainly imperfect, the data suggest that the broad trends are known to the population. Nathan Kelly and Peter Enns, for instance, find that when asked to compare the ratio of the highest paid occupation and the lowest, Americans at the bottom of the income distribution do believe inequality is high and rising. In 1987, Americans as reported that the highest-paid occupation took home 20 times what the lowest paid occupation did - by 2000, they thought the gap had grown to 74 times.
A recent Pew survey finds that 65% of adults agree that the gap between the rich and everyone else has increased in the past 10 years, only 8% say it has decreased. A Gallup poll from earlier this year suggests that 67% of Americans report that they are either "somewhat" or "very" dissatisfied with the income and wealth distribution in the U.S.
If ignorance doesn't explain inaction, what does? These five factors are the most important culprits:*1) Upward mobility*
(Sean McElwee, data from Engelhardt & Wagner)
According to research from Carina Engelhardt and Andreas Wagner, around the world people overestimate the level of upward mobility in their society.
They find that redistribution is lower then when actual social mobility is but also lower where perceived mobility is higher. Even if voters perceive the level of inequality correctly, their tendency to overstate the level of mobility can undermine support for redistribution. In another study Alberto Alesina and Eliana La Ferrara find that, Americans who believe that American society offers equal opportunity (a mythology) are more likely to oppose redistribution. Using data from 33 democracies, Elvire Guillaud finds that those who believe they have experienced downward mobility in the past decade are 32% more likely to support redistribution. A relatively strong literature now supports this thesis.*2) Inequality undermines solidarity*Enns and Kelly find, rather counterintuitively, that when "inequality in America rises, the public responds with increased conservative sentiment." That is, higher inequality leads to less demand for redistribution. This is perhaps because as society becomes less equal, its members have less in common and find it less congenial to act in solidarity. Bo Rothstein and Eric Uslaner argue that, "the best policy response to growing inequality is to enact universalistic social welfare programs. However, the social strains stemming from increased inequality make it almost impossible to enact such policies."
As inequality increases, the winner-take-all economy leads voters try to look out for their own children. The period during which overall inequality has risen has seen a massive increase in more affluent families' spending on enrichment for their own children.
(Sean McElwee, data from Lars Osberg)
Chris Dillow points to research by Klaus Abbink, David Masclet and Daniel Mirza who find in social science experiments that disadvantaged groups are more likely to sacrifice their wealth to reduce the wealth of the advantaged group when inequality was lower than when it was higher. Kris-Stella Trump finds that rising inequality perpetuates itself, noting that, "Public ideas of what constitutes fair income inequality are influenced by actual inequality: when inequality changes, opinions regarding what is acceptable change in the same direction."*3) Political misrepresentation*
Ideological factors can't tell the whole story. Many Americans support redistributive programs like the minimum wage and support for the idea that hard work leads to success has plummeted in the last decade. A further important reason for the lack of political response to inequality relates to the structure of American political institutions, which fail to translate the desires of less-advantaged Americans for more redistribution into actual policy change. Support for this thesis comes from many corners of the political science field, including Martin Gilens, Dorian Warren, Jacob Hacker, Paul Pierson, andKay Lehman Schlozman. Research by five political scientists finds that status quo bias of America's often-gridlocked congress serves to entrench inequality.
More simply, lower-income Americans tend to vote at a lower rate. William Franko, Nathan Kelly and Christopher Witko find that states with lower turnout inequality also have lower income inequality. Elsewhere, Franko finds that states with wider turnout gaps between the rich and poor are less likely to pass minimum-wage increases, have weaker anti-predatory-lending policies and have less generous health insurance programs for children in low-income families. Kim Hill, Jan Leighley and Angela Hilton-Andersson find, "an enduring relationship between the degree of mobilization of lower-class voters and the generosity of welfare benefits." Worryingly, Frederick Solt finds that, "citizens of states with greater income inequality are less likely to vote and that income inequality increases income bias in the electorate." That is, as inequality increases, the poor are less likely to turn out, further exacerbating inequality.*4) Interest-group politics*
The decline of labor unions has decreased the political importance of poor voters, because unions were an important "get-out-the-vote" machine. A recent study by Jan Leighley and Jonathan Nagler finds that the decline in union strength has reduced low-income and middle-income turnout. But labor's influence (or lack thereof) is also important when the voting is done. Research finds that policy outcomes in the United States are heavily mediated by lobbying between interest groups, so organization matters.
Martin Gilens writes, "Given the fact that most Americans have little independent influence on policy outcomes, interest groups like unions may be the only way to forward their economic interests and preference." His research indicates that unions regularly lobby in favor of policies broadly supported by Americans across the income spectrum, in contrast to business groups, which lobby in favor of policies only supported by the wealthy.
(Sean McElwee, data from Martin Gilens)
It's no surprise then that numerous studies have linked the decline in union membership and influence with rising inequality.*5) Racial conflict*
A recent study by Maureen A. Craig and Jennifer A. Richeson finds that when white Americans are reminded that the nation is becoming more diverse, they become more conservative. Dog-whistle phrases like "welfare queens" have long driven whites to oppose social safety net programs they disproportionately benefit from. Research from Donald Kinder and Cindy Kam indicates that racial bias among white voters is strongly correlated with hostility toward means-tested social assistance programs. Another study by Steven Beckman and Buhong Zhen finds that blacks are more likely to support redistribution even if their incomes are far above average and that poor whites are more likely to oppose redistribution.
In other words, a massive public education campaign about the extent of income inequality is neither necessary nor sufficient to achieve the kind of redistributive policies liberals favor. The real obstacles to policy action on inequality are more deeply ingrained in the structure of American politics, demographics, and interest group coalitions. Insofar as there is a role for better information to play, it likely relates not to inequality but tosocial mobility which remains widely misperceived and is a potent driver of feelings about the justice of economic policy. As John Steinbeck noted, "Socialism never took root in America because the poor see themselves not as an exploited proletariat but as temporarily embarrassed millionaires." Stronger unions, more lower income voter turnout and policies to reduce the corrupting influence of money on the political process would all work to reduce inequality. It will take political mobilization, not simply voter education to achieve change. The wonks have interpreted the world; the point, however, is to change it.
This piece originally appeared on Vox. Reported by Huffington Post 5 hours ago.
But while Americans' understanding of economic trends is certainly imperfect, the data suggest that the broad trends are known to the population. Nathan Kelly and Peter Enns, for instance, find that when asked to compare the ratio of the highest paid occupation and the lowest, Americans at the bottom of the income distribution do believe inequality is high and rising. In 1987, Americans as reported that the highest-paid occupation took home 20 times what the lowest paid occupation did - by 2000, they thought the gap had grown to 74 times.
A recent Pew survey finds that 65% of adults agree that the gap between the rich and everyone else has increased in the past 10 years, only 8% say it has decreased. A Gallup poll from earlier this year suggests that 67% of Americans report that they are either "somewhat" or "very" dissatisfied with the income and wealth distribution in the U.S.
If ignorance doesn't explain inaction, what does? These five factors are the most important culprits:*1) Upward mobility*
(Sean McElwee, data from Engelhardt & Wagner)
According to research from Carina Engelhardt and Andreas Wagner, around the world people overestimate the level of upward mobility in their society.
They find that redistribution is lower then when actual social mobility is but also lower where perceived mobility is higher. Even if voters perceive the level of inequality correctly, their tendency to overstate the level of mobility can undermine support for redistribution. In another study Alberto Alesina and Eliana La Ferrara find that, Americans who believe that American society offers equal opportunity (a mythology) are more likely to oppose redistribution. Using data from 33 democracies, Elvire Guillaud finds that those who believe they have experienced downward mobility in the past decade are 32% more likely to support redistribution. A relatively strong literature now supports this thesis.*2) Inequality undermines solidarity*Enns and Kelly find, rather counterintuitively, that when "inequality in America rises, the public responds with increased conservative sentiment." That is, higher inequality leads to less demand for redistribution. This is perhaps because as society becomes less equal, its members have less in common and find it less congenial to act in solidarity. Bo Rothstein and Eric Uslaner argue that, "the best policy response to growing inequality is to enact universalistic social welfare programs. However, the social strains stemming from increased inequality make it almost impossible to enact such policies."
As inequality increases, the winner-take-all economy leads voters try to look out for their own children. The period during which overall inequality has risen has seen a massive increase in more affluent families' spending on enrichment for their own children.
(Sean McElwee, data from Lars Osberg)
Chris Dillow points to research by Klaus Abbink, David Masclet and Daniel Mirza who find in social science experiments that disadvantaged groups are more likely to sacrifice their wealth to reduce the wealth of the advantaged group when inequality was lower than when it was higher. Kris-Stella Trump finds that rising inequality perpetuates itself, noting that, "Public ideas of what constitutes fair income inequality are influenced by actual inequality: when inequality changes, opinions regarding what is acceptable change in the same direction."*3) Political misrepresentation*
Ideological factors can't tell the whole story. Many Americans support redistributive programs like the minimum wage and support for the idea that hard work leads to success has plummeted in the last decade. A further important reason for the lack of political response to inequality relates to the structure of American political institutions, which fail to translate the desires of less-advantaged Americans for more redistribution into actual policy change. Support for this thesis comes from many corners of the political science field, including Martin Gilens, Dorian Warren, Jacob Hacker, Paul Pierson, andKay Lehman Schlozman. Research by five political scientists finds that status quo bias of America's often-gridlocked congress serves to entrench inequality.
More simply, lower-income Americans tend to vote at a lower rate. William Franko, Nathan Kelly and Christopher Witko find that states with lower turnout inequality also have lower income inequality. Elsewhere, Franko finds that states with wider turnout gaps between the rich and poor are less likely to pass minimum-wage increases, have weaker anti-predatory-lending policies and have less generous health insurance programs for children in low-income families. Kim Hill, Jan Leighley and Angela Hilton-Andersson find, "an enduring relationship between the degree of mobilization of lower-class voters and the generosity of welfare benefits." Worryingly, Frederick Solt finds that, "citizens of states with greater income inequality are less likely to vote and that income inequality increases income bias in the electorate." That is, as inequality increases, the poor are less likely to turn out, further exacerbating inequality.*4) Interest-group politics*
The decline of labor unions has decreased the political importance of poor voters, because unions were an important "get-out-the-vote" machine. A recent study by Jan Leighley and Jonathan Nagler finds that the decline in union strength has reduced low-income and middle-income turnout. But labor's influence (or lack thereof) is also important when the voting is done. Research finds that policy outcomes in the United States are heavily mediated by lobbying between interest groups, so organization matters.
Martin Gilens writes, "Given the fact that most Americans have little independent influence on policy outcomes, interest groups like unions may be the only way to forward their economic interests and preference." His research indicates that unions regularly lobby in favor of policies broadly supported by Americans across the income spectrum, in contrast to business groups, which lobby in favor of policies only supported by the wealthy.
(Sean McElwee, data from Martin Gilens)
It's no surprise then that numerous studies have linked the decline in union membership and influence with rising inequality.*5) Racial conflict*
A recent study by Maureen A. Craig and Jennifer A. Richeson finds that when white Americans are reminded that the nation is becoming more diverse, they become more conservative. Dog-whistle phrases like "welfare queens" have long driven whites to oppose social safety net programs they disproportionately benefit from. Research from Donald Kinder and Cindy Kam indicates that racial bias among white voters is strongly correlated with hostility toward means-tested social assistance programs. Another study by Steven Beckman and Buhong Zhen finds that blacks are more likely to support redistribution even if their incomes are far above average and that poor whites are more likely to oppose redistribution.
In other words, a massive public education campaign about the extent of income inequality is neither necessary nor sufficient to achieve the kind of redistributive policies liberals favor. The real obstacles to policy action on inequality are more deeply ingrained in the structure of American politics, demographics, and interest group coalitions. Insofar as there is a role for better information to play, it likely relates not to inequality but tosocial mobility which remains widely misperceived and is a potent driver of feelings about the justice of economic policy. As John Steinbeck noted, "Socialism never took root in America because the poor see themselves not as an exploited proletariat but as temporarily embarrassed millionaires." Stronger unions, more lower income voter turnout and policies to reduce the corrupting influence of money on the political process would all work to reduce inequality. It will take political mobilization, not simply voter education to achieve change. The wonks have interpreted the world; the point, however, is to change it.
This piece originally appeared on Vox. Reported by Huffington Post 5 hours ago.
↧
Expanding Healthcare Sector Drives Demand for Medical Transcription Services, According to New Report by Global Industry Analysts, Inc.
GIA announces the release of a comprehensive global report on Medical Transcription Services markets. Global market for Medical Transcription Services is forecast to reach US$58.4 billion by 2020, driven by the growing healthcare sector.
San Jose, California (PRWEB) September 23, 2014
Follow us on LinkedIn – Medical transcription is the process of translating the entire verbal medical records regarding patient diagnosis, assessment, clinical course, therapeutic procedures, and prognosis, into a readable textual format, for easy accessibility by health insurance agents, patients, and healthcare providers. With attending physicians unable to make time for detailed documentation of each patient’s condition, outsourcing of such documentation to medical transcription services has gained significance over the years. Despite the prominent practice of in-house transcription in several healthcare settings, outsourcing is gaining in significance given its benefits such as, cost effectiveness, elimination of documentation backlogs, and low turnaround times.
Growth in the market is expected to benefit from the positive outlook in the healthcare sector. Aging world population vulnerable to numerous health conditions, rise in the prevalence of lifestyle induced chronic health disorders such as obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and growing need to comply with stringent HIPAA regulations, represent factors driving growth in the healthcare industry worldwide. Advancements in medical dictation will continue to revolutionize the field of medical transcription. The market is also expected to benefit from the rising need to comply with ICD-10, the latest version of international medical coding. The subsequent rise in the amount of documentation as a result of expanded coding is expected to improve prospects for medical transcription in the coming years.
As stated by the new market research report on Medical Transcription Services, the United States represents the largest market worldwide. With nearly 95% of Medicare bills in the country paid by insurance providers, every healthcare process for each patient requires careful documentation. Asia-Pacific represents the fastest growing market with a CAGR of 8.9% over the analysis period. Growth in the region is led by the growing popularity of outsourcing medical transcription processes to low cost service providers in Philippines and India. Low labour costs, access to skilled managerial talents and operations, better capacity utilization, and well-organized labour deployments represent factors encouraging increased outsourcing to developing Asian countries.
Key players covered in the report Acusis India, Audio Dicta Transcription Services, Care Technologies India Private Ltd., eTransMed LLC, iMedX Inc., M*Modal IP LLC, MTS Transcription Services, Nuance Communications Inc., Precyse Solutions LLC, Scribe Healthcare Technologies Inc., Superior Global Solutions Inc., TopTrans Company, Total Transcription Solutions Inc., TransDyne, TransTech Medical Solutions and Vennar Soft Inc. among others.
The research report titled “Medical Transcription Services: A Global Strategic Business Report” announced by Global Industry Analysts Inc., provides a comprehensive review of market trends growth drivers, regulations, issues, challenges, and strategic industry activities of major players worldwide. The report provides market estimates and projections in US$ Million for all major geographic markets including the US, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of World. The report also analyzes the global market for Medical Transcription by the following service segments - Consultation Report and Other Reports. The report also analyzes the US market for Medical Transcription Services by Mode - In-House Services and Outsourced Services. In addition, the report analyzes Indian and Philippines Offshore Medical Transcription Services market.
For more details about this comprehensive market research report, please visit –
http://www.strategyr.com/Medical_Transcription_Services_Market_Report.asp
About Global Industry Analysts, Inc.
Global Industry Analysts, Inc., (GIA) is a leading publisher of off-the-shelf market research. Founded in 1987, the company currently employs over 800 people worldwide. Annually, GIA publishes more than 1300 full-scale research reports and analyzes 40,000+ market and technology trends while monitoring more than 126,000 Companies worldwide. Serving over 9500 clients in 27 countries, GIA is recognized today, as one of the world's largest and reputed market research firms.
Global Industry Analysts, Inc.
Telephone: 408-528-9966
Fax: 408-528-9977
Email: press(at)StrategyR(dot)com
Web Site: http://www.StrategyR.com/
### Reported by PRWeb 5 hours ago.
San Jose, California (PRWEB) September 23, 2014
Follow us on LinkedIn – Medical transcription is the process of translating the entire verbal medical records regarding patient diagnosis, assessment, clinical course, therapeutic procedures, and prognosis, into a readable textual format, for easy accessibility by health insurance agents, patients, and healthcare providers. With attending physicians unable to make time for detailed documentation of each patient’s condition, outsourcing of such documentation to medical transcription services has gained significance over the years. Despite the prominent practice of in-house transcription in several healthcare settings, outsourcing is gaining in significance given its benefits such as, cost effectiveness, elimination of documentation backlogs, and low turnaround times.
Growth in the market is expected to benefit from the positive outlook in the healthcare sector. Aging world population vulnerable to numerous health conditions, rise in the prevalence of lifestyle induced chronic health disorders such as obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and growing need to comply with stringent HIPAA regulations, represent factors driving growth in the healthcare industry worldwide. Advancements in medical dictation will continue to revolutionize the field of medical transcription. The market is also expected to benefit from the rising need to comply with ICD-10, the latest version of international medical coding. The subsequent rise in the amount of documentation as a result of expanded coding is expected to improve prospects for medical transcription in the coming years.
As stated by the new market research report on Medical Transcription Services, the United States represents the largest market worldwide. With nearly 95% of Medicare bills in the country paid by insurance providers, every healthcare process for each patient requires careful documentation. Asia-Pacific represents the fastest growing market with a CAGR of 8.9% over the analysis period. Growth in the region is led by the growing popularity of outsourcing medical transcription processes to low cost service providers in Philippines and India. Low labour costs, access to skilled managerial talents and operations, better capacity utilization, and well-organized labour deployments represent factors encouraging increased outsourcing to developing Asian countries.
Key players covered in the report Acusis India, Audio Dicta Transcription Services, Care Technologies India Private Ltd., eTransMed LLC, iMedX Inc., M*Modal IP LLC, MTS Transcription Services, Nuance Communications Inc., Precyse Solutions LLC, Scribe Healthcare Technologies Inc., Superior Global Solutions Inc., TopTrans Company, Total Transcription Solutions Inc., TransDyne, TransTech Medical Solutions and Vennar Soft Inc. among others.
The research report titled “Medical Transcription Services: A Global Strategic Business Report” announced by Global Industry Analysts Inc., provides a comprehensive review of market trends growth drivers, regulations, issues, challenges, and strategic industry activities of major players worldwide. The report provides market estimates and projections in US$ Million for all major geographic markets including the US, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of World. The report also analyzes the global market for Medical Transcription by the following service segments - Consultation Report and Other Reports. The report also analyzes the US market for Medical Transcription Services by Mode - In-House Services and Outsourced Services. In addition, the report analyzes Indian and Philippines Offshore Medical Transcription Services market.
For more details about this comprehensive market research report, please visit –
http://www.strategyr.com/Medical_Transcription_Services_Market_Report.asp
About Global Industry Analysts, Inc.
Global Industry Analysts, Inc., (GIA) is a leading publisher of off-the-shelf market research. Founded in 1987, the company currently employs over 800 people worldwide. Annually, GIA publishes more than 1300 full-scale research reports and analyzes 40,000+ market and technology trends while monitoring more than 126,000 Companies worldwide. Serving over 9500 clients in 27 countries, GIA is recognized today, as one of the world's largest and reputed market research firms.
Global Industry Analysts, Inc.
Telephone: 408-528-9966
Fax: 408-528-9977
Email: press(at)StrategyR(dot)com
Web Site: http://www.StrategyR.com/
### Reported by PRWeb 5 hours ago.
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Blue Cross and Blue Shield, State Farm team up to sell health policies
The state’s largest health insurance company is adding the firepower of the nation’s largest home and auto insurer to sell health care policies this fall, both companies said Tuesday.
Reported by ChicagoTribune 4 hours ago.
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Blue Cross® and Blue Shield® Health Plans and State Farm® Affiliates Team Up to Expand Access to Individual Health Coverage through New Alliance
CHICAGO and BLOOMINGTON, Ill., Sept. 23, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Blue Cross and Blue Shield (BCBS) health plans and State Farm today announced a new effort to broaden consumer access to health insurance during the upcoming open enrollment period for the Affordable Care Act. More than...
Reported by PR Newswire 5 hours ago.
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Why You Are Likely To Lose Your Health Insurance -- No Matter How Much You Like It
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Connect for Health Colorado CFO to Join Eventus Solutions Group as Vice President of Customer Engagement
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Reported by PR Newswire 4 hours ago.
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ADP introduces health care coverage for employers
Payroll services giant ADP (NASDAQ:ADP) is unveiling a health insurance product in western Pennsylvania that is designed to give employers the buying leverage of a Fortune 500 company. ADP’s TotalSource division pools employers to purchase health care benefits at rates only available to bigger companies. Nationwide, ADP’s health insurance renewal rates range between 6 percent and 10 percent, said Senior District Manager Brandon Crusan, and the marketing push comes as so-called grandmothered…
Reported by bizjournals 3 hours ago.
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Government hackers try to crack HealthCare.gov
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Reported by San Jose Mercury News 2 hours ago.
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7 Financial Planning Tips for Single Parents
This article was written by Lisa Hay for Betterment.com.
Single parents have a lot to handle--not only do they act as the sole provider of care and emotional support, but they may also be the only financial provider for their children.
Here are some of the first things for single parents to consider when coming up with a prudent money plan.
-1. Estate planning is your first priority.-It's essential to make to make arrangements for your children if you die or become incapacitated. You will need three major documents:· A will that specifies who will take care of your children if you die and how you will pass your assets down to them. One of the most important functions of a will is to name a guardian for your children. When selecting an executor, you should choose someone whom you trust, but that person should also be well-organized and have some knowledge of financial matters.· A "power of attorney," which gives someone the legal right to make decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so.· An additional power of attorney specifically for healthcare, which gives someone the right to coordinate with doctors about your care if you are incapacitated
-*2. Have a cash flow plan.*-You may have irregular streams of income. If you are divorced or widowed, you may have received a lump-sum insurance payment or Social Security benefits for children, and you may be receiving alimony payments and/or child support. These payments may stop or be reduced over time.
It's important to plan ahead by projecting your future income over several time periods. If any of the amounts will change, you have two choices: Either make up the loss of income from other sources or adjust your lifestyle. The important thing is to have a plan.
You may also want to set up a trust to provide for your children. A trust is a legal structure in which your assets can be held for the children and is overseen by a trustee. You should consider similar attributes when naming a trustee as you do when choosing an executor.-*3. Create a safety net.*-One of the most important steps in financial planning is to have an adequate emergency fund that acts as a financial safety net. As a general rule, you should have at least six months' worth of non-discretionary expenses in an account that is separate from the one from which you use to handle daily expenses. That could be a savings account or a low-risk investment account.-*4. Plan ahead for health costs.*-It's common to lose health insurance after the death of or divorce from a spouse, and medical costs can be crippling. Approximately 1.7 million Americans live in households that will declare bankruptcy due to their inability to pay their medical bills, according to a recent NerdWallet study, so factor any foreseeable health costs into your emergency fund. You can comparison-shop for policies at your state's marketplace or at HealthCare.gov.-*5. Purchase life insurance.*-Life insurance can also be extremely important for single parents. However, what you purchase will depend on your family and finances. To determine your life insurance needs, calculate what you want the proceeds to do. For example, in addition to covering living expenses, do you want the proceeds to pay off a mortgage or pay for college? A term policy is most economical because it's pure insurance.-*6. Explore disability coverage.*-Disability insurance can be especially crucial for single parents who don't have a second income from a spouse to help cover the gap. Check with your employer to see whether it offers the benefit. Generally, you will get a reduced income amount when you claim disability--anywhere from 50% to 70% of your salary.-*7. Prioritize your retirement savings over education.*-If you need to make a choice between saving for retirement or paying college tuition, in most situations, you should choose saving for retirement. A student can go to college with a grant, scholarship or loan--but your earning capacity will diminish over time.
As a single parent, you know how difficult it can be to stay on top of everything. That's especially true of money matters. While getting your finances in order may involve an initial investment of time, addressing these issues will ultimately create financial peace of mind and a stronger financial future for you and your children. Remember, financial situations vary, so it's important to speak with a professional for advice based on your own circumstances.
*More from Betterment.com:*· Don't Wait to Have This Conversation with Your Parents· 10 Books for Successful Investors· This Couple Retired in Their 30s. Could You?
New to Betterment? Betterment is the largest automated investing service that helps people to better manage, protect, and grow their wealth through smarter technology. The service offers a globally diversified portfolio of ETFs, designed to help provide you with the best possible expected returns for retirement planning, building wealth, and other savings goals. Betterment is a CNBC Disruptor 50 and Webby award winner and has been featured in the New York Times, Forbes, and the Wall Street Journal. Betterment helps people to achieve a smarter financial future with minimal effort and at a fraction of the fees of traditional financial services. Learn more here.
Determination of largest automated investment service reflects Betterment LLC's distinction of having the most accounts, based on Betterment's review of account numbers self-reported in the SEC's Form ADV, across Betterment's survey of automated investment services.
The content on this post is not intended to provide tax, legal, accounting, financial, or professional advice, and readers are advised to seek out qualified professionals that provide advice on these issues for specific client circumstances. In addition, the publisher/blogger cannot guarantee that the information on this website/post has not been outdated or otherwise rendered incorrect by subsequent new research, legislation, or other changes in law or binding guidance. The publisher/blogger shall not have any liability or responsibility to any individual or entity with respect to losses or damages caused or alleged to be caused, directly or indirectly, by the information contained on this website/post. In addition, any advice, articles, or commentary included in this website/post do not constitute a tax opinion and are not intended or written to be used, nor can they be used, by any taxpayer for the purpose of avoiding penalties that may be imposed on the taxpayer. Reported by Huffington Post 1 hour ago.
Single parents have a lot to handle--not only do they act as the sole provider of care and emotional support, but they may also be the only financial provider for their children.
Here are some of the first things for single parents to consider when coming up with a prudent money plan.
-1. Estate planning is your first priority.-It's essential to make to make arrangements for your children if you die or become incapacitated. You will need three major documents:· A will that specifies who will take care of your children if you die and how you will pass your assets down to them. One of the most important functions of a will is to name a guardian for your children. When selecting an executor, you should choose someone whom you trust, but that person should also be well-organized and have some knowledge of financial matters.· A "power of attorney," which gives someone the legal right to make decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so.· An additional power of attorney specifically for healthcare, which gives someone the right to coordinate with doctors about your care if you are incapacitated
-*2. Have a cash flow plan.*-You may have irregular streams of income. If you are divorced or widowed, you may have received a lump-sum insurance payment or Social Security benefits for children, and you may be receiving alimony payments and/or child support. These payments may stop or be reduced over time.
It's important to plan ahead by projecting your future income over several time periods. If any of the amounts will change, you have two choices: Either make up the loss of income from other sources or adjust your lifestyle. The important thing is to have a plan.
You may also want to set up a trust to provide for your children. A trust is a legal structure in which your assets can be held for the children and is overseen by a trustee. You should consider similar attributes when naming a trustee as you do when choosing an executor.-*3. Create a safety net.*-One of the most important steps in financial planning is to have an adequate emergency fund that acts as a financial safety net. As a general rule, you should have at least six months' worth of non-discretionary expenses in an account that is separate from the one from which you use to handle daily expenses. That could be a savings account or a low-risk investment account.-*4. Plan ahead for health costs.*-It's common to lose health insurance after the death of or divorce from a spouse, and medical costs can be crippling. Approximately 1.7 million Americans live in households that will declare bankruptcy due to their inability to pay their medical bills, according to a recent NerdWallet study, so factor any foreseeable health costs into your emergency fund. You can comparison-shop for policies at your state's marketplace or at HealthCare.gov.-*5. Purchase life insurance.*-Life insurance can also be extremely important for single parents. However, what you purchase will depend on your family and finances. To determine your life insurance needs, calculate what you want the proceeds to do. For example, in addition to covering living expenses, do you want the proceeds to pay off a mortgage or pay for college? A term policy is most economical because it's pure insurance.-*6. Explore disability coverage.*-Disability insurance can be especially crucial for single parents who don't have a second income from a spouse to help cover the gap. Check with your employer to see whether it offers the benefit. Generally, you will get a reduced income amount when you claim disability--anywhere from 50% to 70% of your salary.-*7. Prioritize your retirement savings over education.*-If you need to make a choice between saving for retirement or paying college tuition, in most situations, you should choose saving for retirement. A student can go to college with a grant, scholarship or loan--but your earning capacity will diminish over time.
As a single parent, you know how difficult it can be to stay on top of everything. That's especially true of money matters. While getting your finances in order may involve an initial investment of time, addressing these issues will ultimately create financial peace of mind and a stronger financial future for you and your children. Remember, financial situations vary, so it's important to speak with a professional for advice based on your own circumstances.
*More from Betterment.com:*· Don't Wait to Have This Conversation with Your Parents· 10 Books for Successful Investors· This Couple Retired in Their 30s. Could You?
New to Betterment? Betterment is the largest automated investing service that helps people to better manage, protect, and grow their wealth through smarter technology. The service offers a globally diversified portfolio of ETFs, designed to help provide you with the best possible expected returns for retirement planning, building wealth, and other savings goals. Betterment is a CNBC Disruptor 50 and Webby award winner and has been featured in the New York Times, Forbes, and the Wall Street Journal. Betterment helps people to achieve a smarter financial future with minimal effort and at a fraction of the fees of traditional financial services. Learn more here.
Determination of largest automated investment service reflects Betterment LLC's distinction of having the most accounts, based on Betterment's review of account numbers self-reported in the SEC's Form ADV, across Betterment's survey of automated investment services.
The content on this post is not intended to provide tax, legal, accounting, financial, or professional advice, and readers are advised to seek out qualified professionals that provide advice on these issues for specific client circumstances. In addition, the publisher/blogger cannot guarantee that the information on this website/post has not been outdated or otherwise rendered incorrect by subsequent new research, legislation, or other changes in law or binding guidance. The publisher/blogger shall not have any liability or responsibility to any individual or entity with respect to losses or damages caused or alleged to be caused, directly or indirectly, by the information contained on this website/post. In addition, any advice, articles, or commentary included in this website/post do not constitute a tax opinion and are not intended or written to be used, nor can they be used, by any taxpayer for the purpose of avoiding penalties that may be imposed on the taxpayer. Reported by Huffington Post 1 hour ago.
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