Quantcast
Channel: Health Insurance Headlines on One News Page [United States]
Viewing all 22794 articles
Browse latest View live

Austin-Area Family and Sports Medicines Team Offers Advice on Saving Money by Utilizing Health Insurance Benefits

$
0
0
Medicine in Motion reminds patients to take full advantage of health insurance benefits before end of year

AUSTIN, Texas (PRWEB) November 14, 2018

The Austin-area sports medicine team at Medicine in Motion is reminding patients that as the New Year approaches, it’s time to pull out the healthcare plan paperwork to review coverage and assess how many unused insurance benefits remains. Whether it was a self-purchased plan or sponsored by an employer, most people can benefit by taking a few minutes for an insurance plan evaluation.

“With the holidays upon us, it’s easy to forget to take advantage of your annual benefits, but patients can save hundreds of dollars by using their health insurance benefits before the end of the year,” said Dr. Martha Pyron, owner of Medicine in Motion. “Most insurance plans run on a calendar year, so now is the time to use-them or lose-them. You’ve worked hard for your health care benefits – make sure you take advantage of them.”

Here is a look at eight points to remember for saving money in conjunction with health insurance:

1. Annual Benefits – Any benefits with a calendar limit should be taken advantage of before the end of the year. These may include certain types of checkups and preventative health services.

2. Disappearing Benefits – Carefully read through the insurance information provided by the employer and/or insurance company after enrolling to see if any benefits are changing with the New Year. If some are being reduced or outright eliminated, get the most of the current coverage before treatment costs go up.

3. Health Savings Accounts (HSA) – An HSA is a medical savings account available to those who are enrolled in a high-deductible health plan. Funds contributed to an HSA aren’t subject to income tax at the time of deposit. A contributor can maximize tax savings by fulling funding their HSA account. Unused HSA funds will rollover and continue to grow each year.

4. Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) – This is an account established through employers for employees to place some of their pre-tax dollars into. Unlike HSA funds, unspent FSA money will NOT rollover, so it’s important to utilize those contributions before they’re gone. FSA dollars can be used for annual physicals, as co-payments for doctor visits, prescription refills, eyes exams and much more.

5. Deductibles – The deductible is the amount of money that a patient must pay their health provider out of pocket before the insurance company will pay for any services. This fee varies from one plan to another and could be higher if a patient chooses an out-of-network doctor. Deductibles also reset when plans roll over with a new year, so those who have met their deductibles for the current year should attempt to continue or finish treatment before the fees return.

6. Premiums – If a patient is paying his or her health insurance premiums every month, they should be using their benefits. Even if there are no signs of problems, patients should always have their annual checkups and exams as a measure of prevention and to detect any early signs of health issues that cannot be detected without a professional healthcare provider.

7. Health Problems Can Worsen – By delaying treatment or even a checkup, patients are risking more extensive and expensive treatment in the future. What may be a simple ailment now could turn into a much bigger and costlier health issue later.

8. Long Term Care – Insured individuals may want to confer with their employer or health insurance company to see if they offer any wellness incentives or gym membership discounts. Taking advantage of these type of health initiatives can save cash in the short term, but they can also save money in the long term by improving physical fitness and, therefore, keeping medical and insurance costs down.

Medicine in Motion (MIM) specializes in providing top quality family medicine and treatment for sports injuries in Austin, Texas, for athletic individuals of all ages and levels. The staff at MIM believes active bodies are healthy bodies, therefore it is the office's goal to keep patients energetic and fit. To that end, MIM provides treatment of injuries and illnesses, including the use of physical rehabilitation; promotes healthy living with personal training and nutrition coaching; and offers comprehensive sports, work, and daily life injury evaluations to optimize health, activity level and sports performance. For more information or for questions regarding athlete care in Austin, contact Medicine in Motion at 512-257-2500 or visit the website at http://www.medinmotion.com. Reported by PRWeb 13 hours ago.

Preferred Health Insurance Solutions Provides a Worksheet to Assist Consumers Enrolling in the Health Insurance Marketplace

$
0
0
Prior to enrolling in the Health Insurance Marketplace, consumers will need to prepare by gathering necessary supporting information for each household member included on the plan.

BEDFORD PARK, Ill. (PRWEB) November 14, 2018

“The Health Insurance Marketplace six-week Open Enrollment Period (OEP) is now underway began Nov. 1, 2018 and continues through Dec. 15, 2018). Enrolling in the Marketplace can be daunting. But, if consumers are prepared and gather necessary information, it does not have to be an overwhelming process,” explained Bob Dial, Chief Compliance Officer, Preferred Health Insurance Solutions (PHIS).

Dial further explained that funding for Navigators has been reduced. There are fewer resources available to assist consumers with shopping for a plan, calculating their subsidies and enrolling them for coverage for their 2019 health plan. In fact, no federally funded Navigators will be available in the states of Montana, Iowa and New Hampshire.

The insurance professionals at PHIS are prepared to assist consumers with all their enrollment needs. Their dedicated PHIS Call Center consists of a team of CMS-certified, state-licensed, multi-lingual health, insurance professionals, that are trained to walk a client through the entire process of selecting a health insurance plan. In addition, they can respond to any questions the client may have regarding their new health insurance policy.

PHIS provides the following checklist to assist consumers with applying or re-enrolling in the Health Insurance Marketplace:

1. Prior to starting the application, determine who in your household needs to apply or re-enroll for coverage. The PHIS Call Center has licensed insurance professionals that provide direction to ensure the enrollee(s) get placed with a plan that best suits their health needs and budget.

2. Information about everyone applying for coverage, such as home address, Social Security Numbers, birthdates,

3. For re-enrollees, policy numbers and plan IDs, for any current health plans covering members of the household.

4. Information about how taxes are filed. To reference, having past tax documents available will help ensure financial information is entered correctly.

5. Document information for legal immigrants.

6. Employer and income information for every member of your household that will be included on the policy. Pay stubs or W2 forms will need to be provided.

7. Estimated household income for 2019. “Calculating household income can be confusing. It is critical that accurate financial and tax information be properly calculated in order to determine if the insured is eligible for any premium subsidies. This is why working with a licensed health insurance agent is so important. The PHIS Call Center team of multi-lingual, health insurance professionals are trained to walk a client through the entire process of selecting a healthcare plan, calculating subsidies and enrolling them for their coverage. They possess an in-depth understanding of the Health Insurance Marketplace, which allows them to respond to any questions Dial explained.

8. Verify that there are no outstanding premium balances on their current health plan.

Dial concluded, “PHIS licensed insurance agents are available to assist consumers with selecting the most comprehensive health insurance plan that best meets their specific needs and budget. Consumers have numerous affordable health care insurance options available to them. Working with a licensed insurance professional will provide the assurance that the best option is selected.”

About Preferred Health Insurance Solutions: Headquartered in Bedford Park, Illinois, Preferred Health Insurance Solutions (PHIS) is a national enrollment firm specializing in the Health Insurance Marketplace as well as a variety of other ancillary health insurance products, including Dental, Critical Illness, Short Term Medical, and others. PHIS, formerly known as ACA Marketplace Enrollment Solutions (ACAEnroll.com), provides enrollments services throughout the country, and through national and regional insurance carriers. Effective November 1, 2018, the health insurance Marketplace opened for enrollment. The PHIS Call Center is available to assist consumers enrolling for their 2019 health plan. Consumers can call the PHIS Call Center at 800-342-0631 or access the company’s website at http://www.PHISonline.com. Reported by PRWeb 13 hours ago.

Fraudster invented fake wife and children in health insurance scam

$
0
0
A MAN used fake details to make bogus health insurance claims for himself and a made-up wife and children. Reported by The Argus 12 hours ago.

Over 60s overpaying for health insurance

$
0
0
Older people are generally paying too much for their health insurance. Reported by RTE.ie 11 hours ago.

Proposed HRA Rule from Trump Administration Would Roll Back Some ACA Regulations

$
0
0
Revised rule would allow employers to use tax-advantaged health reimbursement arrangements as a vehicle for providing mandatory health insurance coverage, notes Cowden Associates. Proposal could affect 800,000 employers and up to 10 million workers.

PITTSBURGH (PRWEB) November 14, 2018

On October 29, the Trump administration published a proposed new rule permitting the use of employer-funded, tax-advantaged accounts called health reimbursement arrangements (HRAs) to purchase individual health-insurance coverage. According to preliminary estimates from the Treasury Department, once employers and employees have fully adjusted to the new rule, roughly 800,000 employers are expected to provide HRAs to pay for individual health insurance coverage to over 10 million employees.[1] “The proposal is clearly meant to provide an alternative approach to employee health coverage,” says Cowden Associates President and CEO Elliot Dinkin, a nationally known expert in actuarial, compensation, and employee benefits issues. “If it works the way it is apparently designed to work, it could have a significant impact on the health insurance market.”

Prior to the enactment of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), Dinkin explains, HRAs served as a vehicle that allowed employees to purchase a non-group plan of their choice. Employees submitted receipts, for which their employers would reimburse them with pre-tax dollars. Several requirements in the ACA, including the creation of essential health benefits and removal of annual and lifetime limits on health insurance, curtailed this option.

The administration’s proposal restores the ability to use HRAs for purchasing individual market insurance. A preliminary analysis by the Treasury Department indicates that the new rule could boost individual market enrollment, stabilizing the market while decreasing the number of people without insurance. The proposed rule predicts that in the absence of restrictions, employers would seek to place their unhealthy employees into HRAs so they could take on less risk in their traditional group plans. Such a scenario would increase adverse selection in the individual market and increase premiums. The proposed rule seeks to prevent this by placing restrictions on how employers decide who receives an HRA versus traditional group insurance. Employers could only discriminate based on different classes of employees (full time, part time, seasonal, covered by a collective bargaining agreement, etc.) [2]

Payer industry groups and healthcare organizations, however, believe that changes in the regulatory environment may negatively affect health plan affordability and essential health benefit access for private insurance consumers. The experts believe that healthier individuals could drop ACA-compliant coverage for association health plans (AHPs), which would likely create a less healthy and costlier ACA risk pool. In addition, the American Medical Association and other leading provider organizations have objected to short-term health plan rules that allow individuals to enroll in plans that don’t cover essential health benefits for three years.[3]

The proposed regulation, Dinkin notes, also eliminates the ACA employer mandate that requires the offering of a healthcare option to 95% of eligible employees and creates a new standard of affordability of the HRA tied to certain exchange level offerings.

“Does this mean employers could offer tax-free money for health benefits completely separate from a qualified individual or group plan? The answer,” says Dinkin, “appears to be yes. The proposed rules appear to provide some flexibility to employers who would hitherto have been effectively forced either to provide benefits or cancel coverage. It also, by limiting application to entire large classes of employees, offers some protection to covered individuals. We will continue to monitor development on this topic.”

About Cowden Associates:
Cowden Associates, Inc., headquartered in Pittsburgh, PA, was created in 2001 by the merger of Halliwell and Associates and MMC&P Spectrum Benefits, which was founded by Jere Cowden in 1986. Currently led by President & CEO Elliot Dinkin, Cowden Associates specializes in helping corporate clients find the best solutions, both for the enterprise and for its employees, with regard to compensation, healthcare benefits, retirement and pension issues, and Taft-Hartley fund consulting. Winning Workplaces and The Wall Street Journal have recognized Cowden Associates as a “Top Small Workplace,” a lifetime designation awarded to executives for their ability to build and lead savvy organizations. For more information, visit http://www.cowdenassociates.com

1.    Morse, Susan, “Trump administration to expand use of HRAs to individual marketplace,” Healthcare Finance News, October 24, 2018.
2.    Keisling, Jonathan, “Sizing Up The Proposed HRA Rule,” American Action Forum, October 25, 2018.
3.    Beaton, Thomas, “Proposed Rule Alters HRAs to Allow Direct Reimbursement to Employees,” Healthpayer Intelligence, October 24, 2018. Reported by PRWeb 8 hours ago.

CDPHP Insights Member Drive to Benefit YWCA of the Greater Capital Region

$
0
0
Albany, N.Y., Nov. 14, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- CDPHP Insights, a vibrant online community made up of health care consumers sharing valuable feedback with CDPHP, is hosting a membership drive during the month of November to benefit the YWCA of the Greater Capital Region. For every person who joins CDPHP Insights, CDPHP will donate $1 to the YWCA, up to $2,500. 

“I’m excited that CDPHP is partnering with the YWCA of the Capital Region for this inspiring membership drive,” said Victoria Carosella Baecker, director of community relations and corporate events at CDPHP. “We both win – CDPHP Insights, with more people whose opinions we’re interested in hearing, and the YWCA, with donations that will help further their mission of eliminating racism and empowering women within our community.” 

“I am thrilled that CDPHP selected the YWCA of the Greater Capital Region to benefit from this year’s CDPHP Insights membership drive,” said Daquetta P. Jones, executive director of the YWCA of the Greater Capital Region. “This is an opportunity to bring awareness to our mission and the services and programs we offer to empower women and create opportunities to help them reach self-sufficiency. On behalf of our board, staff, and those we serve – thank you!”

CDPHP launched CDPHP Insights in the spring of 2016 as a way of gathering opinions on a variety of topics, from health care and insurance, to nutrition and fitness, and more. The community currently has more than 1,400 active participants providing important feedback.

About CDPHP
Established in 1984, CDPHP is a physician-founded, member-focused and community-based not-for-profit health plan that offers high-quality affordable health insurance plans to members in 26 counties throughout New York. CDPHP is also on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram.CONTACT: Natalia Burkart
CDPHP
518-641-5046
natalia.burkart@cdphp.com Reported by GlobeNewswire 5 hours ago.

Embrace Pet Insurance and Certified Dog Trainer Laura Nativo Partner to Protect Pets & People By Promoting Safe Dog Introductions

$
0
0
New video shares tips for introducing dogs to each other and to new people.

CLEVELAND (PRWEB) November 14, 2018

With the holidays just around the corner and loved ones coming to town, now is the time for pet parents to focus on training their dogs for introductions. In Safety FURst, a new video training series produced by Embrace Pet Insurance, celebrity dog mom and certified dog trainer Laura Nativo shares helpful training tips for introducing dogs to each other and to new people.

“While dogs are naturally social animals that are brilliant in their species-to-species communications, they don’t always automatically get along with each other. It’s important to take care of our dog’s well-being when meeting new dogs and people alike,” advises Nativo. She also notes that the key to a successful introduction is listening to your dog. “Be proactive with your dog by learning to read their body language, enrolling them in socialization classes, or hiring a positive reinforcement trainer to help your pet be less anxious about greetings,” says Nativo. It’s important to recognize that dogs are individuals with their own personalities, and some are inherently less social than others.

Check out Laura’s full list of training tips on how to properly introduce dogs here: https://www.embracepetinsurance.com/waterbowl/article/how-to-safely-introduce-dogs

For additional video resources and information regarding dog training, check out the full Safety FURst series here: https://www.embracepetinsurance.com/waterbowl/safety-furst

About Embrace Pet Insurance
Embrace Pet Insurance is a top-rated pet health insurance provider for dogs and cats in the United States. Embrace offers one simple yet comprehensive accident and illness insurance plan that is underwritten by American Modern Insurance Group, Inc. In addition to insurance, Embrace offers Wellness Rewards, an optional preventative care product that is unique to the industry. Wellness Rewards reimburses for routine veterinary visits, grooming, vaccinations, training, and much more with no itemized limitations. Embrace is a proud member of the North American Pet Health Insurance Association (NAPHIA) and continues to innovate and improve the pet insurance experience for pet parents across the country. For more information about Embrace Pet Insurance, visit http://www.embracepetinsurance.com or call (800) 511-9172

About Laura Nativo
Laura Nativo is a TV host, pet lifestyle expert, Certified Professional Dog Trainer, Karen Pryor Certified Training Partner, and proud dog mom. After appearing on the CBS reality series Greatest American Dog in 2008, Laura embarked on a mission to make the world a better place for pets, in honor of her Pomeranian sidekick, Preston. Ten years later, Laura remains more passionate than ever about the power of positive reinforcement training to better the human-canine bond. Laura served for four years as the resident pet expert “family member” on the Emmy-nominated lifestyle show Home & Family on Hallmark Channel. She hosted two seasons of Dog Park Superstars for the Game Show Network, and has appeared on countless news and talk shows, including The TODAY Show and Inside Edition. Laura is currently in the final stages of development for a new dog TV series that will air on a major cable network. Laura’s three dogs, Preston Casanova (15), Penelope Supafly (8), and Delilah Jane Sassafras (4) all #embraced their work as professional actors, models, and their mom’s demo dogs. Look for them starring in the feature films A Dog & Pony Show and The Puppy Swap. They are the inspiration for Laura’s dedication to helping pet parents communicate with their four-legged best friends. Laura trains dogs all along the California coast, and is determined to make dog training easy, accessible, and fun for both ends of the leash.

### Reported by PRWeb 4 hours ago.

Square wants to make benefits a no-brainer for small businesses

$
0
0
Square wants to make benefits a no-brainer for small businesses· *Payments business Square announced Wednesday it would add benefit offerings to its payroll platform.*
· *This will allow small businesses to give employees access to benefits like health insurance and retirement savings.*
· *This can reduce businesses' payroll tax burden, and after one-time enrollment, it will automatically factor benefits into the payroll.*

For small businesses, it can be difficult to offer employees benefits, but now Square is making it easier.

On Wednesday, Square announced employee benefit offerings with Square Payroll, which allows small businesses to give their employees access to benefits like health insurance, retirement savings, pre-tax spending, and workers' compensation.

"We believe everyone should have access to great benefits and the financial security that comes with it," said Caroline Hollis, head of Square Payroll.

Square surveyed businesses on what to add the Square Payroll, and businesses agreed that adding benefits is one of the most difficult parts. Businesses can face some red tape when it comes to benefits, but by offering benefits, this can help reduce businesses' payroll tax burden.

"We've heard again and again from sellers what a pain point payroll is," said Alyssa Henry, seller lead at Square. "We've heard that many of them are doing it on paper or avoiding taxes."

On Square Payroll, business owners can select benefits that fit their budgets, and after they enroll, the benefits will automatically sync with the payroll. And they can access payroll information such as benefits enrollments and contributions on a dashboard.

--------------------

*Read more: Square, the $30 billion payments company, is finally launching the futuristic cash register it's dreamed of since day one*

--------------------

To make these benefits possible, Square Payroll partnered with companies like SimplyInsured, Guideline 401(k), Alice, and AP Intego.

Square Payroll, which includes features such as tax calculations, payments, and filings, became available nationwide earlier this month. Square launched Payroll after surveying businesses and hearing that managing payroll is one of the most complicated and stressful parts of running a business.

Just last month, Square also launched the Square Terminal, a portable, all-in-one card processing device also designed for small businesses.

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: This company spent 10 years developing a product that allows humans to scale walls like a gecko Reported by Business Insider 4 hours ago.

PHARMAGEST INTERACTIVE: Q3 2018 revenue: + 19.20 %

$
0
0
Villers-lès-Nancy, 14 November 2018 - 6:00 p.m. (CET)

*PRESS RELEASE*

· *Q3 2018 revenue: + 19.20 %*
· *9 month revenue: + 15.69 %*
· *Very positive outlook for international markets*

*€m (IFRS 15)* *2018* *2017* *Change*
Q1 34.59 30.83  + 12.19 %
Q2 37.56 32.44  + 15.81 %
*Q3 **(unaudited)* *35.43* *29.72* *+ 19.20 %*
9 month YTD 107.58 92.99 + 15.69 %

· Application of IFRS 15 "Revenue from contracts with customers" as from 1 January 2018. All figures presented in the press release have been restated to eliminate the impact of IFRS 15's application. 

       In Q3 2018, the impact for the Group of IFRS 15's application is €5.03 million on a restated basis. Year-to-date at 30 September 2018, the impact for the Group of IFRS 15's application is €16.96 million on a restated basis. These changes are derived almost entirely from the Fintech Division, with the impact on the other activities nonsignificant.
     
   ·       Pharmagest Group achieved excellent performances in Q3 2018 with revenue reaching €35.43 million up 19.20% from Q3 2017 (€29.72 million).

       Like-for-like (restatement of CAREMEDS-MULTIMEDS, AXIGATE, MACROSOFT HOLDING), Q3 2018 revenue amounted to €34.09 million, already representing solid growth of 14.69% vs. Q3 2017.
    
   ·       All Pharmagest Group Divisions registered gains and contributed to this performance.
        
   ·       For the first nine months of 2018, revenue reached €107.58 million with 15.69% growth same period last year. Like-for-like (excluding the acquisitions of CAREMEDS-MULTIMEDS, AXIGATE, MACROSOFT HOLDING), revenue year-to-date was €101.11 million, up 8.74% compared to the first nine months of 2017.
              
    **********
 *Operating highlights at 30 September 2018*

· *The Pharmacy - Europe Solutions Division* was up 14.63% (vs. Q3 2017) on revenue of €27.20 million. At 30 September 2018, the Division sustained a good level of growth (+11.77% in relation to 30/09/2017) with revenue of €83.53 million; the Italy Pharmacy Business Line contributed €3.65 million since its integration on 01/04/2018. This Division accounts for 77.65% of the Group's total revenue.
 
· *The Health and Social Care Facilities Solutions Division* confirmed its very strong momentum in Q3 2018, up 61.36% with revenue reaching €5.10 million. This excellent performance was boosted by the effects of MALTA/DICSIT's commercial entities restructuring and the integration of the first results of the AXIGATE solution linked to the call for tenders of the Armor regional hospital group awarded in 05/2018 (€1.9 million in Q3 2018). At 30 September 2018, this Division had revenue of €13.95 million, up 47.64% from 30 September 2017 and representing 12.97% of the Group's total revenue.
 
· *The e-Health Solutions Division* had revenue of €2.76 million, up 8.71% from the Q3 2017. The e-Connect Business Line, benefiting from the impact of the SMR (Shared Medical Record), contributed €2.09 million. At 30 September 2018, this Division had revenue of €8.83 million (including €0.95 million from the integration of CAREMEDS-MULTIMEDS), up 13.33% from one year earlier and representing 8.21% of the Group's total revenue.
 
· *The Fintech Division* achieved further gains in Q3 2018 with revenue maintaining the pace of 25% registered at 30 June (revenue: €0.37 million). This Division at 30 September 2018 had revenue of €1.27 million compared to €1.01 million one year earlier and representing 1.18% of the Group's total revenue.

          
          
*Significant events after 30 September*

As part of its strategy to build a global European ecosystem, *the Group is continuing to develop additional technological building blocks to reach new users.* On that basis, its subsidiary MALTA INFORMATIQUE recently confirmed the launch of a new innovative tele-consultation solution for elderly assisted-living facilities (EHPAD) for improving continuity of care and facilitating communication between the patients and their care network (medical and family).

At the same time, *Pharmagest Group is opening up its healthcare platform and building a genuine portfolio of collaborative partnerships.* Most recently, the Group has announced the signature of decisive strategic partnerships:

· through the agreement with Korian (manager of the largest European network of nursing homes, specialised clinics, assisted living facilities, home-based care and hospitalisations), Pharmagest Group reinforces its position as a leading provider of innovative assisted living solutions by helping seniors remain in their homes while demonstrating CareLib home-based care digital solutions in action;
· by partnering with the Nancy Regional and University Hospital in implementing a remote monitoring solution for chronic kidney disease patients through its eNephro solution, the Group demonstrates the efficacy of its telemedicine and AI solution when applied to a chronic illness. This system was moreover qualified for the French ETAPES programme (experimental telemedicine solutions for improving health care pathways) spearheaded by the French Directorate-General for Healthcare Services (Direction Générale de l'Offre de Soins or DGOS). This entity ensures the coverage of financial costs and reimbursement by the French health insurance system for monitoring patients in certain dialysis units (UAD - autonomous dialysis units), (UDM - medical supervised dialysis). This advance thus highlights the originality and innovation of this technology and supports Pharmagest Group's ambitions to develop and test new telemedicine and remote monitoring solutions;
· by combining its software expertise with that of Cegedim, these major two providers of technological innovations for healthcare will propose a reliable and secure system for exchanging information providing interoperability for all healthcare professionals in both the non-hospital and hospital segments, and in this way contribute to greater efficiencies across healthcare pathways in France and improve patient care.

*Outlook*

With solid growth to date that will contribute positively to FY 2018 earnings, Pharmagest Group's management is confident in meeting its targets at year-end. 

In Europe, Pharmagest Group has ramped up communications initiatives and the presentation of its innovative solutions and will continue its policy of developing strategic technological partnerships.

In international markets, the recent expansion of the Group's offerings is opening up new opportunities and growth prospects for its businesses outside of Europe. The Group confirms its upcoming participation in leading international trade fairs (MEDICA in Düsseldorf, 12-15 Nov. 2018 and CES Las Vegas, 8-11 Jan. 2019). It also intends to build on the recent achievement of Box Noviacare(TM) as the Product of the Year Award and Gold Award Winner in the Innovation and Technology category at the Hong Kong Electronics Fair to raise the visibility of its offering and illustrate the relevance of its solutions. This recognition further bolsters its promising growth prospects, particularly in Asia, for all its innovative technologies.

*Financial calendar:*

· Publication of 2018 annual revenue: 14 February 2019

*About PHARMAGEST Group**:*

Pharmagest Group is the French pharmacy information technology leader, with a market share of more than 42% and more than 1,000 employees. The Group's strategy is based on a core business of improving healthcare through information technology innovation and developing two priority areas: 1/ Services and technologies for healthcare professionals, with a focus on assisting pharmacies in the area of patient medication compliance; and 2/ technologies for improving the efficacy of healthcare systems.
This strategy is executed through specialised business lines developed by Pharmagest Group: pharmacy IT solutions, e-Health solutions, solutions for healthcare professionals, solutions for pharmaceutical laboratories, connected health devices and apps, and a sales financing marketplace...
These businesses are divided into four divisions: Pharmacy - Europe Solutions, Health and Social Care Facilities Solutions, e-Health Solutions and FinTech.

Listed on Euronext Paris(TM) - Compartment B
Indices: CAC^® SMALL and CAC^® All-Tradable par inclusion
Eligible for the Long-Only Deferred Settlement Service (SRD)
ISIN: FR 0012882389 - Reuters: PHA.PA  - Bloomberg: - PMGI FP

*For all the latest news go to *www.pharmagest.com

*CONTACTS*

*Analyst and Investor Relations : *
Chief Administrative and Financial Officer : Jean-Yves SAMSON
Tel. +33 (0)3 83 15 90 67 - jean-yves.samson@lacooperativewelcoop.com

*Media Relations: *
FIN'EXTENSO - Isabelle APRILE
Tel. +33 (0)1 39 97 61 22 - i.aprile@finextenso.fr

*Attachment*

· PHARMAGEST INTERACTIVE: Q3 2018 revenue: + 19.20 %.pdf Reported by GlobeNewswire 4 hours ago.

Solid start for 2019 enrollment to Washington’s health insurance exchange; enrollment is up statewide

$
0
0
The open enrollment period for Washington state's health insurance exchange began Thursday. The enrollment period will close a month earlier than last year. Reported by Seattle Times 1 week ago.

Highmark Health's Karen L. Hanlon Named "2018 CFO of the Year" Award Winner by the Pittsburgh Business Times

$
0
0
Karen L. Hanlon, executive vice president, chief operating officer and chief financial officer of Highmark Health was named a 2018 CFO of the Year award winner by the Pittsburgh Business Times on Nov. 7. The award recognizes Hanlon for her outstanding corporate financial stewardship.

PITTSBURGH (PRWEB) November 08, 2018

Karen L. Hanlon, executive vice president, chief operating officer and chief financial officer of Highmark Health was named a “2018 CFO of the Year” award winner in a ceremony hosted by the Pittsburgh Business Times on Nov. 7. The award recognizes Hanlon for her outstanding corporate financial stewardship.

A certified public accountant and member of the finance team since 1997, Hanlon has served as Highmark Health’s CFO since 2014 and was additionally named its chief operating officer in July 2018. In addition to having oversight of the corporation’s financial success, Hanlon oversees its long-term operations as it focuses on bringing transformational value-based care to customers and growing beyond traditional health care models and core markets.

“Karen Hanlon’s recognition as a CFO of the Year is well deserved,” said David L. Holmberg, president and CEO of Highmark Health. “On behalf of our more than 40,000 employees, we thank Karen for her superb financial stewardship. She has been pivotal in the growth and stability of Highmark Health, and will continue to be instrumental as we transform health care in western Pennsylvania and nationally through the Highmark Health Plan, Allegheny Health Network, United Concordia Dental, Visionworks and our other businesses.”

In addition to serving on the executive leadership team at Highmark Health, Hanlon sits on the board of directors of Gateway Health and Penn State Health and previously served on the boards and as treasurer for the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Pittsburgh and Leadership Pittsburgh. She is a 15-year member of the Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants.

“I’ve had the benefit of working on some of our most significant strategic initiatives at Highmark, Allegheny Health Network, and Highmark Health,” said Hanlon. “This gave me the opportunity to be connected directly to our various businesses and to build relationships throughout the organization. The knowledge I gained and the relationships built through this work were critical in preparing me to become CFO.

“The array of topics I work on in a given day goes beyond what I ever thought I would do,” Hanlon added. “I’m fortunate to be working for a progressive, growing company. This has afforded me the opportunity to work on some pretty exciting things, and I look forward to continuing to work with all of my colleagues as we successfully transform health care.”

About Highmark Health
Highmark Health, a Pittsburgh, PA-based company, that, together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, collectively employ more than 40,000 people and serve millions of Americans across the country, is the second largest integrated health care delivery and financing network in the nation based on revenue. Highmark Health is the parent company of Highmark Inc., Allegheny Health Network, and HM Health Solutions. Highmark Inc. and its subsidiaries and affiliates provide health insurance to nearly 5 million members in Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Delaware as well as dental insurance, vision care and related health products through a national network of diversified businesses that include United Concordia Companies, HM Insurance Group, and Visionworks. Allegheny Health Network is the parent company of an integrated delivery network that includes eight hospitals, more than 2,400 affiliated physicians, ambulatory surgery centers, an employed physician organization, home and community-based health services, a research institute, a group purchasing organization, and health and wellness pavilions in western Pennsylvania. HM Health Solutions focuses on meeting the information technology platform and other business needs of the Highmark Health enterprise as well as unaffiliated health insurance plans by providing proven business processes, expert knowledge and integrated cloud-based platforms. To learn more, please visit http://www.highmarkhealth.org. Reported by PRWeb 1 week ago.

UnitedHealthcare offer provides free Apple Watch Series 3 if customers exercise daily

$
0
0
U.S. Health insurance firm UnitedHealthcare has opened up the option to acquire an Apple Watch Series 3 to its customers as part of its Motion program, with the Apple wearable device potentially free if daily fitness goals are met for a six-month period. Reported by AppleInsider 10 hours ago.

NN Group reports 3Q18 results

$
0
0
· Operating result ongoing business EUR 463 million, up 7.4% from 3Q17, reflecting an improved underwriting performance at Netherlands Non-life, higher dividends at Netherlands Life, as well as lower expenses
· Net result of EUR 788 million, up 7.3% from 3Q17, reflecting the higher operating result and an additional divestment result related to ING Life Korea
· Further cost reductions of EUR 33 million in 3Q18, bringing total cost reductions achieved to date to EUR 269 million
· Solvency II ratio increased to 239% from 226% at 2Q18, reflecting operating capital generation and positive market impacts
· Holding company cash capital increased to EUR 1,899 million, including EUR 338 million dividends received from subsidiaries

*Statement of Lard Friese, CEO*

'We look back on a quarter in which our business performed well, and we again delivered a solid set of results. The 7% increase in the operating result was supported by an improved underwriting performance in both the D&A and P&C portfolios of Netherlands Non-life and higher dividends at Netherlands Life, as well as lower expenses. The Non-life results have shown gradual improvement over the past few quarters, and in the third quarter benefited from favourable claims experience. However claims experience is volatile by nature, and we will continue to implement measures in order to structurally improve the combined ratio. New sales in the third quarter were down on last year at Netherlands Life as well as Japan Life, which continues to see intensifying competition in the COLI market. Additionally, new sales at Insurance Europe were impacted by currency effects and adverse economic conditions in Turkey.

Our continued focus on the successful integration of Delta Lloyd and on increasing efficiency is reflected in further cost savings of EUR 33 million at the units in scope of the integration, bringing total cost reductions to EUR 269 million compared with the 2016 full-year administrative expense base.

Our balance sheet remained strong with a Solvency II ratio of 239%, and a cash capital position of EUR 1.9 billion at the end of the third quarter.

As an international financial services company, we aim to create long-term value, and we want to contribute to society by further integrating environmental, social and governance (ESG) criteria into our decision making. To this end, we recently strengthened our responsible investment approach and restricted investments in companies involved in oil sands production and controversial pipelines, given the related concerns around human rights and environmental pollution. NN Group was again included in the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices (DJSI), both in the World and Europe index.

This quarter's performance confirms that we are progressing well in executing our strategy, which focuses on successfully integrating Delta Lloyd, further improving performance, accelerating the transformation of the business model and continuing to allocate capital rationally. This will ensure a sustainable business for tomorrow, helping people secure their financial futures.'

*NN Group key figures*

In EUR million *3Q18* 3Q17 Change 9M18 9M17 Change
             
Operating result ongoing business^1) 463 431 7.4% 1,283 1,241 3.4%
Net result 788 734 7.3% 1,650 1,410 17.0%
             
  *3Q18* 2Q18 3Q17      
Solvency II ratio^2) 239% 226% 204%      

Note: All footnotes are included on page 26

*Strategy and priorities*

Our businesses are built on a solid foundation of purpose, values and brand attributes, which, combined with a strong focus on our strategic priorities, enables us to create long-term value. This is how we deliver on our ambition to be a company that truly matters in the lives of our stakeholders.

*Netherlands*

In line with NN's strategic focus to be more digital, personal and relevant in interactions with its customers, several new products, services, and initiatives were introduced during the quarter. For example, NN Bank launched the Senior Citizens' Residence mortgage, allowing people of 57 years and older to finance a new, smaller home, as well as the Expat Mortgage, with a tailored acceptance policy for expats wanting to settle in the Netherlands.

BeFrank introduced a Sustainable Impact Dashboard which allows employees of pension schemes to monitor the impact of their contributions on waste production, water consumption and CO2 emission, when opting for the sustainable investment mix. BeFrank is the first pension provider to offer this option to contribute to a better environment.

On 8 November, health insurance premiums for 2019 were announced. Following the rebranding of Delta Lloyd health insurance, the first NN health insurance campaign was launched aimed at attracting new customers for NN's health insurance product. NN health insurance offers a free choice of healthcare providers, access to the best medical specialists, and waiting list mediation.

OHRA introduced a solution specifically designed for self-employed workers to provide insurance cover of their business risks, for example legal assistance, liability insurance, and insurance for theft and damage of laptops and tablets.

On 18 September, Nationale-Nederlanden and ABN AMRO Verzekeringen were awarded the highest rating for their legal assistance insurance, and Nationale-Nederlanden and OHRA received the highest rating for their individual liability insurance. These ratings were awarded by MoneyView, an independent research institute that collects information about financial products.

*International Insurance*

In January 2018, Sparklab Turkey successfully launched a pilot project in response to the Pillar II pension regulation, introduced at the beginning of the year. The Project 'NN Ekstra' is a digital-lead generation and distribution platform that incentivises partners to act on behalf of NN. The platform directly forwards its users to NN's digital platform, helps to create master contracts, and facilitates the process to on-board employees of pension clients. Since the beginning of this year, NN Ekstra digitally on-boarded 275 new companies and more than 7,000 new employees.

Nationale-Nederlanden in Poland launched an accidental health insurance for children. This new product, which is sold online, includes care assistance covering doctors' visits, prescriptions, and private lessons during long absences from school, as well as medical assistance providing help in arranging doctors' visits.

The Non-life business in Belgium introduced the service 'My Advisor@Home' in April. When a customer's property suffers heavy damages, an advisor visits within 24 hours, and helps to take care of all necessary arrangements and repairs throughout the claims handling process. This concept is offered through ING, and fits perfectly with NN's brand promise 'You matter'. This service has been very well received by NN's customers, as reflected in high customer satisfaction scores.

NN Life Japan continues to develop new COLI products, and expand and diversify its distribution within the increasingly competitive COLI market, with a focus on value over volume. COLI sales through Sumitomo Life accounted for 11% of NN Life Japan's total sales in the third quarter of 2018. Sumitomo Life agents started offering NN Life Japan's Accelerated Living Disability Benefit and Increasing Term products from the beginning of April 2017, and Critical Illness insurance from April 2018. In addition, Protection sales increased by 77% compared with the same quarter last year, on the back of product repricing and higher sales of the Emergency Plus product.

In September, NN Life Japan started providing a new online sales tool to Sumitomo Life, enabling its tied agents to easily advise potential customers about NN Life Japan's products and the details of insurance applications at any time.

The international business continues to roll out digital tools to support NN's distribution partners, for example, NN's businesses in the Czech Republic and Slovakia launched a user-friendly digital sales platform, 'NN Stela', in order to improve customer experience.

*Asset Management*

NN Investment Partners (NN IP) in Poland became the country's first asset manager to launch a risk-profiling tool with a robo-matching module, which helps customers decide in which funds to invest. As mutual funds are a complex product to offer through online channels, this solution makes it easier for potential clients to start investing online.

In July, NN IP Japan and Rakuten Securities announced the launch of a new investment service called 'Target Year Wrap'. With this new service, Rakuten Securities provides retail investors with a customised investment solution.

NN IP's Dutch Residential Mortgage Fund surpassed the EUR 2 billion mark. Since its inception in November 2015, the fund has grown steadily, as institutional investors are increasingly keen to invest in Dutch mortgages in the current low-yield environment. More and more foreign investors have also shown interest, and the fund has been passported to amongst others Belgium, Germany, France, the UK and Spain.

The Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI) again awarded NN IP the top A+ score for its Strategy & Governance approach to responsible investing and ESG integration. NN IP has been a signatory of the United Nations-supported PRI since 2008, and has been active in responsible investing since 1999.

*Other events*

NN's branding strategy is geared towards building long-term relationships with the communities we operate in. Our running sponsorship fits well with our company's values and our aim to contribute to people's well-being. In 2017, NN and its partners launched the first professional running team in the world. Since then, the team's athletes have achieved 82 victories. In September 2018, Eliud Kipchoge, member of the running team, made international headlines when he broke the existing world record at the 2018 BMW Berlin marathon.

NN Bulgaria received a special award in recognition of its work to inspire the country's students to be entrepreneurial and improve their financial literacy. As part of its efforts, NN Bulgaria launched the textbook, 'Personal Finance: Introduction', for students in non-economic specialties. This textbook aims to help young people understand, plan, and manage their personal finances. The long-term goal of the project is to introduce a 'Personal Finance' course at higher education institutions.

*NN Group Profile*

NN Group is an international financial services company, active in 18 countries, with a strong presence in a number of European countries and Japan. With all its employees, the Group provides retirement services, pensions, insurance, investments and banking to approximately 17 million customers. NN Group includes Nationale-Nederlanden, NN, Delta Lloyd, NN Investment Partners, ABN AMRO Insurance, Movir, AZL, BeFrank and OHRA. NN Group is listed on Euronext Amsterdam (NN).

*Analyst call*

Lard Friese and Delfin Rueda will host an analyst and investor conference call to discuss the 3Q18 results at 10.30 am CET on Thursday 15 November 2018. Members of the investment community can join the conference call at +31 20 531 5865    (NL), +44 203 365 3210    (UK), +1 866 349 6093    (US) or follow the webcast on www.nn-group.com.

*Press*

Lard Friese and Delfin Rueda will host a press call to discuss the 3Q18 results, which will be held at 07.45 am CET on Thursday 15 November 2018. Journalists can join the press call at +31 20 531 5863    (NL).

*Financial calendar*

Publication 4Q18 results: 14 February 2019 Publication 1Q19 results: 16 May 2019   Annual General Meeting: 29 May 2019 Publication 2Q19 results: 15 August 2019

*Contact information*

*Press enquiries*

Media Relations
+31 70 513 1918   
mediarelations@nn-group.com   *Investor enquiries*

Investor Relations
+31 88 663 5464   
investor.relations@nn-group.com

*Additional information on www.nn-group.com*

· NN Group 3Q18 Financial Supplement, NN Group 3Q18 Analyst Presentation
· NN Group 30 September 2018 Condensed consolidated interim accounts
· Photos of NN Group executives, buildings and events are available for download at Flickr

*Important legal information*

Elements of this press release contain or may contain information about NN Group N.V. within the meaning of Article 7(1) to (4) of EU Regulation No 596/ 2014 (Market Abuse Regulation). NN Group's Consolidated Annual Accounts are prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by the European Union ("IFRS-EU") and with Part 9 of Book 2 on the Dutch Civil Code. In preparing the financial information in this document, the same accounting principles are applied as in the NN Group N.V. Condensed consolidated interim accounts for the period ended 30 September 2018.

All figures in this document are unaudited. Small differences are possible in the tables due to rounding. Certain of the statements contained herein are not historical facts, including, without limitation, certain statements made of future expectations and other forward-looking statements that are based on management's current views and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. Actual results, performance or events may differ materially from those in such statements due to, without limitation: (1) changes in general economic conditions, in particular economic conditions in NN Group's core markets, (2) changes in performance of financial markets, including developing markets, (3) consequences of a potential (partial) break-up of the euro or European Union countries leaving the European Union, (4) changes in the availability of, and costs associated with, sources of liquidity as well as conditions in the credit markets generally, (5) the frequency and severity of insured loss events, (6) changes affecting mortality and morbidity levels and trends, (7) changes affecting persistency levels, (8) changes affecting interest rate levels, (9) changes affecting currency exchange rates, (10) changes in investor, customer and policyholder behaviour, (11) changes in general competitive factors, (12) changes in laws and regulations and the interpretation and application thereof, (13) changes in the policies and actions of governments and/or regulatory authorities, (14) conclusions with regard to accounting assumptions and methodologies, (15) changes in ownership that could affect the future availability to NN Group of net operating loss, net capital and built-in loss carry forwards, (16) changes in credit and financial strength ratings, (17) NN Group's ability to achieve projected operational synergies, (18) catastrophes and terrorist-related events, (19) adverse developments in legal and other proceedings and (20) the other risks and uncertainties contained in recent public disclosures made by NN Group.

Any forward-looking statements made by or on behalf of NN Group speak only as of the date they are made, and, NN Group assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information or for any other reason.
This document does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities.

*Attachment*

· NN_Group_Press_Release 3Q18.pdf Reported by GlobeNewswire 1 hour ago.

Uber launches fuel price index to boost driver income; to be rolled out first in Mumbai

$
0
0
Uber is also working towards providing driver partners access to health insurance, life insurance and micro-loans and a host of other benefits aimed at improving their welfare Reported by Firstpost 1 hour ago.

United States: Proposed Regulations Would Permit Employers To Reimburse An Employee's Premium Costs For A Health Insurance Policy Purchased In The Individual Market - Foley & Lardner

$
0
0
Takeaway Message: Except in limited circumstances, current regulatory guidance prohibits an employer from maintaining a health reimbursement arrangement (HRA) Reported by Mondaq 16 hours ago.

ATA Announces the Addition of New Board Members

$
0
0
ATA Expands Payer Perspective of its Board of Directors

(PRWEB) November 15, 2018

The American Telemedicine Association (ATA) announced recently that it has appointed Elizabeth Bierbower, Segment President at Humana Inc., and Robin Glasco, a healthcare innovator with over two decades of health insurance industry experience. With the addition of the new appointments, the ATA Board of Directors expands to sixteen members.

"Following an extensive search for qualified candidates, we are pleased to welcome Elizabeth and Robin to our board and look forward to the contributions they will make," said Andrew Watson, President of the ATA. "They join the ATA at an exciting time as we continue to drive our mission of changing the way people think about telehealth and virtual care with a new approach, brand identity and outlook on the industry.”

Elizabeth Bierbower has been Segment President at Humana Inc. since 2012 and has held a number of positions within the organization. During her career at Humana, Bierbower led Humana's employer, specialty and Military businesses,and product innovation efforts. Currently, Bierbower is leading an internal, experience-based initiative for the company.

Robin Glasco is a healthcare innovator with more than 20 years of experience in health care strategy and development. Most recently, Glasco served as Chief Innovation Officer at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts. She has deep expertise in operational performance, analytics, market strategy, and business process improvement, having served in several leadership roles across various functions in her 17 years with Kaiser Permanente.

“Now more than ever we are eager to build deeper relationships with our members. And, as we do that, we’re also expanding the definition of who we are as an association, becoming more inclusive as new capabilities arise that can help consumers and providers alike, said Ann Mond Johnson, CEO of ATA. “The addition of Beth and Robin to our board complements these strategic efforts, and we are confident that with their skills and rich experiences in the carrier world, they will provide valuable insight. We look forward to their contributions and are excited they chose the ATA.”

###

About the American Telemedicine Association (ATA)
As the only organization completely focused on telehealth, the ATA is working to change the way the world thinks about telemedicine and virtual care. We are committed to ensuring that everyone has access to safe, affordable, and effective care when and where they need it, and that providers are able to do more good for more people. We represent a broad and inclusive member network of technology solution providers, healthcare delivery systems, and payers, as well as partner organizations and alliances. Together, we are working to enhance the visibility of telehealth, promote responsible policy, and provide education and resources to help integrate virtual care into emerging value-based delivery models. To learn more about the ATA, visit http://www.americantelemed.org. Reported by PRWeb 1 day ago.

Medicare Recipients Can Be Denied Supplemental Medigap Coverage Due to Pre-Existing Conditions, Says The Senior Citizens League

$
0
0
There are no federal pre-existing condition protections for retirees who want to leave their Medicare Advantage plan. This could result in some medicare recipients being denied medigap coverage.

WASHINGTON (PRWEB) November 15, 2018

Older adults who are considering dropping their Medicare Advantage plan to return to “traditional” Medicare and a supplemental Medigap policy are urged to get counseling before canceling their health plan, warns The Senior Citizens League. “There are no federal pre-existing condition protections for retirees who want to leave their Medicare Advantage plan, which allows individuals to buy a Medigap policy. This is also the case for people who already have a Medigap policy, and who just want to switch to a different one,” says Mary Johnson, a Medicare policy analyst for The Senior Citizens League. “Older adults can be denied coverage by Medigap insurers due to pre-existing medical conditions, because of the lack of ‘guaranteed issue’ protections,” Johnson says.

Depending on the plans selected, Medigap policies cover some or all of Medicare-covered out-of-pocket costs. These include deductibles, and co-insurance. Johnson notes that the guaranteed issue protections that Medicare recipients enjoy when they enroll in Medicare Advantage and free-standing Part D plans – which allow plan enrollees to shop and switch plans annually – don’t apply to Medigap policies.

When guaranteed issue rights apply, the insurer must sell consumers a policy that covers all pre-existing conditions, and cannot charge more for the policy because of past or current health problems. Older adults who want to purchase a Medigap policy, however, only have a one-time, 6-month initial enrollment period that begins when they first enroll in Medicare Part B. “While there are a few exceptions for special circumstances, retirees who give up their Medigap supplement or retirees who want to try Medigap after being enrolled in Medicare Advantage for more than 12 months have missed the opportunity to get a supplement in the future,” Johnson says.

Only four states require either continuous or annual guaranteed issue protections for Medigap for all beneficiaries in the original Medicare (California, Connecticut, Maine, and New York). There are a few special exceptions, such as when a Medicare Advantage plan is leaving Medicare or moving out of the enrollee’s coverage area. There’s also an exception if an enrollee first joins a Medicare Advantage Plan when first eligible at 65 and then decides to switch to traditional Medicare within the first year of joining. The Medicare website, http://www.Medicare.gov, outlines the special circumstances under which beneficiaries may qualify for Medigap guaranteed issue rules.

The Senior Citizens League recommends that people shopping for a new health plan get free unbiased one-on-one assistance from a State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) counselor. The programs vary in name depending on location, but many operate out of Agencies on Aging, local senior centers, and social services departments.

The Senior Citizens League believes guaranteed issue rules for all private Medicare insurance plans and supplements should be made consistent, to allow purchasers of Medigap supplements to compare policies and switch to better or lower-costing ones, in the same way that beneficiaries already can for Medicare Advantage and Part D plans.

With 1.2 million supporters, The Senior Citizens League is one of the nation’s largest nonpartisan seniors groups. Its mission is to promote and assist members and supporters, to educate and alert senior citizens about their rights and freedoms as U.S. Citizens, and to protect and defend the benefits senior citizens have earned and paid for. The Senior Citizens League is a proud affiliate of The Retired Enlisted Association. Visit http://www.SeniorsLeague.org for more information. Reported by PRWeb 23 hours ago.

United Capital Partners Enlists Medicare BackOffice as Resource for Financial Advisors

$
0
0
Medicare BackOffice Solves Firm’s Challenge: How to Support Financial Advisors Facing Increased Consumer Demand for Managing Health Care Costs in Retirement

OMAHA, Nebraska (PRWEB) November 15, 2018

As the financial planning industry grapples with how to help clients manage the growing expense of health care in retirement, United Capital Partners has found a solution by partnering with Medicare BackOffice.

The partnership with United Capital allows its more than 220 Financial Advisors nationwide to refer clients with Medicare questions to Medicare BackOffice, a team of insurance agents licensed, contracted and certified in all 50 states to provide Medicare advice and products. While Medicare BackOffice agents ultimately work directly with consumers, the company’s initial customers are financial advisors or other professionals who want to help their clients navigate Medicare while continuing to concentrate on their primary business.

Heather Kelly, United Capital’s Vice President of Risk Management, said that escalating health care costs and longer life expectancies have prompted clients to make informed decisions on how to pay for health care in retirement.

“At United Capital, we pride ourselves in helping our clients make decisions that are right for them. That is why we chose to partner with Medicare BackOffice. Their level of expertise, depth of experience and shared ethos of always putting their clients’ interest ahead of their own align perfectly with who we are at United Capital,” Kelly said. “Through this partnership, our Advisors can now refer clients to the Medicare BackOffice agents, who can better answer their Medicare plan questions, compare plans and maybe even help them find potential cost savings. It’s more efficient for us, and it’s the right thing to do for our clients.”

Health care cost inflation is expected to rise, according to the 2018 Retirement Healthcare Costs Data Report by health data provider HealthView Services. The average lifetime retirement health care premium costs for a 65-year-old healthy couple retiring this year and covered by Medicare Part B, Part D, and a supplemental insurance policy will be $363,946, according to the report. A 55-year-old couple retiring in 10 years can expect to pay $387,814 in total lifetime health care costs.

“We created Medicare BackOffice, because we saw the need for financial advisors and other professionals to help their clients manage these inflating costs,” said Brian Hickey, Medicare BackOffice Vice President. “We help their clients with their initial Medicare enrollment and then on an annual basis with a free plan review during Medicare’s open enrollment. This ongoing management helps the financial planning professional stay focused on what they do best, knowing we are helping their client keep an eye on health care costs.”

Medicare BackOffice keeps its partners up-to-date on important Medicare news and enrollment dates with its partner eNewsletter. It also provides client-facing materials to help partners educate clients and even market their health care cost-management services.

“By giving our partners the basic Medicare knowledge they need, we help them avoid being blindsided by clients’ Medicare questions or Medicare rules,” Hickey said. “No one can become an immediate expert on Medicare, because it’s just too complicated. But by sharing our knowledge and providing our services, we help our partners and their clients with this important piece of the clients’ financial picture.”

About Medicare BackOffice
Based in Omaha, Nebraska, Medicare BackOffice is a support service for broker-dealers, independent financial advisors, insurance agents and other professionals, helping their clients find the right Medicare health insurance plan. Professionals simply refer clients to Medicare BackOffice’s team of dedicated insurance agents, who are licensed, contracted and certified in all 50 states to provide Medicare advice and products from insurance carriers that are “A”-rated or better. By making clients’ search for Medicare answers easier and stress-free, Medicare BackOffice strengthens the referring professional’s relationship with clients. For more information, visit MedicareBackOffice.com. Medicare BackOffice is not connected with or endorsed by the United States government or the federal Medicare program. Insurance services provided by Insuractive, Inc.        

About United Capital
United Capital Financial Partners, Inc., the parent company of United Capital Financial Advisers, LLC (“United Capital”) and its consulting affiliate, is an independent financial life management firm, ranked #2 in the Barron’s 2018 list of Top 40 RIAs Firms. United Capital is a Registered Investment Adviser (RIA) offering client objective advice and an open architecture platform that enables a wide array of investment management solutions tailored specifically to client needs. Today, United Capital has approximately $21.6 billion in assets under management and 86 offices nationwide. For more information, please visit http://www.unitedcp.com.
Media Contact: Jimmy Moock
Phone: 610-228-2125
jimmy(at)gregoryfca.com
Gregory FCA for United Capital Reported by PRWeb 21 hours ago.

UnitedHealthcare offers up (nearly) free Apple Watch devices as part of wellness program

$
0
0
A UnitedHealthcare corporate-wellness program will now reward participants who take enough steps daily with a nearly-free Apple Watch, the health insurance giant says. Employees enrolled in the insurer's Motion program must initially pay shipping fees and taxes for the watch, but will get to keep it if they walk 10,000 steps daily. Participants will earn $4 each day they meet activity requirements if they choose the insurer's "Walk it Off" option. That money can go toward the purchase price of the… Reported by bizjournals 20 hours ago.

We got the first look at Oscar's financials since Alphabet made its massive investment — and the health insurer's losses are narrowing

$
0
0
We got the first look at Oscar's financials since Alphabet made its massive investment — and the health insurer's losses are narrowing· Health insurance startup Oscar Health just came out with its third-quarter results. 
· According to state insurance filings compiled by Business Insider, for the first nine months of 2018, Oscar lost $12 million. That's significantly less of a loss than a year ago when it reported a $96 million loss. 
· It's the first time we've seen results from the company that took place after Alphabet invested $375 million in the company. 

2018 is shaping up to be a better year for Oscar Health, a hot Obamacare startup that drew a massive investment from Google's parent company in August.

Oscar lost $12 million in the first nine months of 2018, according to state insurance filings compiled by Business Insider.

That's significantly less of loss than the company experienced a year ago, when it reported a $96 million loss.

Oscar currently offers health insurance plans on the Obamacare marketplace in New York, New Jersey, California, Ohio, Texas and Tennessee. It also sells plans for small employers. The company has already announced plans to sell in more states for next year, and eventually plans to expand into the market for private health insurance plans for seniors, known as Medicare Advantage.

*Read more: *Oscar Health is making a big bet on personalized care that people traditionally spend as much as $40,000 on

Other notable figures for the first nine months of the year, according to the filings: 

· Oscar's revenue across six states was $539 million.
· The company paid out $418 million in medical expenses for its customers. 
· There were about 227,000 total members as of September 30.

Oscar's financial results are affected by a reinsurance deal that the company entered into with Axa last year. A portion of the premiums that Oscar collects are sent to Axa, a massive French insurance company. In return, Axa agrees to share a portion of Oscar's profits or losses. 

If you add back in the money that was sent to Axa, Oscar took in $934 million in gross premiums across its states in the first nine months of this year, the company said. That puts it on track to hit its $1 billion in premiums target by the end of 2018. 

*Alphabet backing*

Oscar in August got $375 million from Google's parent company Alphabet to bring its tech-backed health insurance plans to more people. In total, the company has now raised more than $1 billion. Its last-reported valuation was $3.2 billion, before the Alphabet investment.

Co-founded in 2012 by Josh Kushner, whose brother Jared is a senior adviser to President Donald Trump, Oscar Health is a health-insurance startup that got its start operating on the Affordable Care Act's insurance exchanges. The goal is to be a more consumer-friendly insurance option by integrating technology.

Mario Schlosser is Oscar's chief executive officer, and also a co-founder.

In 2019, Oscar plans to be in nine states, expanding into Florida, Arizona and Michigan.

The company also plans to go beyond the individual exchanges and the small employer market and into the Medicare Advantage market. When seniors in the US turn 65, they can choose to be part of either traditional Medicare or Medicare Advantage, which is operated through private insurers like Oscar and often provides additional healthcare benefits.

*See also: *

· The billion-dollar healthcare unicorns you should be watching in 2018
· Investors including Andreessen Horowitz just made a $300 million bet that a startup can take on healthcare giants at caring for elderly Americans

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: This mind-melting thought experiment of Einstein's reveals how to manipulate time Reported by Business Insider 9 hours ago.
Viewing all 22794 articles
Browse latest View live


Latest Images