WASHINGTON, D.C., Nov. 20, 2012—The Obama administration has moved forward to implement provisions in the health care law that would make it illegal for insurance companies to discriminate against people with pre-existing conditions. The provisions of the Affordable Care Act also would make it easier for consumers to compare health plans and employers to promote and encourage employee wellness.
Chris LaPorte
ST. PAUL, Minn., Oct. 4, 2012—As reported by Chuck Buck, publisher of the RACmonitor, a sweep of seven U.S. cities by the Medicare Fraud Strike Force has resulted in 91 health-care providers being charged for their alleged participation in Medicare fraud schemes involving approximately $429.2 million in false billing. Attorney General Eric Holder and Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, along with Inspector General Daniel R.
The New England Medical Dealers Association (NEMED) has sent a letter to Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Kathleen Sebelius applauding her for finalizing the Community First Choice rule, but warning that competitive bidding threatens to undermine the new program designed to encourage home care.
Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius last week announced regulations to guide states in the creation of health insurance exchanges required under the Affordable Care Act. Starting in 2014, these one-stop marketplaces will allow consumers and small businesses to choose from a variety of private health insurance plans. Sebelius said the regulations offer states substantial flexibility as they design an insurance marketplace.