The private insurance market changes face today, as several major health care reforms pass from federal law to the public sector. The adjustments are many, and the public has questions as they attempt to decipher the nuances of each item, and how it affects themselves and their families, especially in older generations. The AARP (American Association of Retired Persons) is working to answer questions from its members and all older Americans about how to make the best health care decisions moving forward from this historic day.

AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan social welfare organization with a membership that helps people 50+ have independence, choice and control in ways that are beneficial and affordable to them and society as a whole. AARP does not endorse candidates for public office or make contributions to either political campaigns or candidates.

AARP Senior Vice President Cheryl Matheis states:

Americans of all ages still have questions about the law and what it means for their families. As part of our ongoing effort to answer those questions, we want to give everyone access to clear, objective information about the new benefits and responsibilities these changes will bring. Whether it’s helping a college age child sign up for insurance or knowing what preventive services are available, Americans are looking for reliable information.

Americans buying new plans of coverage today will immediately have access to new benefits.

Health insurance agencies will make the most changes to their systems, but the public needs to understand these adjustments and be clear on their new coverage parameters.

First, insurers will cover preventive care. These procedures include cancer screenings and flu shots, which will all be free of charge.

Second, in a groundbreaking advancement, health insurers can no longer drop coverage (rescission) after a person has been diagnosed. Many companies have not engaged in this practice for some time, but now it will be officially federally illegal.

Lifetime coverage limits can no longer be assessed. Starting today coverage limits can be no lower than $750,000 and by 2014 there will be no minimum coverage enforced. This minimum will be raised annually until then.

The appeal process has often been bogged down by insurance “red tape” until now. Consumers can now appeal to an outside board if an insurer denies coverage for care for necessary visits and procedures.

If a person age 26 or under is uninsured by their place of employment, family polices will mandatorily cover these persons. This already exists in some existing plans, so it is important to consult an agent within your insurer’s organization to find out if this is already the case.

Finally, coverage must be granted to children under age of 19 no matter the circumstance, health history or existing ailments.

Current coverage plans will remain intact with a few immediate additional benefits. For example, parents of adult children will also have the option of including them within their current coverage plans. All current plans will have more added benefits once the next fiscal cycle commences. It is of utmost importance that one communicates with their agency to obtain all coverage details as soon as possible.

Source: AARP

Written by Sy Kraft (B.A.)