health insurance news

Kaiser Health News – Florida is moving to launch a state health insurance exchange but different from those created under health reform. The Florida marketplace would be open only to small employers, would not provide subsidies to lower-income individuals, and would not require “essential health benefits.”

Orlando Sentinel – If Florida state legislators don’t prove that they’re ready to set up a state health insurance exchange, the federal government is ready to step in.

The New York Times – Florida, New Jersey, Ohio and Tennessee have been granted waivers by the federal government, allowing health insurance carriers to offer less generous benefits than would be required under the new health reform law.

Center for American Progress – Health reform expert Neera Tanden says federal judge’s decision striking down the Affordable Care Act was “wrong on so many counts that it’s hard to begin counting.”

Department of Health and Human Services – Text of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius’ keynote address at the Institute for Healthcare Improvement’s 22nd Annual National Forum on Quality Improvement in Health Care in Orlando, Florida on December 7.

LegalNewsline.com – A total of 20 states have moved to sue the federal government in an attempt to stop implementation of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, arguing that the individual mandate provision is unconstitutional. Another nince states have indicated they support the reform legislation.

Moneyblog – The Justice Department made coordinated raids on Friday at alleged Medicare fraud operations in Florida, Louisiana, New York, Michigan and Texas as the Obama administration launched what is being called the largest attack on health care fraud in U.S. history. What are the steps to avoid Medicare fraud?