Consumer Reports’ Guide to Health Care
September 28 2010
For over 70 years the independent, non-profit Consumers Union has been watching out for the American consumer. Its popular Consumer Reports magazine and consumerreports.org website have for years been trusted guides for shoppers everywhere.
So it's no surprise that the Consumers Union has weighed in to help Americans make decisions in a market that may be more complex that any other: health care.
The organization has been fighting for years to pass health reforms, and has said that they are "Proud to have helped push for its historic passage. Now we are working to ensure the law is implemented fairly and that consumers fully benefit from the changes it will bring."
In the video above, President of the Consumers Union Jim Guest talks a little about the Affordable Care Act:
"There has been a lot of talk and confusion about health reform, but when you actually look at these changes, there are some good reforms here that could help a lot of people."
To help you navigate the oft-challenging health care landscape, the Consumers Union recently released a downloadable guide to health care, and has launched a new website, consumerreportshealth.org.
-
"Under new plans, no child under age 19 will be denied coverage for a pre-existing conditions, period. Adults who have been without insurance for six months and who have been unable to obtain insurance because of a pre-existing condition, can apply for coverage under the Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan (PCIP)."
-
Insurers can no longer cut someone after the fact.
-
New screening procedures are now in place for health care providers to eliminate fraud and waste in the health care system.
-
Medicare Part D enrollees who hit the Medicare prescription drug benefit gap in 2010 will automatically receive a $250 rebate check.
-
Effective immediately, qualified small employers get tax credits of up to 35% of premiums for offering coverage.
Video
America's new health care law makes it easier for you to find the quality, affordable health care that you and your family need.
