Health Care Bill Takes Effect: What You Need to Know
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
What will change on Thursday for Rhode Islanders?
• Rhode Islanders may no longer need to pay upfront for preventive care—copays will be waived, and there will be no cost even if deductibles have not been met. For many people, this change will not go into effect until they renew their health plan or subscribe to a new plan. Find out which office visits and services will be considered “preventive” here.
• Children under 26 may enroll in health insurance through their parents’ plan. Most Rhode Island insurers have already implemented this change. Children are not eligible if they have access to insurance through their employer; however, marriage, student status, dependent status, and location of residence are not considered when determining eligibility. To find out whether you or your children qualify, call your health plan. Details of the federal law pertaining to coverage for children under 26 can be found here.
What changes have already occurred in Rhode Island as a result of health reform?
• Small businesses that offer health insurance to their employees may qualify for a tax credit. As many as 82 percent of small businesses in the state may be eligible this year, as reported by GoLocalProv.
• Chronically ill, uninsured Rhode Islanders may qualify for subsidized health insurance through Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rhode Island. This new “high-risk” pool is funded by the federal government. Contact Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rhode Island for detailed eligibility and enrollment information.
• The Office of the Health Insurance Commissioner has received $1 million from the federal government to enhance and expand its current premium rate review process.
• Seniors in Rhode Island who have hit the Medicare donut hole have received a $250 rebate to defray their prescription drug costs.
• Uninsured or about to lose coverage? Rhode Islanders can find “one-stop shopping” for health insurance at healthcare.gov. This resource, implemented by the federal government, helps Rhode Islanders navigate both public and private options for insurance.
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