This is a key question and the answers, unfortunately are varied and many. Let's walk through what you can expect in terms of major benefit changes along the various options available.
It will range from no changes (grandfathered plans) to significant changes (subsidized plans with cost sharing aspect).
So what can we expect in terms of benefit changes?
If you have not made material changes to your plan since 3/22/2010, you likely have a grandfathered health plan assuming that the carrier continues to offer them (Health Net will not, for example).
Your benefits and rate structure will remain pretty consistent when the clock strikes midnight on 12/31/2013. Most of the mandates do not impact your health plan and unless you qualify for a health subsidy or have a very high rate (relative to new plans), it's probably your best bet to stay on the plan or contact us to look at options.
If you are not on a grandfathered health plan, you will need to move to one of the new plans (either on the Exchange or off the Exchange...more on this later)
The new Covered Ca plans for individuals and families or at renewal for group insurance plans.
These plans are quite different than the plans that have been popular on the market in a few ways.
We'll hit the highlights.
Below are approximate benefits since each carrier can tweak their offerings up to a certain amount.
There are pretty noticeable changes with the new plans.
We'll hit the highlights here:
Apply for Exchange and Off-Exchange Plans
Roughly 80% of pre-ACA California health shoppers pick one of three plans.
Needless to say, they are the least expensive plans on the market.
We expect that most people will choose one of
two plans in the newer regime for the same
reasons depending on whether they qualify for a
health subsidy.
If you qualify for a Health Subsidy and a Cost
Sharing Benefit the Silver health plan in the
Exchange will likely be the plan of choice.
If you qualify for a Health Subsidy but not a
Cost Sharing Benefit, you can choose any plan in
Exchange.
If you do not qualify for a health subsidy, the
Bronze health plan out of the Exchange will
likely be the plan of choice unless you have
very large health expenses and the annual
premium difference between the Bronze and richer
plans (Silver, Gold, and Platinum) doesn't
offset any advantages in benefits you might
receive by upgrading.
We need to know the following:
With this information, we determine which plans and rates might be the best value to you.
Of course, we're happy to walk through any questions you have. Please call at 800-320-6269 or email.
There is no fee for our service and we are
happy to help.