Archive for February, 2008
Health Savings Accounts Are They The Future?
Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) were first offered several years ago as alternatives to traditional health care plans. The number of accounts opened by employees between 2005 and 2006 more than doubled. Perhaps they are so popular because they work similar to IRAs, 401Ks and other investment plans where pre-tax dollars are set aside. The funds can be used for deductibles, prescription drugs, and other medical expenses employees may incur throughout the year not covered by their regular health insurance. However, unlike investment accounts that are taxed upon withdrawing money, HSA funds can be freely withdrawn to pay medical expenses completely tax free.
Anthem Insurance Under Investigation
In the state of Ohio, there is an ongoing problem with mental health patients who have Anthem health insurance and are attempting to get help. An investigative team began receiving phone calls from local patients complaining about the health insurance company.
Nigeria Welcomes Community Health Insurance
Three factors contributing to the plight of Nigeria’s rural population – poverty, disease, and lack of information – could be answered by a new community health care plan in Lagos. An HMO (health management organization) called Hygeia Nigeria Limited has incorporated the Hygeia Community Health Plan, of which Mrs. Njide Ndili is managing director.
SDHI Could Widen Availability of Affordable Health Insurance
President Bush has outlined his plan for health care reform with the 2009 fiscal budget requests. Currently in America most employees are encouraged to participate in company-sponsored health plans, free of payroll or income tax, and end up getting more coverage than they really need. The President’s plan, called SDHI (standard deduction for health insurance), will push for a standardized deduction for those covered by health insurance up to $7,500 for individuals and $15,000 for families. This deduction’s specifics are still being debated, but it would also be applied to payroll and income tax.
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