News & Updates

National Health Care Reform: 2010 Recap and 2011 Reminders
In 2010, national health care reform expanded access to coverage and broadened plan benefits. Many people will continue to be affected by these changes in 2011 as they reach their renewal dates.

Additionally, there are several things employers should keep in mind for the upcoming year.

Recap of Notable Reforms in 2010:

• Dependent Coverage to Age 26—Extension of coverage for dependents up to age 26 on their parent's plans
• Employer Fact Sheet
• Dependent Coverage to Age 26 FAQs

• Preventive Care with No Cost Sharing—Expanded coverage for preventive services
• View a detailed summary of services

• No Lifetime Limits—No lifetime limits on essential benefits

• Restricted Annual Limits—Restriction of annual limits on the dollar value of essential health benefits

• Member Appeals—Additional member appeals process requirements

Important Reminders for 2011:

• Small Employer Tax Credits—Tax credits available to small employers who contribute at least 50 percent to their employees' total health insurance premium cost
• View updated information on this topic
• Small Employer Tax Credits FAQs

• Changes to Personal Spending Accounts—Changes to account reimbursements and withdrawals, including distributions for over-the-counter medications and products
• View updated information on these changes

• Early Retiree Reinsurance Program—Program to assist employers with the costs of providing health benefits to early retirees
• Temporary Reinsurance for Early Retirees FAQs

• Small Employer Wellness Grants—Grants to help small employers provide workplace wellness programs to their employees

• W-2 Reporting Requirement—Requirement that employers report the cost of health coverage on their employees' W-2s

For a complete list of national health care reform provisions and timeframes, please visit our Provisions and Timelines pages.