http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/This is the Association Insurers AgencyCopyright (c) 2012 Mon, 06 Feb 2012 09:53:18 ESTMon, 06 Feb 2012 09:53:18 EST5While the economy is slowly starting to improve, and more people are finding jobs and receiving growth in their wages, the cost of health insurance for many Americans is growing at an even faster rate.  A recent study from the nonprofit group the Kaiser Family Foundation tracked the costs of employer-sponsored health insurance over the years, and showed that the average annual premium for family coverage through an employer reached $15,073 for 2011, which was a 9% increase over the previous year. This makes experts question whether this is a one time increase or if the rates will be steadily rising over the next few years....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/healthcare-insurance-cost-increasing.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/healthcare-insurance-cost-increasing.htmlFri, 21 Oct 2011 12:00:00 ESTWhen dealing with switching jobs and health care insurance, many people hear the word, or more accurately the acronym, “HIPAA” tossed around but do not truly understand what it means to them, their families, and their right to health care.  HIPAA stands for the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act.  Enacted by the US Congress and signed by President Bill Clinton in 1996, this act protects health insurance coverage for workers and their families when they change or lose their jobs and required the establishment of national standards for electronic health care transactions and national identifiers for providers, health insurance plans, and employers....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/explaining-hipaa.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/explaining-hipaa.htmlFri, 14 Oct 2011 12:00:00 ESTMajor medical insurance is insurance that covers the most serious medical expenses, up to a maximum limit, usually after a deductible and coinsurance costs have been met.  These major medical insurance policies are useful in that they contain statements that protect both you and your health insurance company from having to pay too much money for services.  They have more complete coverage with fewer gaps, and cover a much broader range of medical expenses that are incurred both in and out of the hospital than some other types of policies. There are two basic types of major medical insurance that cover a variety of different healthcare items....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/major-medical-insurance-what-exactly-does-it-cover.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/major-medical-insurance-what-exactly-does-it-cover.htmlSat, 08 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EST Between jobs and need to visit the doctor? Often, you would not want to pay for this visit out of pocket – it can be costly and medical procedures could very well put you into debt for years to come. This is why short term medical insurance can be crucial. Short term medical insurance is affordable, temporary health insurance, designed to help you during in-between times when unexpected illnesses and accidents happen....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/what-is-short-term-medical-insurance.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/what-is-short-term-medical-insurance.htmlFri, 30 Sep 2011 12:00:00 ESTIn July, Chicago governor Pat Quinn signed a measure into law that aims to protect the rights of cancer patients.This law would save them from paying more money if they take oral chemotherapy drugs instead of receiving the traditional intravenous method.Oral chemotherapy treatment is less invasive and sometimes more effective, but often it is forgone by cancer patients because of the cost.Often, insurance companies only cover the injectable form of chemotherapy drugs, forcing patients who want to go with liquid, table, or capsule chemotherapy to pay for it out of pocket....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/chemotherapy-insurance.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/chemotherapy-insurance.htmlFri, 19 Aug 2011 12:00:00 ESTIn May 2011, Zuffa LLC, the parent company of the UFC and Strikeforce, announced that in June 2011 all of its contracted fighters would be eligible for accidental insurance, a revolutionary policy in this field.UFC president Dana White was quotes as saying that the company is proud to offer its athletes this type of insurance, and that “as this sport continues to grow, we have been working hard to secure additional insurance coverage so that our athletes can perform at the highest levels”....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/could-accident-insurance-be-the-end-of-ufc-fighting.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/could-accident-insurance-be-the-end-of-ufc-fighting.htmlWed, 17 Aug 2011 12:00:00 ESTSince Barack Obama took office, health care reform has become a top priority, and a constant source of news as well as debate between the parties.The creation of the Affordable Care Act became a hot topic, and as soon as it passed the Republicans became adamant about repealing it.But could health care soon hit the back burner?With the US’s current continuing struggles with high unemployment, sluggish GDP growth and general malaise among both individuals and corporations, the economy has become the Republicans number one issue for the next election, trumping health care....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/health-care-leaving-the-lime-light.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/health-care-leaving-the-lime-light.htmlFri, 12 Aug 2011 12:00:00 ESTThe Prescription Access Assistance Program, or PAAP, is coming to New Baltimore, Michigan to help you pay for medications where your own Baltimore health insurance leaves off.In a recent New Baltimore Town Board meeting, a PAAP representative spoke about the program, which will be coming to not only New Baltimore but also throughout the Greene, Columbia, and NorthernDutchessCounties. As part of the Healthcare Consortium, the PAAP program helps eligible residents get their prescription medications at low or no cost, with one-on-one guidance throughout the program....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/baltimore-health-insurance-receives-boost-from-paap.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/baltimore-health-insurance-receives-boost-from-paap.htmlThu, 04 Aug 2011 12:00:00 ESTAs time progresses, more and more small businesses are showing concern about how the health reform laws will affect their companies.They question whether the reform will bring in higher taxes and more paperwork without reducing costs or making people healthier.A study was recently done by the National Federation of Independent Business in the National Journal, which took a nationwide sample of 750 small businesses with fewer than 50 employees. While only 18% of companies said that they were very familiar with the law and 40% claimed to be “somewhat familiar”, many still had strong views on the proposition.The poll estimated that of the 5....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/small-business-being-affected-new-healthcare-laws.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/small-business-being-affected-new-healthcare-laws.htmlTue, 02 Aug 2011 12:00:00 ESTLast week, consulting giant McKinsey and Company released a study regarding President Barack Obama’s Affordable Care Act that claimed 30 percent of businesses currently offering health care to their employees would stop doing so once the act was put into full effect. Obviously, this caused uproar. Those on the conservative side against the reform eagerly latched on to this study as those health economists and supporters of the bill voiced skepticism....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/company-backpedals-on-health-care-reform-study.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/company-backpedals-on-health-care-reform-study.htmlMon, 18 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST A proposed health care plan in the state of New Jersey is currently up to some serious debate. The proposed law is a part of a broad pension and benefits reform effort, and would direct the state’s residents to New Jersey-based care only, with the exception of those procedures and care that have to occur out of state. While a spokesman from the Senate Democrats, Derek Roseman, claimed that no workers would be forced into a New Jersey-only plan, it was changed to be stricter than the original version of the bill, which said all workers would stay in state except for cases of emergency or medical necessity....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/proposed-stay-in-state-health-care-plan-criticized.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/proposed-stay-in-state-health-care-plan-criticized.htmlTue, 12 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST A man in North Carolina went to desperate lengths recently in order to receive health care. James Verone, 59, had hit a streak of bad luck. When the economy hit a downturn, he had lost his job of nearly two decades as a driver for Coca Cola. He was able to find a new job driving a truck, but it did not last long, and he eventually moved on to part-time work at a convenience store. Unfortunately, this was detrimental to his health, causing his back to ache, problems with his left foot, carpal tunnel syndrome and arthritis. He then noticed a growth on his chest, and the pain became unbearable....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/how-far-would-you-go-to-get-health-care.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/how-far-would-you-go-to-get-health-care.htmlFri, 08 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST Suggests a state based system to meet residents’ health care insurance needs Upon receiving the Senate seat in his home state of Massachusetts, Senator Scott Brown had some quick suggestions of what to do with health care reform. He suggested that the national government look to his state as a model for health care reform, as the state already covered 98 percent of its residents with health care plans. He claims that the government’s current idea of a on size fits all health care plan - in which everyone in the United States receives the same universal benefits and insurance for health care – will not work....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/massachusetts-senator-scott-brown-brings-interesting-proposal-to-health-care-reform-debate.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/massachusetts-senator-scott-brown-brings-interesting-proposal-to-health-care-reform-debate.htmlSat, 11 Jun 2011 12:00:00 EST But has that changed over the last year? In June 2010, public support for President Obama’s health care law hit its highest point in Associated Press polls. While the public of the United States remained divided, with 45 percent in favor and 42 percent opposed to the law, this was at least a change from March, when only 39 percent favored it and 46 percent opposed the bill....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/past-polls-showed-rising-support-for-obamas-health-care-plan.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/past-polls-showed-rising-support-for-obamas-health-care-plan.htmlFri, 10 Jun 2011 12:00:00 EST Representative Boehner calls health care bill a “monstrosity” and vows change. Changes in the House of Representatives and Senate last fall showed the Democratic party one thing: people are ready for a change, and do not think the Democrats are bringing it fast enough. President Obama admitted that some election nights are more fun than others, and this one opened his party’s eyes to the fact that he, along with everyone else in Washington, needs to do a better job. This movement towards change was rolled out largely because of the nation’s sweeping changes in health care law....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/last-fall-s-midterm-elections-bring-potential-changes-to-health-care-reform.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/last-fall-s-midterm-elections-bring-potential-changes-to-health-care-reform.htmlThu, 09 Jun 2011 12:00:00 EST Healthcare reform is a highly popular topic in the news. It effects everyone – after all, what is more important than knowing you are going to be safe and secure if you are sick or injured? But because there are so many news stories and information about healthcare out there, myths often develop about what is going on with health care and health insurance, ranging from the almost true to the extreme at both ends of the spectrum. Some say that there are no problems with health care, when in reality millions of Americans are under insured, causing them to not receive adequate care and face financial hardship....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/health-reform-myths.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/health-reform-myths.htmlFri, 03 Jun 2011 12:00:00 EST Learning from the example of others is important, and health care is no exception to this rule. There are many varying health care systems available throughout the country. Often though, people have preconceptions of how the health-care systems outside of the United States work. Often people believe that health care is a more socialist system, or that the options for health care are rationed, with limited choices or long lines. This is not true, though. Much like in the United States, many people opt for their own health plans, including self employed health care plans, which are provided by private insurance companies....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/best-health-care-system-in-the-world.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/best-health-care-system-in-the-world.htmlWed, 01 Jun 2011 12:00:00 EST From 2009 to 2010, United States residents under the age of 65 were polled on the numbers of individuals who had privately held insurance and the results were surprising. Although it might seem like a small spike, the 1.6% decrease in private insurers could say something about what the health reform is doing to America. In the same time, the number of US residents, also under 65, who were simply not insured increased from a 15.4% to a startling 16.3%. Again, it may seem small in those terms, but on a realistic scale, that is roughly 2.8 million people who are newly uninsured....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/climbing-ranks-of-uninsured-americans.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/climbing-ranks-of-uninsured-americans.htmlWed, 18 May 2011 01:01:10 EST Health care is often a topic for debate. Everyone wants it, and everyone wants to pay the bare minimum for it – after all, without health insurance, the cost of a simple trip to the doctors for a common cold can be expensive, and a trip to the emergency room can cost thousands of dollars. Often due to the new nature of business and the high rate of turnover of employees, companies will only offer the bare minimum of health insurance, and even have stipulations attached to that. And those who are self-employed have to look out for themselves even further, as there is no company provider of health insurance to help with the costs....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/understanding-your-health-insurance-needs.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/understanding-your-health-insurance-needs.htmlWed, 18 May 2011 01:01:10 EST Over the last few decades, the job market has begun to change. While the baby boomer generation may be used to finding a job and sticking with it, this is not the case for the Millennials. This generation is in a mentality where they are always looking for the next big thing – they will take a job and only stay for a couple years until the next big and bright thing comes along, at which point they move on. Because of this higher rate of turn over, companies have gotten into the habit of not offering health insurance, or only offering the bare minimum of coverage....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/employer-habits-reducing-your-health-care-coverage.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/employer-habits-reducing-your-health-care-coverage.htmlWed, 18 May 2011 01:01:10 EST Health insurance has a number of advantages, especially when a person is able to obtain an affordable policy. Often health insurance plans are covered to an extent by employers, but as time progresses, but the workforce and the benefits offered to it have changed. Now, people will often sign up for their own health insurance policies. One advantage of signing up for personal health insurance is the price options that will be available. Health insurance packages come in a variety of sizes, from basic to extensive, and in turn their prices can also vary greatly....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/benefits-of-personal-health-insurance-policies.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/benefits-of-personal-health-insurance-policies.htmlWed, 18 May 2011 01:01:10 ESTThere is no doubt that with the passage of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) and the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 we all will be faced with a new set of rules in how we buy health insurance. Of course it is still early and the Government will have many more details of this new law in the months to come. We do know some things; however at this point.   President Obama has gone on record saying that the Self Employed population in our country is a growing part of our society and that we need to make benefits that are being purchased by this group affordable....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/how-is-health-care-reform-bill-going-to-affect-the-self-employed.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/how-is-health-care-reform-bill-going-to-affect-the-self-employed.htmlWed, 18 May 2011 01:01:10 ESTOne of the components that was included in the passage of the new Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act was a Long Term Care Plan.   Officially called the Community Living Assistance Services & Supports Act (or, CLASS Act), it appears this program will make Long Term Care available to all Americans eligible for MediCare. All MediCare participants will be automatically enrolled (for a monthly premium charge) and will have the option to opt-out of the program.   Although final regulations have not been offered yet, early concepts show that a participant would need to pay premiums for five years before they would become eligible for benefits....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/do-you-still-need-long-term-care.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/do-you-still-need-long-term-care.htmlWed, 18 May 2011 01:01:10 ESTTax-qualified savings plans, like a 401 k or IRA, have become the most popular retirement vehicle for American families today. All contributions grow tax deferred, and if your company offers a 410 k plan, most companies will even match a portion of your individual contribution. Sounds great! You receive free money from your company, and you have the added benefit of tax deferred growth! Who wouldn't want to participate? Let's take a little closer look at some figures, and what this means to you and your family in retirement. If you were to invest a mere $100 per month over a 30 year period, your total contribution would equal $36,000....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/retirement-facts-you-need-to-know.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/retirement-facts-you-need-to-know.htmlWed, 18 May 2011 01:01:10 ESTWhen the Affordable Care Act was passed by the Congress and signed into law by President Obama in March of 2010, one of the laws created was the Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan (PCIP). This law was designed so that Health Insurance could become available to those who have been denied coverage due to pre-existing conitions.   This new system is scheduled to be implemented by either your individual state or through the US Department of Health & Human Resources. The PCIP program will will be available until 2014 at which time pre-existing conditions and the use of personal health information will no longer be allowed to be used....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/pre-existing-condition-insurance-plan-pcip.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/pre-existing-condition-insurance-plan-pcip.htmlWed, 18 May 2011 01:01:10 ESTAs part of the passage of the Patient Protection & Affordable Care Act, there seems to be concern as to whether the trend towards high deductible health insurance will be defined as "adequate insurance".   Current wording requires that all health insurance plans which will include the government specified benefits have a minimum actuarial value of at least 60%.   High deductible health insurance plans often purchased by the self employed for their healthcare to obtain a lower cost and to be used for a more catastrophic purpose, may no longer qualify....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/hsa-s-still-viable.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/hsa-s-still-viable.htmlWed, 18 May 2011 01:01:10 ESTLike many people out there, the Self-Employed use their homes for business use. It seems natural, then, that they wish to take advantage of the IRS tax deduction afforded to them for this usage. Keep in mind that the IRS is very specific about who qualifies and what qualifies as deductible. Who qualifies:       1)      The part of your home that is being deducted has to be used regularly and exclusively for business purposes. 2)      That part of your home (above) needs to be the principal place of employment in the normal course of conducting business. This should not be confused with occasional usage....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/tax-deduction-for-home-business-use.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/tax-deduction-for-home-business-use.htmlWed, 18 May 2011 01:01:10 ESTFor those that can't wait for the HealthCare Reform Bill (Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act) to go into effect, note that some basic changes will take place effective 9/23/2010. (Actually it will be for plans that have their first renewal on or after 9/23/2010). Self employed health benefits such as Limited Medical Plans as well as insured Dental and Prescription plans will still be available under their current structures....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/health-care-changes-as-of-9232010.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/health-care-changes-as-of-9232010.htmlWed, 18 May 2011 01:01:10 ESTOkay, we all are aware that, as of September 23, 2010, our Children are now able to stay on our medical plans until they are 26... simple... right?   Not exactly.   Unfortunately, within the multitude of paperwork we now know as the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) there is no definition as to what a "child" is.   Some believe that without a clear definition, it may mean that only a biological child is meant to be automatically covered and that stepchildren and adopted children may be added upon the desire of the PolicyHolder......

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/so-what-exactly-is-a-child.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/so-what-exactly-is-a-child.htmlWed, 18 May 2011 01:01:10 ESTIf you're like most people. you're somewhat confused on how the Social Security Administration calculates the benefit we're entitled to "at the end of the rainbow". Unfortunately there is no quick, easy way to calculate things for yourself, therefore making it yet another bureaucratic system of hoops we need to get through.   Basically Social Security takes a look at the highest 35 income years during your working career (it takes a minimum of 10 years to qualify for a benefit). If you have more than 10 year's worth of earnings but not 35, the other years are entered as "0" for the calculation....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/confused-on-social-security-benefits.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/confused-on-social-security-benefits.htmlWed, 18 May 2011 01:01:10 ESTI was waiting for this to start being talked about...   The American Academy of Actuaries (AAA) has recently submitted a letter to the co-Chairman of the National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform indicating that they would support the idea of increasing the eligibility age for retiorement under the Social Security System. By doing this, it would make the program "solvent and sustainable".   Although no suggested age increases were offered, the rationale was that Americans are living longer and therefore are able to work longer than in the past....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/will-we-need-to-work-longer.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/will-we-need-to-work-longer.htmlWed, 18 May 2011 01:01:10 ESTWith the largest turnover of seats in the House of Representatives this past week in over 70 years, the immediate cries are whether the Republicans will overturn the HealthCare legislation.   The new Republican leadership has vowed to rollback the size of government as well as tackle issues within the Health Care Reform legislation. Any changes to this legislation will not; however happen overnight. The Democrats are still in control of the Senate and the President still retains his veto power.   The President said "If Republicans have some ideas..." he would be glad to hear them; however "......

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/is-healthcare-reform-done.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/is-healthcare-reform-done.htmlWed, 18 May 2011 01:01:10 ESTI'm sure like most of you, it becomes an uncomfortable part of the Car Rental process when the Rental Agent starts up with the sales pitch about the coverages available (for an extra charge) while you're enjoying the pleasures of their vehicle.   And like most of us... we tell the Agent... "No thanks... my insurance already covers this.", or "My Credit Card protects me for this."   But does it?   Obviously the best thing to do is to call your Agent, or read the fine print on the actual protection being afforded....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/rental-car-insurance.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/rental-car-insurance.htmlWed, 18 May 2011 01:01:10 ESTI get a lot of people ask me about the "donut hole" being experienced with prescription drugs under the Medicare Prescription arrangement. Keep in mind that there are a number of MediCare Supplement plans and each one handles the initial portion differently. For "ease" of understanding, we are going to assume that someone is purchasing only the Part D Drug Plan (along with parts A & B).   For 2011 you will be required to pay the first $310 as a deductible on the drugs that are used....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/the-donut-hole.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/the-donut-hole.htmlWed, 18 May 2011 01:01:10 EST The big question here is “can and should they?” Isn’t the idea that we have affordable health insurance for individuals and families? If you’ve seen any of those news programs on TV or on the radio these past few months, then you know by now that the Republicans are planning to take to pieces, or, in professional terms, repeal the Health-care Reform Bill that was passed just last spring. There are a few elected Republicans that are arguing that they will repeal the health care bill in its entirety, while others just want to adjust the existing bill....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/will-the-healthcare-reform-be-repealed.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/will-the-healthcare-reform-be-repealed.htmlWed, 18 May 2011 01:01:10 EST There are several hospitals these days stuck in a rut and burdened between two contrasting movements. On one side, they are bombarded with continuous reductions in compensations by Medicare and commercial payors, as well as a duty to execute various health care reform procedures. While on the other side, they are also meant to preserve or even augment the quality of care they provide, and to build up that quality tenfold. So all considered, hospitals continue to search for a way to satisfy all these demands, a few of these involve working in a conjunctive style with the hospital’s medical employees....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/health-care-reform-integration-of-care.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/health-care-reform-integration-of-care.htmlWed, 18 May 2011 01:01:10 ESTThe shift to a High-Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) is on the rise across the US.   According to the National Center for Health Statistics, the percentage of US Residents (in the private marketplace) under the age of 65 that has an HDHP for their coverage has increased from 15.9% to 18.1 in the last year. A High-Deductible Plan is defined as having a deductible of at least $1,200/year...   Those switching over to the HDHP have also proportionately combined with the usage of a personal health account for their deductible responsibilities....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/high-deductible-health-plans-on-the-rise.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/high-deductible-health-plans-on-the-rise.htmlWed, 18 May 2011 01:01:10 EST“Obamacare” has done more than just unbalance the nerves of the Republicans. In fact, some might say it has unbalanced the thoughts of people all over America, who, for the most part, don’t know what is going on or what the new healthcare bill is even doing. While many in Washington DC are opting to appeal the bill, many still are embracing it and living with the changes. But what changes are there? The web is exploding with questions, and many ask “How will Veteran’s health care benefits be affected by ObamaCare?” The fact is that it won’t be....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/health-care-under-obamacare.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/health-care-under-obamacare.htmlWed, 18 May 2011 01:01:10 ESTSo you're considering getting a mortgage to buy a house or refinancing...   When approaching the task of applying for a loan be careful not to fall into the trap of the "rate" game. (Similar to the auto salesman that asks you what you can afford per month...).   You should be applying for the best mortgage rate that you qualify for.   Ever heard of Yield Spread Premium (YSP)? This is a fee that is paid by Mortgage Lenders (to Mortgage Brokers) for loans that are settled on with rates that are higher than necessary. Typically the Broker can receive up to 1% (of the mortgage amount) for every .25% rate higher than you are qualified for....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/beware-of-the-ysp.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/beware-of-the-ysp.htmlWed, 18 May 2011 01:01:10 EST Research was recently conducted to estimate the correlation between lifestyle-related diseases, such as high blood pressure, diabetes and similar condition, and the cost of healthcare in the United State. It’s thought that by reducing the frequency of diabetes and high blood pressure by even 5 percent, we could save our country somewhere around $9 billion a year on medical costs. With this find, increased efforts to prevent these lifestyle choices have been under consideration and we could start seeing movement in the project very soon....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/lifestyle-related-diseases.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/lifestyle-related-diseases.htmlWed, 18 May 2011 01:01:10 EST While Obamacare is providing the opportunity for small businesses to receive a tax break for simply providing health insurance to employees, many businesses in Georgia are opting out. Although the motion was meant to benefit as many as 32 million US citizens who have no health insurance, these small businesses simply can’t afford to make the change. While around 30 percent of Georgia firms can meet the majority of requirements for the tax breaks, not many are biting. It may save them money in the long run, but right now, they can’t handle the costs of employee health insurance....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/tax-break-offered-to-small-business.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/tax-break-offered-to-small-business.htmlWed, 18 May 2011 01:01:10 EST A recent survey tells that new tax credits, paired with the prearranged health-care overhaul, has a few small business owners in the US who currently do not provide health insurance opting toward giving employees the choice now or in the near future. This survey has also deduced that the law has many small businesses, who are currently offering coverage, continuing to offer it, when in the past, they weren’t so sure. There is no question that the government is working to expedite the benefits of the new healthcare plan, and it seems many employers are taking notice of it....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/employers-jumping-on-the-health-insurance-bandwagon.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/employers-jumping-on-the-health-insurance-bandwagon.htmlWed, 18 May 2011 01:01:10 EST There has been a lot of talk of healthcare and tax bills recently and very little seems to be in positive terms. But many people seem to be forgetting a very important and influential aspect of healthcare taxes that can save you bundles. A few years back, a tax law was put into place that offered some very beneficial provisions for Health Savings Accounts, or HSAs. The advantages are many and involve things like greater deductibles, better eligibility, and rollovers, but how will you benefit from them? Well, first things first, you need to know what an HSA is....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/looking-at-the-hsa-positives.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/looking-at-the-hsa-positives.htmlWed, 18 May 2011 01:01:10 EST What initially looked like simplicity in the new healthcare overhaul law is slowly becoming a little more complicated everyday. While the law is scheduled to go into effect in 2014 and include a package of minimum essential benefits, there is question as to just what “essential benefits” entails. As of now, the benefits fall into 10 overall categories like hospitalization, rehabilitation services, and prescription drugs, but what is going on in the fine print? The Secretary of Health and Human Services was given the task of deciding and detailing the benefits, but there are questions as to what should be included....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/carefree-becomes-complicated-in-healthcare.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/carefree-becomes-complicated-in-healthcare.htmlWed, 18 May 2011 01:01:10 EST Voting commenced last month for the repealing of the Health Care Law Act as the House sat down and gave their thoughts on the advantages and disadvantages of the bill. Few had anything to say in favor of the act and in turn, the House members voted 245-189 to pass the bill that would repeal it. The voting was split almost exactly down the middle between Republicans and Democrats, nearly everyone staying true to their party, leave a few skeptical Democrats. Many frame this vote as “the clash between the interests of health insurers and the interests of ordinary Americans....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/the-downfall-of-the-healthcare-law-act.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/the-downfall-of-the-healthcare-law-act.htmlWed, 18 May 2011 01:01:10 EST The best way to make sure you are saving the right amount of your health insurance is by simply shopping around. You may be happy with the coverage you have, but that doesn’t mean you aren’t paying too much. Instead of renewing right away with your current provider, take a look at some of their competitors and see what you like better. Maybe they will offer something you hadn’t thought about and you are even willing to pay a little more to get that coverage that was not covered in your previous provider. Ask around for some quotes....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/refraining-from-overpaying-on-insurance.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/refraining-from-overpaying-on-insurance.htmlWed, 18 May 2011 01:01:10 EST The health insurance market is changing. From Obamacare to fresh healthcare acts, individuals and businesses alike are shifting to the flow of new insurance. But what of those with self employed health insurance? What is popping up in that neck of the woods? One of the biggest changes is the way self-employed health insurance is treated in filing taxes. A new law allows for a 100% deduction of health insurance for the self-employed, which includes the sole proprietors, any and all partners, and more than 2% shareholders of S corporations....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/changes-in-self-employed-health-insurance.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/changes-in-self-employed-health-insurance.htmlWed, 18 May 2011 01:01:10 EST Could it be that personal health insurance comiepans are the way to go? At a recent orientation session, a conservative Maryland physician shocked his associate freshmen by demanding an answer as to why his government-subsidized health care plan was going to take a full month to start up. Initially elected to Congress on the platform for anti-Obamacare, Republican Andy Harris stood in amazement after being told that federal law states that his and all government-subsidized health care policy would only go into effect on Feb. 1, 28 days after he was sworn in....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/republican-freshman-where-s-my-healthcare.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/republican-freshman-where-s-my-healthcare.htmlWed, 18 May 2011 01:01:10 EST Heath insurance has been a big issue in the news recently, as healthcare reforms seek to remake our health care system and help everyone receive the care they deserve when they are sick or injured. Unfortunately our system is flawed, and investing in health insurance is often necessary to ensure you will receive the care you need....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/insurance-for-the-self-employed.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/insurance-for-the-self-employed.htmlWed, 18 May 2011 01:01:10 ESTAs time progresses, the job market has started to change. Instead of finding a permanent job to spend decades at, people are encouraged to find a job for right now, and bounce to new ones when better opportunities arise. So, as jobs become less permanent, the more and more health insurance is being forgotten about as a work benefit. Often insurance is provided at a minimum by a company or not at all. And many young people don’t think anything of it: they go to the gym and take reasonably good care of themselves. Plus, youth are the most naturally resilient to disease and are least likely to have serious medical conditions....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/benefits-of-individual-health-care-plan.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/benefits-of-individual-health-care-plan.htmlWed, 18 May 2011 12:00:00 ESTWith the rising costs of health care, often the mere thought of a doctor’s visit or a hospital stay will cause worry. The cost of medical treatment is rising rapidly, between deductibles, co-pays, and other expenses. These other expenses can be in hospital or even non-medical, including gas for family members to come to and from the hospital, to special meals or diet plans, to of course the ongoing bills and expenses that are associated with running a household – how is a family supposed to pay their cable bill and their hospital bills at the same time? This is where personal health insurance companies can help....

]]> http://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/hospital-bills-vs-health-insurance-plan.htmlhttp://trustmedhealth.smtusa.com/blog/posts/hospital-bills-vs-health-insurance-plan.htmlWed, 18 May 2011 12:00:00 EST