Published: 2010-01-24 21:25:28
Author: ARTHUR D. POSTAL | Life & Health Insurance News | January 18, 2010
A number of insurance carrier and employer trade groups are asking that the effective dates for numerous changes in health place benefits and policies be extended in any healthcare reform legislation.
As work continues at a rapid pace among negotiators on merging different versions of healthcare reform legislation, the groups said that a longer transition period is needed because both the House and Senate bills include a number of provisions that will require employers and health plans to take significant action to achieve compliance.
These will include making policy and contract revisions, information technology system upgrades, modifications to employee benefit and marketing materials, and development of employee and customer communications.
In a letter to Congressional leaders, the groups also emphasize that many provisions of the proposal would require new regulations, state law changes and approval from state insurance departments.
The letter was signed by officials of the American Benefits Council; America's Health Insurance Plans; Blue Cross Blue Shield Association; the ERISA Industry Committee; the Healthcare Leadership Council; the National Association of Health Underwriters; the National Association of Manufacturers; the National Business Group on Health; the National Retail Federation; National Small Business Association; and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.