News
Under health care reform, starting in September 2012, health insurers and health plans must provide a Summary of Benefits and Coverage that meets specific guidelines to people who apply and enroll in health plans.
Lipitor Patent Expires - 1/25/2012
The popular statin (cholesterol lowering) drug Lipitor lost its patent protection on November 30, 2011, allowing less expensive generics to enter the market. Since Lipitor is one of the most frequently filled non-specialty drugs (by cost), estimates show the generic equivalent will lead to significant cost savings over the next year.
HHS Notifies of Intent to Modify Women's Preventive Health for Certain Non-Profit Employers - 1/23/2012
On January 20, 2012, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) issued a news release stating their intent to modify the August 2011 interim final regulations for preventive care under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA). This modification will take into consideration non-profit employers who, based on religious beliefs, do not currently provide contraceptive coverage in their insurance plans, but who will not qualify for the full exemption.
W-2 Reporting Requirement - 12/29/2011
Employers that filed 250 or more W-2 forms in 2011 will be responsible for reporting to employees the total cost of their group health benefit plan coverage on their 2012 W-2 forms issued in January 2013. This reporting requirement is informational only and does not mean that coverage will be subject to income tax.
Benefit Partners LLC Announces Merger Plans - 11/1/2011
Bruce Fraser and Steve Tagmyer announce intent to merge practices.
Benefit Partners LLC Adds New Team Member - 11/1/2011
Sarah Landon has joined the Benefit Partners team as of November 1, 2011.
Oregon SB 89 Changes State Continuation Laws - 11/1/2011
On June 23rd, 2011, Senate Bill 89-B passed and was signed into law. It makes several changes to Oregon’s Insurance Code (in conjunction with the Affordable Care Act / Health Care Reform).
CLASS Act Dismissed - 11/1/2011
The US Department of Health and Human Services announced the long-term care program under the health reform law will be dismissed
Appeals filed last week by the Justice Department and others make it likely the justices will review the case soon.
