As personal injury attorneys in Colorado Springs, Colorado, it is vital that we always keep an eye on changes in the health insurance industry. We want to be as well informed as possible in order to provide you with the most accurate and relevant advice when you need it most.
Recently, the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) announced that the Division of Insurance approved the final 2014 health insurance rates.
According to a press release from DORA, the Division of Insurance reviewed and approved 541 new health insurance plans from eighteen carriers offering coverage to consumers and small businesses. These plans will take affect on January 1 next year.
By law, these health plans must provide a set of essential benefits to consumers while offering individuals and small businesses a variety of choices for health insurance.
The DOI began reviewing plans in May to ensure that they meet state and federal requirements for benefits, coverage, and premiums, as outlined in the Patient Protection & Affordable Care Act. The board also reviewed the proposed rates, the justification of those rates, marketing materials, and each carrier’s network of doctors and other providers.
After looking over the plans, it seems that there are a wide range of monthly premiums approved for 2014. A “bronze plan” could cost an individual about $150-$250 per month, depending on where in Colorado you live. If you’re looking for a lower copay or deductible, possibly try a “gold” or “platinum” plan, which would have higher premiums.
The next step for the DOI is to send approved plans and rates to Connect for Health Colorado and the United States Department of Health and Human Services.
If you have questions about these updates to health insurance and how they may pertain to personal injury law, contact an experienced Colorado personal injury attorney.
