More Americans seek dental treatment at the ER; costs can be 10 times more than checkups

by Eriksen Insurance | Feb 28, 2012 | Heath Care Costs

Washington Post reports: “New research shows that more Americans are turning to the emergency room for routine dental problems. A study released Tuesday by the Pew Center on the States found that going to the ER often costs 10 times more than preventive care and...

The Affordable Care Act: Immediate Benefits for Illinois

by Eriksen Insurance | Feb 28, 2012 | Insurance Reform, Medicare

Health Reform .GOV reports: “Small business tax credits.  194,000 small businesses in Illinois could be helped by a new small business tax credit that makes it easier for businesses to provide coverage to their workers and makes premiums more affordable.1  Small...

High readmission rates put Medicare revenue at risk

by Eriksen Insurance | Feb 27, 2012 | Medicare

Crains Chicago Business reports: “More than two dozen Illinois hospitals face Medicare cuts totaling as much as $19 million next year under the new federal health care law because too many of their patients are being readmitted for heart attacks and other...

ACA Provides Coverage For Nearly 50k Americans With Pre-Existing Conditions

by Eriksen Insurance | Feb 24, 2012 | Insurance Reform

Insurance News Net reports: “Health reform law provides coverage for nearly 50,000 Americans with pre-existing conditions Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan saves lives Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius today announced that the new health...

Health Care Reform: The Unintended Impact on Children

by Eriksen Insurance | Feb 24, 2012 | Insurance Reform

Forbes reports: “When health care reform was passed in 2010, many applauded the provision that children could no longer be denied health insurance coverage due to pre-existing conditions, but there’s decidedly less clapping now. “As an unintended consequence of...