Monday, November 1, 2010
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Thursday, September 23, 2010
September 23, 2010 - A major milestone in health reform implementation
September 23, 2010 - A major milestone in health reform implementation
Today marks one of the major milestones in health reform implementation. September 23 is the day that most of the 2010 health reform mandates become effective for employer groups. Mandates that go into effect today include:
Removal of pre-existing condition exclusion for enrollees under age 19
Coverage for dependents up to age 26 (Blue Shield implemented on June 1, 2010)
Preventive care with no member cost-sharing
Regulation on lifetime dollar limits
Regulation on annual coverage limits
Nondiscrimination rules for group coverage
Patient protections
Updated rescission rules
Updated member appeals process
Today marks one of the major milestones in health reform implementation. September 23 is the day that most of the 2010 health reform mandates become effective for employer groups. Mandates that go into effect today include:
Removal of pre-existing condition exclusion for enrollees under age 19
Coverage for dependents up to age 26 (Blue Shield implemented on June 1, 2010)
Preventive care with no member cost-sharing
Regulation on lifetime dollar limits
Regulation on annual coverage limits
Nondiscrimination rules for group coverage
Patient protections
Updated rescission rules
Updated member appeals process
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
LIAM Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Katherine Wichmann Zacharias
(619) 208-7717
THREE WAYS TO HELP YOU SAVE MONEY ON YOUR LIFE INSURANCE
Local Insurance Expert Offers Cost-Cutting Tips for Consumers
Encinitas, CA 9/1/10 – There may be a silver lining to the economic crisis that Americans have lived through over the past two years: We have become accustomed to spending less and saving more. Even as the economy rebounds, many people continue to look for ways to keep their household budgets in check. Luckily, spending less doesn’t have to mean doing with less, especially when it comes to life insurance coverage. There are ways you can maintain your coverage, but pay less for it.
“Life insurance is a financial safety net for your loved ones, so it’s critical to maintain that coverage especially with the uncertainty that remains in the economy,” says Katherine Wichmann Zacharias, Independent Insurance Broker & Financial Rep. with KSWZ Insurance Services & Five Rings Financial. “But keeping that coverage doesn’t have to be a financial burden. There are ways to save money on your existing coverage, and I’ve got some tips to help you do just that.”
September is Life Insurance Awareness Month, the perfect time to review your life insurance needs with an insurance professional. If you already have coverage, you may be able to cut costs based on the following, says Wichmann Zacharias:
You’re healthier. If you have quit smoking, lost a substantial amount of weight or made significant improvements to your health, let your insurance company know. You may be able to qualify for a lower rate on your coverage.
Rates are near historic lows. Life insurance rates remain near historic lows. In fact, the cost of basic term life insurance has fallen by nearly 50 percent over the past decade. So if your family’s budget is tight and your health status hasn’t changed much since the time you last purchased coverage, you may want to apply for a new policy. If you do, make sure not to drop your current coverage until the new policy is in force.
Circumstances have changed. It is smart to review your policy every year to make sure it’s adequate and up to date. If the kids are out of the house, your mortgage is paid down, you’ve gotten divorced or family members no longer need your financial support, your need for life insurance coverage may have decreased. A smaller face amount policy will likely save you money.
“If people depend on you financially, life insurance is an absolute must,” says Wichmann Zacharias. “But no one should pay more than they have to.”
About Life Insurance Awareness Month
Held each September, Life Insurance Awareness Month is an industry-wide effort that is coordinated by the nonprofit LIFE Foundation. The campaign was created in response to growing concern about the large number of Americans who lack adequate life insurance protection. Roughly 70 million adult Americans have no life insurance, and most of those who do have far less coverage than most financial experts recommend. For more information on life insurance, visit LIFE’s website at www.lifehappens.org.
About Katherine Wichmann Zacharias & KSWZ Insurance Services & Five Rings Financial
www.kswz.biz
www.fiveringsfinancial.com
###
(619) 208-7717
THREE WAYS TO HELP YOU SAVE MONEY ON YOUR LIFE INSURANCE
Local Insurance Expert Offers Cost-Cutting Tips for Consumers
Encinitas, CA 9/1/10 – There may be a silver lining to the economic crisis that Americans have lived through over the past two years: We have become accustomed to spending less and saving more. Even as the economy rebounds, many people continue to look for ways to keep their household budgets in check. Luckily, spending less doesn’t have to mean doing with less, especially when it comes to life insurance coverage. There are ways you can maintain your coverage, but pay less for it.
“Life insurance is a financial safety net for your loved ones, so it’s critical to maintain that coverage especially with the uncertainty that remains in the economy,” says Katherine Wichmann Zacharias, Independent Insurance Broker & Financial Rep. with KSWZ Insurance Services & Five Rings Financial. “But keeping that coverage doesn’t have to be a financial burden. There are ways to save money on your existing coverage, and I’ve got some tips to help you do just that.”
September is Life Insurance Awareness Month, the perfect time to review your life insurance needs with an insurance professional. If you already have coverage, you may be able to cut costs based on the following, says Wichmann Zacharias:
You’re healthier. If you have quit smoking, lost a substantial amount of weight or made significant improvements to your health, let your insurance company know. You may be able to qualify for a lower rate on your coverage.
Rates are near historic lows. Life insurance rates remain near historic lows. In fact, the cost of basic term life insurance has fallen by nearly 50 percent over the past decade. So if your family’s budget is tight and your health status hasn’t changed much since the time you last purchased coverage, you may want to apply for a new policy. If you do, make sure not to drop your current coverage until the new policy is in force.
Circumstances have changed. It is smart to review your policy every year to make sure it’s adequate and up to date. If the kids are out of the house, your mortgage is paid down, you’ve gotten divorced or family members no longer need your financial support, your need for life insurance coverage may have decreased. A smaller face amount policy will likely save you money.
“If people depend on you financially, life insurance is an absolute must,” says Wichmann Zacharias. “But no one should pay more than they have to.”
About Life Insurance Awareness Month
Held each September, Life Insurance Awareness Month is an industry-wide effort that is coordinated by the nonprofit LIFE Foundation. The campaign was created in response to growing concern about the large number of Americans who lack adequate life insurance protection. Roughly 70 million adult Americans have no life insurance, and most of those who do have far less coverage than most financial experts recommend. For more information on life insurance, visit LIFE’s website at www.lifehappens.org.
About Katherine Wichmann Zacharias & KSWZ Insurance Services & Five Rings Financial
www.kswz.biz
www.fiveringsfinancial.com
###
Thursday, September 16, 2010
My Free monthly networking mixers
Mark Your Calendars!
Wine, Women & Wealth SEPTEMBER 23 Rancho Bernardo
Money 101 San Marcos SEPTEMBER 28
Money 101 Mission Valley SEPTEMBER 29
Wine, Women & Wealth SEPTEMBER 23 Rancho Bernardo
Money 101 San Marcos SEPTEMBER 28
Money 101 Mission Valley SEPTEMBER 29
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Monday, August 30, 2010
My Free monthly networking mixers
Wine, Women & Wealth September 15 Carlsbad 7 pm
Wine, Women & Wealth TENTATIVE DATE SEPTEMBER 23 Rancho Bernardo 7 pm
Money 101 San Marcos TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 28 6:30 p.m.
Money 101 Mission Valley TENTATIVE DATE SEPTEMBER 29 6:30 p.m.
Wine, Women & Wealth TENTATIVE DATE SEPTEMBER 23 Rancho Bernardo 7 pm
Money 101 San Marcos TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 28 6:30 p.m.
Money 101 Mission Valley TENTATIVE DATE SEPTEMBER 29 6:30 p.m.
Monday, August 23, 2010
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Carlsbad Wine, Women & Wealth
Happy August everyone, it seems like the summer is flying by!
Please join us in Carlsbad as we continue, MAKE MONEY, Not Excuses. Aug 11 @ Relm Winery at 7 pm
Excuse #7
"I'd LOVE to Start Saving,
but I Don't Know How"
Although the title is ostensibly about saving, it's really about setting big goals and figuring out how to get there. Saving itself isn't really much of a goal for most people - what's the point when you could do something with your money?
If you have come to our event before, please join us again - we're building a community of women who feel great about money!
...and don't forget your business cards - we always make time to network with the other fabulous women in the room!
We'll look forward to seeing you there, & feel free to bring a friend! As always there is no charge for this event, you are our guest!
Please register with me no later than August 10 @ TheWic@sbcglobal.net
Please join us in Carlsbad as we continue, MAKE MONEY, Not Excuses. Aug 11 @ Relm Winery at 7 pm
Excuse #7
"I'd LOVE to Start Saving,
but I Don't Know How"
Although the title is ostensibly about saving, it's really about setting big goals and figuring out how to get there. Saving itself isn't really much of a goal for most people - what's the point when you could do something with your money?
If you have come to our event before, please join us again - we're building a community of women who feel great about money!
...and don't forget your business cards - we always make time to network with the other fabulous women in the room!
We'll look forward to seeing you there, & feel free to bring a friend! As always there is no charge for this event, you are our guest!
Please register with me no later than August 10 @ TheWic@sbcglobal.net
Thursday, July 29, 2010
My Free monthly networking mixers
Wine, Women & Wealth July 29 - Rancho Bernardo
Wine, Women & Wealth August 11 - Carlsbad
Money 101 - August 23 Mission Valley
Money 101 - August 24 San Marcos
RSVP to me @ thewic@sbcglobal.net or on FB
Wine, Women & Wealth August 11 - Carlsbad
Money 101 - August 23 Mission Valley
Money 101 - August 24 San Marcos
RSVP to me @ thewic@sbcglobal.net or on FB
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
What is Driving Health Care Costs?
Cutting Edge Technology
Prescription Drugs; prices are 35%-55% higher in the US than in any other country.
General and Medical Inflation
Aging of the population contributes minimally to the high growth of health care spending.
Treatment of Chronic Disease accounts for over 75% of national health expenditures.
Administrative Costs accounts for at least 7% of health care expenditures.
Hospital Care and Physician Services account for 52% of the nation’s health expenditures.
Click the link below for more details:
http://www.kaiseredu.org/topics_im.asp?imID=1&parentID=61&id=358
Prescription Drugs; prices are 35%-55% higher in the US than in any other country.
General and Medical Inflation
Aging of the population contributes minimally to the high growth of health care spending.
Treatment of Chronic Disease accounts for over 75% of national health expenditures.
Administrative Costs accounts for at least 7% of health care expenditures.
Hospital Care and Physician Services account for 52% of the nation’s health expenditures.
Click the link below for more details:
http://www.kaiseredu.org/topics_im.asp?imID=1&parentID=61&id=358
Where Do Our Health Care Dollars Go?
Where Do Our Health Care Dollars Go?
Hospital Care 31%
Physician/Clinical Services 21%
Prescription Drugs 10%
Program Administration 7%
Investment 7%
Nursing Home Care 6%
Other Professional Services 6%
Dental 4%
Home Health 3%
Other Retail Products 3%
Govt. Public Health Activities 3%
Source: http://www.cms.gov/NationalHealthExpendData/
Hospital Care 31%
Physician/Clinical Services 21%
Prescription Drugs 10%
Program Administration 7%
Investment 7%
Nursing Home Care 6%
Other Professional Services 6%
Dental 4%
Home Health 3%
Other Retail Products 3%
Govt. Public Health Activities 3%
Source: http://www.cms.gov/NationalHealthExpendData/
Health Care Reform
In this alert we will cover the applicable change requirements to the group health plans and health insurance issuers, as well as the amendments to the IRC giving certain favorable tax treatment to adult children who have not attained age 27 as of the end of the taxable year and are effective March 30, 2010.
Purpose of Reform
A common theme you will see in all of the legislative alerts in the coming months is that the purpose for healthcare reform and the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act is to insure millions of the now currently uninsured Americans. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation about 30% of all young adults are uninsured. This particular provision, according to Kathleen Sebelius, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, estimates about 1.2 million young adults will now gain coverage.
Many young adults lose their access to coverage when they either marry, graduate college, or no longer are an eligible dependent on their parents’ tax return. This provision hopes to fill those coverage gaps.
Kathleen Sebelius is working closely with many of the nation’s largest insurers to encourage early adoption of the rules rather than waiting until the required deadline. As a result many of the insurers have agreed to voluntary adoption of the rules to prevent the targeted group from falling off their health plans in the spring only to be reenrolled in the fall.
Summary of Health Plan Issuers
Under the Act, all plans and insurance issuers that offer dependent coverage must offer coverage to an enrollee’s adult children whether married or unmarried until the child reaches age 26, even if the adult child no longer lives with the parents, is not a dependent on the parent’s tax return, or is no longer a student.
Plans that do not provide dependent coverage are not required to do so under the Act
Extended eligibility does not apply to the adult child’s spouse or children
Expansion of eligibility is effective for plan or policy years beginning on or after September 23, 2010
Calendar year plans will have to comply as of January 1, 2011
For Grandfathered plans, if the adult child is eligible for another employer-based health plan other than the parents coverage, plans would generally not have to provide extended dependent coverage to that child until 2014
Purpose of Reform
A common theme you will see in all of the legislative alerts in the coming months is that the purpose for healthcare reform and the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act is to insure millions of the now currently uninsured Americans. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation about 30% of all young adults are uninsured. This particular provision, according to Kathleen Sebelius, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, estimates about 1.2 million young adults will now gain coverage.
Many young adults lose their access to coverage when they either marry, graduate college, or no longer are an eligible dependent on their parents’ tax return. This provision hopes to fill those coverage gaps.
Kathleen Sebelius is working closely with many of the nation’s largest insurers to encourage early adoption of the rules rather than waiting until the required deadline. As a result many of the insurers have agreed to voluntary adoption of the rules to prevent the targeted group from falling off their health plans in the spring only to be reenrolled in the fall.
Summary of Health Plan Issuers
Under the Act, all plans and insurance issuers that offer dependent coverage must offer coverage to an enrollee’s adult children whether married or unmarried until the child reaches age 26, even if the adult child no longer lives with the parents, is not a dependent on the parent’s tax return, or is no longer a student.
Plans that do not provide dependent coverage are not required to do so under the Act
Extended eligibility does not apply to the adult child’s spouse or children
Expansion of eligibility is effective for plan or policy years beginning on or after September 23, 2010
Calendar year plans will have to comply as of January 1, 2011
For Grandfathered plans, if the adult child is eligible for another employer-based health plan other than the parents coverage, plans would generally not have to provide extended dependent coverage to that child until 2014
Monday, July 12, 2010
July Wine, Women & Wealth Rancho Bernardo
RANCHO BERNARDO WINE WOMEN & WEALTH
THURSDAY – July 29, 2010, 7:00pm – 9:00pm
BERNARDO WINERY
13330 Paseo Del Verano Norte
San Diego, CA 92128 US
Free wine tasting and networking! RSVP to me!
THURSDAY – July 29, 2010, 7:00pm – 9:00pm
BERNARDO WINERY
13330 Paseo Del Verano Norte
San Diego, CA 92128 US
Free wine tasting and networking! RSVP to me!
Money 101 free dinners this mo.
MONEY 101 – SAN MARCOS
TUESDAY, July 20, 2010 – 6:30pm – 8:30pm
Old Spaghetti Factory
111 N Twin Oaks Valley Rd
San Marcos, CA 92069
AND
MONEY 101 – MISSION VALLEY TBD
WEDNESDAY, July 21, 2010 – 6:30pm – 8:30pm Hope you can make it, please RSVP to me or on FB.
TUESDAY, July 20, 2010 – 6:30pm – 8:30pm
Old Spaghetti Factory
111 N Twin Oaks Valley Rd
San Marcos, CA 92069
AND
MONEY 101 – MISSION VALLEY TBD
WEDNESDAY, July 21, 2010 – 6:30pm – 8:30pm Hope you can make it, please RSVP to me or on FB.
July Wine, Women & Wealth
My next free Wine, Women and Wealth event will by on July 14th at RELM winery in Carlsbad, I hope you all can come and enjoy a lil wine and networking. 7-9 pm. You can get all the info and RSVP on my FB page
Coming Soon: Longevity Tests
Forget the palm readers and tarot cards. If you want to know whether or not you will live to a ripe old age, just wait for a genetic analysis software that a group of Boston University scientists plans to make available through the Internet. Based on a study of people over the age of 100, the BU research team has identified about 150 unique genetic markers associated with extreme longevity.
The BU researchers claim they can identify people predisposed to exceptional longevity with 77% accuracy in controlled tests.
The BU researchers claim they can identify people predisposed to exceptional longevity with 77% accuracy in controlled tests.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Boomer Retirement Fears
We've all played the "would you rather" parlor game of picking between hideous choices. Would you rather be the only human to survive a nuclear holocaust or... trapped on a desert island with the cast of "Jersey Shore"? In much the same spirit, Allianz Life Insurance asked 3,200 adults (ages 45 to 75) which they feared the most: dying... or running out of retirement money before they died..
It turns out that three out of five people (61%) say they fear outliving their retirement savings more than death itself.
It turns out that three out of five people (61%) say they fear outliving their retirement savings more than death itself.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Wine, Women & Wealth June 24th
Wine, Women, & Wealth
Thursday, June 24, 2010
7:00pm - 9:00pm
Bernardo Winery
San Diego, CA
Welcome, June! That means summer is just around the corner and it's time again for Wine, Women & Wealth!
Come hear my partner Denise Arand speak...
Survey after survey shows that women don't feel there are enough hours in the day, and this overload stresses us out! Find out why you ended up in this spot, learn about the biggest 'time thief' of all - and gain some tools to get you back on track!
If you have come to our event before, please join us again - we're building a community of women who feel great about money!
...and don't forget your business cards - we always
make time to network with the other fabulous women in the room!
Come for a free wine tasting!
We'll look forward to seeing you there, & feel free to bring a friend! As always there is no charge for this event, you are our guest!
Thursday, June 24, 2010
7:00pm - 9:00pm
Bernardo Winery
San Diego, CA
Welcome, June! That means summer is just around the corner and it's time again for Wine, Women & Wealth!
Come hear my partner Denise Arand speak...
Survey after survey shows that women don't feel there are enough hours in the day, and this overload stresses us out! Find out why you ended up in this spot, learn about the biggest 'time thief' of all - and gain some tools to get you back on track!
If you have come to our event before, please join us again - we're building a community of women who feel great about money!
...and don't forget your business cards - we always
make time to network with the other fabulous women in the room!
Come for a free wine tasting!
We'll look forward to seeing you there, & feel free to bring a friend! As always there is no charge for this event, you are our guest!
Monday, June 14, 2010
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Friday, May 14, 2010
May Is Disability Insurance Awareness Month
How would you like to receive an extra paycheck? I’m affiliated with the LIFE Foundation, a nonprofit insurance education group that is sponsoring the “Where Did My Paycheck Go?” Challenge during the month of May. Entering this contest is simple: You will be asked to take a minute to think about your paycheck and where all your hard-earned money goes.
Why all the attention on your paycheck? Well, many people don’t realize that just as they protect their cars and their homes with insurance, they need to be insuring another valuable asset—their paycheck. That’s where disability insurance comes in: Think of it as insurance for your paycheck. It ensures that if you are unable to work because of illness or injury, you will continue to receive an income, enabling you to make ends meet until you’re able to return to work.
To enter the “Where Did My Paycheck Go?” Challenge, go to www.protectyourpaycheck.org. One lucky entrant will be chosen at random to win a “bonus paycheck” in the form of a $1,000 American Express gift certificate—Here’s hoping that it’s you!
May is Disability Insurance Awareness Month, the ideal time to make sure that your paycheck is properly protected with disability insurance.
Why all the attention on your paycheck? Well, many people don’t realize that just as they protect their cars and their homes with insurance, they need to be insuring another valuable asset—their paycheck. That’s where disability insurance comes in: Think of it as insurance for your paycheck. It ensures that if you are unable to work because of illness or injury, you will continue to receive an income, enabling you to make ends meet until you’re able to return to work.
To enter the “Where Did My Paycheck Go?” Challenge, go to www.protectyourpaycheck.org. One lucky entrant will be chosen at random to win a “bonus paycheck” in the form of a $1,000 American Express gift certificate—Here’s hoping that it’s you!
May is Disability Insurance Awareness Month, the ideal time to make sure that your paycheck is properly protected with disability insurance.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Friday, April 30, 2010
Why Life Insurance?
Why Life Insurance
The death benefit:
- Brings a check to the family when they need it most.
- It keeps the family grounded and not having to move in with Gramma because they have to sell the house.
- Children do not have to change schools.
- Self fulfilling college fund!! When parents set up college funds, what happens to that plan if both parents(or even one) is taken away (meets the main man).......who funds the college plan then??? So the question to ask the parents is....do you want your children to go to college only if you LIVE???? Life insurance completes the plan instantly.
- There is no other product in the WORLD that you could put a few premiums into and then possibly create an instant estate of thousands and millions of dollars.
- Charities are created and continued.
- Business can be purchased.
- Businesses can continue.
- If the rep doesn't sell life insurance to his clients.......someone else will!
- Large estate tax burdens can be paid, leaving the estate whole. Stops the fire sale.
- Provides for the family, when the one insured cannot.
- Protects the insurability... if a permanent plan is purchased. Our health doesn't get "better" as we age.
- Here is a situation people do not like to talk about: God forbid your child dies. It does happen, we know. We know the final expenses are tremendous.....but another thought is "When will you be able to return to life and work again?.......a week?.....a month?.....a year?" I know if my girl was to die, I would be a basket case. I also know that people still have to provide for the survivors. The spouse, surviving children, mortgage payments, car payments, councilors, food,.......all of those bills continue. There is a place for coverage on children.
The death benefit:
- Brings a check to the family when they need it most.
- It keeps the family grounded and not having to move in with Gramma because they have to sell the house.
- Children do not have to change schools.
- Self fulfilling college fund!! When parents set up college funds, what happens to that plan if both parents(or even one) is taken away (meets the main man).......who funds the college plan then??? So the question to ask the parents is....do you want your children to go to college only if you LIVE???? Life insurance completes the plan instantly.
- There is no other product in the WORLD that you could put a few premiums into and then possibly create an instant estate of thousands and millions of dollars.
- Charities are created and continued.
- Business can be purchased.
- Businesses can continue.
- If the rep doesn't sell life insurance to his clients.......someone else will!
- Large estate tax burdens can be paid, leaving the estate whole. Stops the fire sale.
- Provides for the family, when the one insured cannot.
- Protects the insurability... if a permanent plan is purchased. Our health doesn't get "better" as we age.
- Here is a situation people do not like to talk about: God forbid your child dies. It does happen, we know. We know the final expenses are tremendous.....but another thought is "When will you be able to return to life and work again?.......a week?.....a month?.....a year?" I know if my girl was to die, I would be a basket case. I also know that people still have to provide for the survivors. The spouse, surviving children, mortgage payments, car payments, councilors, food,.......all of those bills continue. There is a place for coverage on children.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Monday, April 12, 2010
How New Health Care Reforms Make Single Payer Less Likely
How New Health Care Reforms Make Single Payer Less Likely: "
Filed under: Barack Obama, Health Care Reform, Healthcare Reform, Politics, Single Payer Tagged: Consumer Watchdog, government health plan, Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, public health insurance plan
"
There are those who view the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, the health care reform legislation signed into law by President Barack Obama, as the first step toward a complete government takeover of America’s health care system. While I don’t agree with their arguments, they do have a case to make. That is:
- because the reforms fail to restrain the out-of-control growth of medical costs, insurance premiums will continue to rise
- because the reforms place constraints on health insurance companies, the private sector will be squeezed between increases in the underlying cost of care and their ability to charge adequate premiums to cover those costs
- meanwhile the government-run health insurance exchanges, to be operational by 2014, which is also when Medicaid is set to dramatically expand, increases the percentage of health care coverage provided or made accessible by governments
Throw in a few other provisions (elements of the reform some say will undermine Medicare Advantage, the new taxes imposed on health insurance carriers and others), season to taste with paranoia and the belief that the recently passed health care reforms is merely the first steps down a path leading to a single payer system gains significant heft.
Given this scenario, one might expect folks on the left to be gleeful with the reforms. Many liberals publicly and fervently support a government-run health plan that would completely remove private health insurance companies from the marketplace. If they believed what emerged from Washington moved that goal closer, you’d expect them to celebrate, at least a little.
If so, the folks at Consumer Watchdog failed to get the memo. This group, led by Jerry Flanagan, considers health insurance companies to be the manifestation of evil in our plane of reality. OK, I’m paraphrasing here, but you get the idea. They are unabashed advocates of a single payer system for California and the nation.
On April 8th, wrote a letter to President Obama, Secretary of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius, and members of Congress identifying what it calls loopholes in the newly enacted health care reform bill. (Consumer Watchdog Letter on Health Care Reform Loopholes). Among the group’s concerns is that the minimum benefit requirements to be proposed by HHS will preempt stronger minimum benefit standards at the state level, that its approach to Medicare Advantage could “push traditional Medicare into an economic death spiral,” that the law fails to attack recent price hikes by pharmaceutical companies, and that carriers will continue to be permitted to rescind coverage for intentional misrepresentation, without creating new regulatory oversight to ensure that exception is not abused by health plans.
Most interesting, however, is Consumer Watchdog’s fear that the new health care reform bill will prevent states from adopting a single payer system at least until 2017. Under the heading “States Rights to Innovate,” the letter states, “Under the current law, states must wait until 2017 for waivers from the federal government to use federal Medicaid, Medicare, tax subsidies
and other funds to support state alternatives to the private insurance market, whether that
be by adopting a state single-payer model or a state ‘public option.’”
Since states can’t divert funds from existing public programs to new government programs, the new health care reform law blocks initiatives to create single payer systems at the state level. In fact, the new reforms block states from creating a health plan to compete with private carriers (unless it can do so without federal funds, tax subsidies and the like).
I suppose what this proves is there is a balance in the universe. The same legislation some fear will inevitably lead to a single payer system is the same legislation that prevents states from creating a single payer system.
Of course some will argue that this simply delays the coming of a single payer system to 2017. However, think about the recent reform package. The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. It was passed by the slimmest of margins and only after intense debate and adroit legislative maneuvering. It’s passage was possible only because Democrats occupy the White House and have substantial majorities in both chambers of Congress. Yet the legislation has no public option and is built around private health insurance. Nonetheless it is criticized as “socialism” by some and a “government takeover” by others.
Does anyone realistically believe the country is going to move further to the left in future elections? That’s one of the reasons the Administration pushed so hard to pass health care reform in 2009. The party occupying the White House nearly always loses seats in mid-term elections. They knew the Democratic majorities resulting from the 2006 and 2008 elections were the high watermark for Democrats in Congress. Long before the tea party started brewing the Administration understood the 2010 elections would reduce their working majorities in Congress. Why would anyone think future Congresses would be even more liberal than this one?
That’s why Consumer Watchdog is concerned about the new health care reform package. It prevents them from moving forward with a state public option or single payer system until 2017. And by then, given the pendulum that is American politics, the odds of a government takeover of health care is likely to be slimmer than it is today.
Filed under: Barack Obama, Health Care Reform, Healthcare Reform, Politics, Single Payer Tagged: Consumer Watchdog, government health plan, Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, public health insurance plan
"
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Friday, March 26, 2010
Contractor's Choice
Does your co. do any prevailing Wage, Public Works, or Davis-Bacon work? If so, I can now help you. If you are currently bidding or considering a bid dealing with Prevailing Wage, Public Works, or Davis-Bacon Work, I would like to introduce you to "Contractor's Choice". It's a Contractor's Fringe Benefit program that works year round for you and your employees.
Contractor's Choice Prevailing Wage Hour Bank Program is designed to assist Davis-Bacon, Prevailing Wage and Service Contract Act contractors in navigating through the maze of federal, state and city wage regulations. All the while maximizing profits and converting taxable payroll dollars into valuable tax-free employment benefits.
Contractor's Choice takes the worry out of compliance with Hour Bank administration, offering top-notch benefit choices in one smart tax-saving package. The Statement "time is money" is amplified with contractors working in the Prevailing Wage, Public Work, or Davis-Bacon programs.
For more information regarding Contractor's Choice simply call or email me.
Contractor's Choice Prevailing Wage Hour Bank Program is designed to assist Davis-Bacon, Prevailing Wage and Service Contract Act contractors in navigating through the maze of federal, state and city wage regulations. All the while maximizing profits and converting taxable payroll dollars into valuable tax-free employment benefits.
Contractor's Choice takes the worry out of compliance with Hour Bank administration, offering top-notch benefit choices in one smart tax-saving package. The Statement "time is money" is amplified with contractors working in the Prevailing Wage, Public Work, or Davis-Bacon programs.
For more information regarding Contractor's Choice simply call or email me.
More Bad News on Retiree Health Care Costs
There is no end to the gloomy prognostications regarding the challenges that Boomers face in retirement. The latest is a study by the Urban Institute, "Will Health Care Costs Bankrupt Aging Boomers," that contends rising health care costs will pose a significant threat to Boomers' financial security in their post-65 years. Between 2010 and 2040, median out-of-pocket medical expenses and insurance premiums for Americans 65 and older will more than double in constant 2008 dollars - from about $2,500 a year to about $6,200. (Those figures do not include the cost of long-term care, which typically does not require medical treatment.)
Monday, March 8, 2010
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Monday, February 8, 2010
A Little Work Never Hurt Nobody
The stock sell-off from the Global Financial Crisis could set back the incomes of roughly one in four Boomers by 10% or more. But working one extra year, to age 67, would significantly increase the odds of restoring their post-retirement income, concludes an issue brief published by the Urban Institute.
http://www.urban.org/UploadedPDF/412007_delaying_retirement.pdf
http://www.urban.org/UploadedPDF/412007_delaying_retirement.pdf
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Assurant Health
Hello all. I just wanted to share with everyone that I now offer insurance through Assurant Health.
http://katherinezacharias.mymedicalquotes.com
http://katherinezacharias.mymedicalquotes.com
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
What is Index Life?
Index Life is a fixed Universal Life product with interest crediting rates linked to a popular market index. The most common index used is the S&P 500. Index life is a product that is designed for your clients with moderate risk tolerance. The key benefits of an index policy is that there is no downside market risk, which is associated with Variable Universal Life. In addition, it has good upside potential with market CAPS around 11-12% that can't be achieved with traditional Universal Life. Some contracts even provide secondary guarantees on death benefit. For more information please contact me.
Monday, January 18, 2010
You are cordially invited to My Next FREE Money 101 dinner seminar
Date:
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Time:
6:30pm - 8:30pm
Location:
Old Spaghetti Factory
Street:
111 N Twin Oaks Valley Road
Description
The New Year is Here!
So, how are you going to make
2010 your best year ever??
Many people could be doing better with their finances with just a little education, especially right now!
After all, we go to school for 12 - 16 years to learn reading, writing & 'rithmetic, but never learn anything about how money works!
Please join us for dinner and an informative talk
Money 101
Learn how to apply financial principals to grow your money for college funding, retirement planning or simply wealth accumulation-- with money you never even knew you had!
If you've come to a previous event, you're more than welcome to come again. It's good information that's beneficial to everyone, even if you've heard it before.
Mike Wilk, President and Founder of Five Rings Financial will be flying in from Denver to be our presenter for this event!!
Please RSVP to me-- Look forward to seeing you there...Oh, and feel free to bring a friend!
Agenda:
6:30pm- 6:45pm * seating /order dinner
6:45pm- 7:45pm * Presentation with Mike
7:45pm - 8:30pm - Dinner is served, Q&A
Hope you can make it!
(If you have any questions, please call me)
This is an absolutely free event - you are our guest!
Now, that's money really working for you!
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Time:
6:30pm - 8:30pm
Location:
Old Spaghetti Factory
Street:
111 N Twin Oaks Valley Road
Description
The New Year is Here!
So, how are you going to make
2010 your best year ever??
Many people could be doing better with their finances with just a little education, especially right now!
After all, we go to school for 12 - 16 years to learn reading, writing & 'rithmetic, but never learn anything about how money works!
Please join us for dinner and an informative talk
Money 101
Learn how to apply financial principals to grow your money for college funding, retirement planning or simply wealth accumulation-- with money you never even knew you had!
If you've come to a previous event, you're more than welcome to come again. It's good information that's beneficial to everyone, even if you've heard it before.
Mike Wilk, President and Founder of Five Rings Financial will be flying in from Denver to be our presenter for this event!!
Please RSVP to me-- Look forward to seeing you there...Oh, and feel free to bring a friend!
Agenda:
6:30pm- 6:45pm * seating /order dinner
6:45pm- 7:45pm * Presentation with Mike
7:45pm - 8:30pm - Dinner is served, Q&A
Hope you can make it!
(If you have any questions, please call me)
This is an absolutely free event - you are our guest!
Now, that's money really working for you!
Thursday, January 7, 2010
You are cordially invited to My Complimentary January Seminars
Money 101
Host: KSWZ Insurance Services & Five Rings Financial
Education - Class
Monday, January 11, 2010
7:00pm - 8:30pm
The Hampton Inn
5638 Sepulveda Blvd.
Sherman Oaks, CA
RSVP on Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=233899984693&index=1
Money 101
Host: KSWZ Insurance Services & Five Rings Financial
Education - Class
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
6:30pm - 8:30pm
Old Spaghetti Factory
111 N Twin Oaks Valley Road
San Marcos, CA
RSVP on Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=232422958037&ref=mf
Wine, Women & Wealth
Host: KSWZ Insurance Services & Five Rings Financial
Party - Mixer
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
7:00pm - 9:00pm
The Wine Spot
2817 State Street
Carlsbad, CA
RSVP on Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=215572858630&ref=mf
Host: KSWZ Insurance Services & Five Rings Financial
Education - Class
Monday, January 11, 2010
7:00pm - 8:30pm
The Hampton Inn
5638 Sepulveda Blvd.
Sherman Oaks, CA
RSVP on Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=233899984693&index=1
Money 101
Host: KSWZ Insurance Services & Five Rings Financial
Education - Class
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
6:30pm - 8:30pm
Old Spaghetti Factory
111 N Twin Oaks Valley Road
San Marcos, CA
RSVP on Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=232422958037&ref=mf
Wine, Women & Wealth
Host: KSWZ Insurance Services & Five Rings Financial
Party - Mixer
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
7:00pm - 9:00pm
The Wine Spot
2817 State Street
Carlsbad, CA
RSVP on Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=215572858630&ref=mf
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