On Memorial Day

We honor the brave men and women who have given their lives to preserve the freedoms and promise of America.  In observance of Memorial Day, our office will be closed Monday, May 28, 2018.

Final regulations and related guidance on 2019 Affordable Care Act (ACA) provisions

On April 9, 2018, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) issued final regulations and related guidance on Affordable Care Act (ACA) provisions including the Ten Essential Health Benefits (EHBs), annual out-of-pocket (OOP) maximums, and Marketplace updates and reforms.

The final rule affords greater flexibility to states for determining EHBs, reduces some regulatory requirements in the individual and small group markets and provides annual benefit provision updates. Additional guidance expands the individual mandate hardship exemptions available for 2018 for people living in states with federally-facilitated Marketplaces. (more…)

Health Net of Arizona Update

From Health Net of Arizona

It is after thoughtful consideration that Centene Corp. has decided to reduce our product offerings in the Arizona market to focus our resources on serving the underinsured and uninsured (Medicaid, Medicare, and Marketplace) populations. Therefore, HealthNet of Arizona and HealthNet Life Insurance Company will exit the small and large group markets in Arizona.  We understand this may be disruptive to you and your clients and we appreciate your support during this transition period.  (more…)

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona Medicare Members *ALERT*

LOSS OF LOW-INCOME SUBSIDY (LIS) LETTERS MAILED

Loss of low-income subsidy (LIS) letters were mailed to members who no longer qualify for extra help with their Medicare prescription drug costs effective January 1, 2018. The letter included members’ new premium and cost-sharing amounts that went into effect January 1, 2018. Members who no longer have the subsidy can switch plans as part of a special enrollment period (SEP) or stay with the same plan. The letters were sent to 214 Blue MedicareRx members. A sample letter is available here. (more…)

IRS Issues New Guidance on Qualified Small Employer HRAs

On Oct. 31, 2017, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) issued Notice 2017-67 to provide comprehensive guidance on a variety of topics regarding qualified small employer health reimbursement arrangements (QSEHRAs). Small employers that do not maintain group health plans may establish QSEHRAs for their employees, effective for plan years beginning on or after Jan. 1, 2017. Unlike other health accounts, QSEHRAs can be used to reimburse employees for their health insurance premiums. (more…)