Government health insurance can provide the coverage your family needs.
Federal health insurance regulations generally apply to federal programs like COBRA, Medicaid and HIPAA. These programs are designed for individuals who otherwise do not qualify for health insurance but need the coverage. The insurance coverage under these laws is largely determined by income; however, you must know the insurance regulations governing these programs if you want to apply for them.
ERISA
The Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) lets employers offer private health insurance benefits that are not regulated at the state level. These benefits fall under a self-insurance program that can be offered by employers. A self-insurance fund for health insurance will be regulated by federal law. This also means that state regulations which act to provide certain protections to employees will not apply if an employer uses a self-insured health insurance plan.
COBRA
COBRA extends health insurance benefits to employees who work for an employer that employs 20 or more people. The health insurance coverage under COBRA extends to the spouse and dependents of the primary insured. These benefits are considered a right under the law and must be offered at group health insurance rates by the employer. Coverage can last 18 to 36 months depending on the event that led to the employee's termination from employment. Generally, employees cannot claim COBRA benefits if termination was due to gross misconduct.
HIPAA
HIPAA laws provide access to health insurance and aim to stop discrimination against people with medical needs. HIPAA sets a minimum level of consumer protections for group health insurance that includes guaranteed renewability and limitations on preexisting exclusions. Health insurers are not allowed to discriminate against employees entering into group health plans based on health status.
HIPAA also provides guarantees to individuals leaving their jobs so that they will have access to health insurance regardless of their current health condition.
Tags: health insurance, group health, access health, access health insurance, COBRA extends
