health insurance | Bernardini & Donovan

November 28, 2014September 8, 2016

“Metal Level” Insurance Categories: Explained!

Open enrollment 2015 is finally upon us! Now is the time to be consumed with thoughts of health care in order to financially prepare yourself for the future. If you are preparing for the important decision of selecting your new health plan, you are probably aware that there are a number of different insurance categories to choose from. The categories differ based on how medical expenses will be shared between you and your plan.

Five main categories currently exist, and are known in the health care world as “metal levels”. The different levels take an individual’s monthly premium, coinsurance, copay, deductible, and out-of-pocket maximum into consideration. Here is a break down of the metal levels:

With a bronze level plan, you will pay approximately 40%, while your health plan will cover 60%.
In a silver plan, the costs are split into 70%, and 30%. You will pay the 30%, and your health care plan will pay about 70%.
With a gold level plan, you will only pay about 20%! Your health plan will cover the remaining 80%!
A platinum level health plan will pay all but 10%. The remaining 10% will be up to you.
Catastrophic coverage plans are only applicable for individuals under the age of 30! Those with this type of plan will also need to qualify for a hardship exemption. Catastrophic coverage plans pay under 60% of health expenses.

In order to choose the right plan for your needs, at a price that you can afford, you must consult with a Certified Covered California Broker. These individuals have the experience necessary to provide you with quality health care advice. Contact Bernardini & Donovan Insurance Services to get in contact with a broker, and make the open enrollment process much easier!

November 21, 2014September 8, 2016

Important Open Enrollment 2015 Deadlines!

2014 is quickly coming to a close! The middle of November has passed, which means we are in the midst of open enrollment season. If you have not already taken the time to evaluate your current, and future health care needs, now is the time to do so. Knowing what you do and do not need in a health plan will make the selection process much easier.

In order to secure your new health plan, you need to make sure you meet the appropriate deadlines. You are only allowed to go 3 months with a gap in your coverage before you will be ordered to pay an expensive fine. In order to avoid this, and save yourself some time and money, familiarize yourself with these important dates:

Open enrollment 2015 officially begins on November 15^th of 2014.
The final day to enroll for a health plan that will kick in on January 1^st, 2015 is December 31^st, 2014.
All health plans purchased through the 2014 Marketplace will cease to be effective beginning December 31^st, 2014.
January 1^st, 2015 is the first date that new health coverage can begin.
Open enrollment 2015 will close on February 15^th, 2015.

Make sure that you do not miss any of these crucial deadlines. Do not take the risk of being under or uninsured for any amount of time. You will surely regret it when you are in the face of a health care-related emergency!

The best way to navigate the 2015 Marketplace is to first contact a Certified Covered California Broker. These individuals have the knowledge and experience necessary to guide you through the complex, and often confusing world of health care. They can dispense quality advice that will make choosing the right plan for you much easier. Certified Covered California Brokers can even find ways to save you money! Please contact Bernardini & Donovan Insurance Services to speak with a licensed agent today!

October 10, 2014September 8, 2016

Using an Insurance Broker to Successfully Maneuver the Open Enrollment Period

If you are one of the many Americans who missed Obamacare’s first open enrollment period, it is important that you start preparing so that you can be ready when the second open enrollment period arrives. If you miss this second period, you will be forced to pay a penalty for each month that you do not have health insurance. Unless you qualify for the special enrollment period, you could be paying hefty penalties for several months until the third open enrollment period arrives.

The second Covered California open enrollment period starts on November 15, 2014 and will end on February 15, 2015. During this time, you must obtain health insurance in order to avoid the penalty. During the weeks leading up to the second open enrollment period, you will want to gather all important documents such as birth certificates, proof of citizenship, etc. If you find the market exchange confusing, an insurance broker can guide you through this complicated process.

We understand how confusing the laws and regulations surrounding Obamacare can be, especially if you have never purchased health insurance before. Many individuals who are inexperienced in purchasing health insurance benefit immensely by using a broker. Insurance brokers such as the experienced brokers at Bernardini & Donovan Insurance Services guide you through each step of the health insurance process, free of charge. Our experience makes us the perfect candidates to sit down and compare varying plans and policies with you, to ensure that you obtain the most affordable policy possible.

Contact Bernardini & Donovan Insurance Services in Redlands for all of your California health insurance needs. We are extremely knowledgeable in all regulations and laws surrounding the Affordable Care Act, which is why we are the perfect team to guide you in your health insurance endeavors. We can help ensure that your health insurance complies will all new rules and regulations.

September 5, 2014September 8, 2016

Carrier Changes for Covered California

As the next open enrollment period fast approaches, many state insurance exchanges are preparing for the overflow of traffic. Most state insurance exchanges have begun preparing for the second Obamacare enrollment period by adding new carriers. However, Covered California did not follow the trend, rather they chose to decrease in size. Yes, you heard right!

As one of the largest states in America, many were surprised to hear that Covered California only had 13 carriers at the start of the first open enrollment period. This year, Covered California will only have 10 carriers. For any other state, 10 carriers would suffice. Of the 10 Covered California carriers, only 4 of them are major insurers with Kaiser Permanente, Blue Shield of California, Health Net, and Anthem Blue Cross.

As if your freedom of choice was not taken with the implementation of Obamacare in the first place, forcing all Americans to obtain health insurance, you now have even less choice. Many regions throughout California are forced to depend on the only insurance carrier available to them, eliminating choice altogether.

Many insurance experts are fearful of the lack of choice Covered California has provided. Since the lack of varying insurance carriers eliminates competition fears continue to rise about the success of Covered California. One main concern that many insurance experts have brought to everyone’s attention is the insurance carrier’s ability to raise prices for insurance. The purpose of Obamacare is to provide Americans with affordable health care, however, the lack of multiple participating carriers gives contributing carriers the ability to raise prices, because there is a lack of many other health insurance options.

We understand that the various implications surrounding Covered California may have you confused, and that is why we are available to dispel any myths and reveal only the truth. Contact Bernardini & Donovan Insurance Services for all of your California health insurance needs.

August 22, 2014September 8, 2016

How Will Covered California Affect My Health Insurance?

With the introduction of Covered California, better known as Obamacare, many individuals and businesses are left wondering how the implications will affect their lives. Health exchanges have been put in place, providing individuals and businesses with a specific place where they can purchase health insurance through Covered California.

Although these health exchanges have been put in place, many Californians will continue purchasing health insurance from insurance companies, brokers, and private health exchanges. Since the majority of California residents who purchase health insurance will not qualify for government tax subsidies, many individuals would prefer to avoid purchasing health insurance from the state exchange service.

If you choose to purchase health insurance on an off-exchange plan, you will still be receiving top quality care. This is because the off-exchange plans are required to follow the 10 essential health benefits, offering the following 10 necessities:

Services during emergencies
Outpatient care without hospital admittance
Hospitalization
Maternity care and newborn care
Care for those with mental health and substance abuse problems
Prescription medications
Rehab and rehabilitative services
Laboratory facilities
Pediatric care
Preventative care

While there are still options for health insurance, it is now required by law that you obtain health insurance. Under the recent health care reform, all individuals must have health insurance. Likewise, there are a variety of legal requirements businesses must abide by now. If you have more than 50 full-time employees, you are now required by law to offer those employees health insurance. The next open enrollment period is fast approaching, so be sure to get informed so that you can make the appropriate health insurance decision based on your unique needs.

We understand that the various implications surrounding the Affordable Care Act may have you confused, and that is why we are available to dispel any myths and reveal only the truth. Contact Bernardini & Donovan Insurance Services for all of your California health insurance needs.

August 4, 2014September 8, 2016

5 Ways to Stay Healthy on Vacation

As you’ve been hitting the gym constantly and watching what you eat before your summer vacation, there is no reason to lose all that progress as you enjoy your trip. While many think it is impossible to maintain a healthy lifestyle while on vacation, there are a variety of ways to stay healthy but still enjoy yourself. Consider incorporating these 5 helpful tips to maintain a healthy lifestyle while on vacation:

In order to save both money and calories, you will want to have at least one meal at your hotel or rental property each day. If you are renting a property, you’ll have more freedom to indulge in a tasty but healthy meal. If you will be staying in a hotel, consider bringing breakfast bars, cereal, or oatmeal.
Remember portion control as you dine out. It is nearly impossible to avoid restaurants altogether while vacationing, therefore, you’ll have to remind yourself that you do not have to finish the entire dish. You will also want to order all sauces and dressings on the side so that you can choose how much you consume.
If you want to consume alcohol while on vacation, remember that you’ll want to drink only water and sparkling water on all other occasions. Avoid fruity drinks that will be loaded with calories and sugars such as Mai Tais and Pina Coladas. Rather, stick to straight shooters or vodka with sparkling water and lime.
Whenever possible, walk to your destination. You may want to make an effort to go on a walk after each meal so that you don’t feel bloated and guilty for enjoying yourself.
Unlike when you’re home exercising, many vacation activities involve exercising in a FUN way. Go zip lining through the forest or indulge on a scenic hike with your spouse.

Bernardini & Donovan Insurance Services strives to provide Redlands, California residents with excellent insurance services custom tailored to meet your unique needs. Contact us today and allow us customize a unique health insurance package for your family based on your needs.

July 28, 2014September 8, 2016

Ongoing Changes in ACA Regulations

Since its establishment, the Affordable Care Act has stirred much controversy and confusion. Both individuals and businesses have experienced a wide range of changes due to this new law. As a business owner, it is crucial that you are in compliance and knowledgeable of the following:

A small business with less than 50 employees working full-time is not required to offer healthcare to their employees.
The number of full-time employees is calculated by the previous year’s number of full-time employees.
While the idea of seasonal employees may make identifying the actual number of full-time employees more challenging, typically, if a seasonal worker is employed for less than 120 days each year, they are not considered a full-time employee.
As a business owner with more than one entity, you will be required to combine the total number of full-time employees from each business to determine the actual number of full-time employees. This will determine if a business owner is required to offer their employees’ healthcare benefits.
The healthcare that is offered to employees must be affordable, providing the minimum level of coverage to both the full time employee and their dependents.
Minimum level coverage is determined by the percentage of total allowed cost of benefits, which must be at least 60 percent.
If you are a small business owner or farmer, there are certain options you must consider. You may be eligible to deduct 100 percent of uncovered medical expenses as a business expense.
In order to avoid any penalties, it is strongly encouraged that you seek the advice of one of the many administrative organizations to make sure you have compiled with all new laws and regulations, including the Treatment Alternatives of Safe Communities (TASC).

July 14, 2014September 8, 2016

Covered California: FAQs about Special Enrollment Period

As a complex manner, the rules and regulations of Covered California often confuse people. If you have recently experienced a life changing event and believe you are qualified for the Special Enrollment Period, you may have a few questions about what the next step is. As Certified Covered California Agents, the insurance experts at Bernardini & Donovan Insurance Services can guide you through the process and ease your worries.

After your qualifying life event occurs, you have 60 days to enroll in Covered California through the Special Enrollment Period. If you wait until after the 60 day period, you will be required to wait until the next open enrollment period.
Most qualifying life events make you eligible to enroll online. During this process, many recommend that you meet with a Certified Covered California Agent, such as with the Bernardini & Donovan team, so that you can determine if your qualifying life event allows you to enroll online.
Inform yourself of any gaps in coverage. This may occur if you finish your existing health insurance plan before your new health insurance coverage begins.
The date your health insurance coverage will begin depends on the date you enroll. If you enroll during the first fifteen days of any given month, your coverage will begin on the first day of the following month. If you enroll during the second half of any given month, your coverage will begin on the first of the second following month.

The insurance experts at Bernardini & Donovan Insurance Services are Certified Covered California Agents who can help you through the process, for FREE. We can answer any and all of your questions about whether you qualify for the Special Enrollment Period. Although we are located in Redlands, we serve all residents within our California family. Contact us today and we can help you determine when the best time to enroll your family in Covered California would be.

July 7, 2014September 8, 2016

Covered California: Special Enrollment Period

Once open enrollment for Covered California comes to an end, the only way you can enroll in a Covered California health insurance plan is if you experience one of the specific life changing events. If you have recently experienced a life changing event and missed the open enrolling period for Covered California, you may want to double check with the list of qualifying events for special enrollment. We have compiled a list of the qualifying events for your convenience. At Bernardini & Donovan Insurance Services, we are Certified Covered California Agents, so any of your remaining questions can be promptly answered by our skilled team.

Qualifying Life Events for the Special Enrollment Period:

Getting married or entering a domestic partnership
Adopt a child, receive a child into foster care, or put a child in adoption or in foster care
Change of permanent residence
If you are released from jail or prison
If you lose your current health insurance. This includes if you lose health insurance through your job or are no longer eligible to receive Medi-Cal
Fluctuating income that results in sporadic eligibilities and ineligibilities.
If you become a citizen, natural, or lawfully present individual. This only applies to those who were previously not considered citizens, nationals, or lawfully present.
Wrongful enrollment due to misconduct or misrepresentation of your health insurance provider.
If you applied before March 31^st, and received a denial notice from Medi-Cal after March 31^st.
Incorrect denial for Covered California or Medi-Cal coverage
A member of a federally recognized American Indian or Alaska Native tribe – Eligible for one-a-month enrollment
Case-by-case basis to determine eligibility

June 23, 2014September 8, 2016

COBRA Participants Special-Enrollment Period

Recent health care reform has experienced a few bumps in the road during its establishment but Covered California is finally in full swing. Until July 15^th, Covered California will be offering a limited-time, special-enrollment period for those currently enrolled with COBRA medical insurance.

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) created Covered California, which is designed to guide California individuals and families towards the path of affordable health insurance coverage. After the establishment of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, over 1.4 million California residents have begun receiving health coverage through Covered California.

There are a variety of insurance coverage options under Covered California that you must choose from. If you are trying to decide whether or not to continue with your COBRA or obtain a Covered California plan, it is best to consider your options. As a qualified individual for premium tax credits, the Covered California route could potentially cost you less each month than your existing COBRA plan.

Before adopting a Covered California plan, you may also want to check with the available doctor and hospital networks you will have access to. Most importantly, do the sufficient research. You will want to compare and contrast the deductibles and co-pays of both your existing COBRA plan and the plans offered by Covered California. If you choose to drop your current plan at COBRA, you must do so before July 15^th. It is important to note that if you are unhappy with your Covered California plan after dropping your COBRA plan, you cannot return to your previous plan.

The insurance experts at Bernardini & Donovan Insurance Services are Certified Covered California Agents who can help you through the process, for FREE. Although we are located in Redlands, we serve all residents within our California family. Contact us today and we can help you determine whether or not to stay with your existing COBRA plan or adopt a Covered California plan.

Tag: health insurance