The Latest Small-Group Health Plan News

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For your Redlands-based small business, of one to one hundred employees, finding the right health plan can be a challenge. Amid so many options, fluctuating circumstances, and things to consider, the choice is often overwhelming. However, with informed guidance and attentive counsel, you and your employees will benefit from the security of a quality health insurance plan. This is where we at Bernardini and Donovan come in. We are here to provide you with expert advice as you make this critical decision for your valued team members. And before you finalize your choices, take note of these health insurance updates.

Latest small group health insurance news:

  1. In the fourth quarter of this year, those who are renewing their policies will notice a rate increase. This is caused by an added component of the Affordable Care Act called the Health Insurance Tax (HIT). Though it was anticipated to be repealed, it is now driving up costs. These price increases vary in severity ranging from three to four percent to 15 percent. As we anticipate this upcoming tax, there are some opportunities to offset these costs with other insurers. Though this option will not exempt you of this tax, it will alleviate it, so it is not so harsh.
  2. Rates seem to fluctuate with every quarter. That’s why in light of these increases, we can look forward to a rumored rate decrease in the first quarter of next year. Take note though that group plans are dependent upon their renewal date. This is the point at which your rate will be fixed for the next 12 months. And so, these changes will not affect your policy if it’s locked into what is called your rate guarantee.
  3. There is a new coverage option, specifically helpful for the small employer who is concerned that they will not have enough participants. The Portfolio Plan does not require any number of participants, making this one of our most competitive options and an excellent choice for small business owners.
  1. As you consider these updates and search for your ideal plan, keep in mind the value of your insurance broker’s customer service. While the price of a health coverage plan will remain the same across the board, the quality of your broker’s service is what really matters. So, look for a provider that will be there when you need them, who will help you care for your employees, and make sure to keep you compliant. These are the most valuable services a broker can provide. And these are what we at Bernardini and Donovan are proud to offer our clients right here in Redlands. If you are in search of a health coverage plan in any capacity, please do not hesitate to reach out. We are prepared to offer our expertise as we assist you in this complex decision-making process.

New California Health Insurance Mandates

California health insurance

For the most part, the Affordable Care Act, or Obamacare, has remained intact since President Trump’s election. However, in 2019, congress repealed what Trump found most troublesome about the plan. As a part of a major tax bill, the enforcement of individual mandates was eliminated in January of this year. Prior to this, individuals who were not covered by health insurance were subjected to a tax penalty of $695 per adult or 2.5 percent of their household income, whichever was higher. This was enforced with several exemptions to address the unique circumstances of each individual.

health insurance

However, California is among the handful of states that have passed legislation to reissue this individual mandate. And in 2020, its residents will be required to obtain qualified health insurance or face a tax penalty. But this time, it will look a bit different than that wish was issued on a federal level.

The penalty for uninsured Californians will remain the same. But if it goes unpaid, other assets of yours, like your home, will be targeted. So, as a Redlands, California local, it is vital that this fee does not go overlooked.

What are your options? 

Not only to avoid this fee, but for your general well-being and good health, be sure to purchase an insurance plan. We advise that you do so for you and your dependants as we approach 2020 and the season of open enrollment. And to simplify your process, be sure to contact us at Bernardini and Donovan for expert assistance in choosing the best plan for your needs.

Amid ever-changing legislature, your health insurance decisions may simultaneously fluctuate. That’s why, for your group and individual plans, and all of your coverage inquiries, we at Bernardini and Donovan are here for you. We are prepared to meet your specific needs with a plan that’s right for your Redlands-based business. Call on us today! 

5 Small Business Health Insurance Pitfalls

small business health insurance

Redlands small businesses face several challenges when it comes to employee health insurance. However, this must be made available for the benefit of each employee and the success of your company. Offering health insurance makes your employees more likely to stick around, keeps them happy and healthy, and can even save you money. So, while it may seem like a daunting endeavor, we advise that no matter the size of your company, you consider offering health insurance.

There are a few mistakes when implementing a health care plan for your employees of which to take note. Make sure that you are aware of their threat and of the ways these pitfalls can be avoided. And rest assured that, even when issues arise, there are often simple solutions.

California health insurance
  1. A misunderstanding of eligibility requirements. 
    There are a few things that might keep an individual from partaking in their employer’s health care insurance plan. That’s because a group insurance plan does not automatically prompt eligibility for every employee. Typically, employees are required to work a minimum of 30 hours a week and must fulfill a distinguished waiting period to gain eligibility. This all depends on your state, your insurance provider, and your particular policy. Make sure that upon implementing a new plan, your employees are aware of these requirements.
  2. Miscommunication about the waiting period.  The waiting period indicates the number of consecutive days an employee must work to gain eligibility for the health insurance plan. This number should be decided based on the time you believe is required to discern an employee’s loyalty to the company. And you must communicate this exact amount clearly to your new employees to avoid miscommunication and confusion.
  3. Paperwork mishaps.  Paperwork is something about which we can all commiserate. But despite its world-renowned nuisance, this is the paperwork you cannot overlook. Incomplete or untimely paperwork will cause several complications in your health insurance plan. So make sure that it is submitted with complete accuracy and on time. And be assured that if an employee is terminated, added, or needs to make changes to their coverage, their corresponding paperwork is updated correctly.
  4. Failing to reconcile carrier bills. If an employee is wrongly included or missing from a bill, you face the issue of someone either not receiving coverage or being overcharged. And while these bills are typically accurate, you ought to review them regularly for assurance.
  5. Neglecting to take action when something goes wrong. The Explanation of Benefits or EOB lists the date of service, cost, negotiated discount and deductible accounting and amount for which the patient is responsible. This must coincide with the patient’s medical bills. So if these are mismatched, or demonstrate an issue, be sure to take action immediately. There is often an easy solution to this problem, but it is best solved with urgency.

While these issues may pose significant setbacks to your business, choosing a local Redlands broker like Bernardini and Donovan will help alleviate their severity and prevalence. We are prepared to assist your choice in plans and to provide exceptional customer services as it is administered.

Health insurance is a vital aspect of one’s well being. It assures that upon unforeseen medical circumstances, an individual will be financially covered. This confidence, as one faces inevitable unknowns, is crucial to living well and happily. So, as a small business owner, be sure to provide insurance to your employees for their peace of mind and the benefit of your company. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us today for a simplified and seamless experience.

3 Questions For Your Doctor

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Health insurance is a vital aspect of our health and well-being. And the exponentially rising cost of healthcare is insurmountable without some level of insurance. So, it is crucial that we are covered in the case of an unforeseeable ailment or injury. However, health insurance is a complicated web of pure confusion. It takes an expert, someone who has devoted their entire career to the subject, to fully understand its ins and outs. And while you do not need to comprehend every aspect of insurance or even your own coverage completely, there are some things you’ll want to be sure are made clear.
If you’ve recently moved or required specialized medical attention, you may be seeking a new primary physician. And in this process, you’ll need to consider a few questions. To help you better understand your insurance, your doctor, and choose the best avenue of care for your needs, know what questions to ask your physician’s office. These will help you know what is covered by your insurance plan and what to expect in costs before you even book an appointment. Take out the guesswork and surprises, and take hold of your health care!
Health Insurance Concept - Doctor in hospital with health insurance related icon graphic interface showing healthcare people, money planning, risk management, medical treatment and coverage benefit.

Three questions to ask your doctor: 

1. Is this office covered by my current health insurance plan?

You can answer this inquiry in more than one way. You can simply call the office directly and ask. However, this might turn into quite a few phone calls to random doctors’ offices. Or you can check your health plan’s website for a provider directory. This may be a more direct and easily navigable solution. Also, check if your plan requires prior authorization before your visit. This will avoid charges that could otherwise be applied to your plan.

2. Does my health plan cover my healthcare requirements?

There are several essential health benefits covered by all private health care plans. These include prescription drugs, emergency visits, pregnancy, maternity, and newborn services. However, beyond these, each plan is a bit unique in its coverage. If you have questions about what particular services are covered, you can reach out to your plan for answers.

3. What will I be charged?

While you are free to visit an out-of-network provider, you’ll save the most money with someone who is in-network. This indicates that their office accepts your insurance, resulting in a smaller out-of-pocket fee. As discussed above, each plan is a bit different from the next. So avoid any unwelcome surprises and learn which services aren’t subject to your plan.
Insurance and finding a healthcare provider who is both in-network and compatible with your preferences and needs, can be a headache. That’s why we at Bernardini and Donovan are here for your insurance inquiries and navigation. Don’t go it alone- this is a complicated topic! So leave it to the experts. We’ll assist you in this process, finding the best options for your exact criteria.

California Vaccination Rates Dropping: What You Need to Know

California Vaccination Rates Dropping: What You Need to Know

For 3,000 years, smallpox was among the world’s most feared diseases. Over 80 percent of children faced an early death with the foreboding diagnosis. But in 1796, Edward Jenner developed the first successful vaccine against smallpox. And upon his discovery, millions of lives were spared from this deadly disease. So today, we celebrate Jenner’s genius and the worldwide eradication of smallpox.

Since 1796, 14 more diseases have been held at bay or made less-prominent by the invention and wide administration of vaccines. They are now generally non-threatening to western civilization. These diseases include polio, tetanus, flu, hepatitis B, hepatitis A, rubella, Hib, measles, whooping cough, pneumococcal disease, rotavirus, mumps, chickenpox, and diphtheria. While they still exist, each of these is far less common in the United States. Today, our society is healthier and safer thanks to modern medicine the contributions of vaccines.

smallpoxWhile vaccines are essential to the prosperity of humankind, communities of non-medical skeptics have turned against immunizations. Anti-vaccine groups strongly oppose these preventative measures, causing some regression in societal health in recent years. Just this year, we’ve seen the repercussions of this dangerous anti-vaccine sentiment. According to the California Department of Public Health, the 2018-2019 school year’s vaccine rate among California kindergarteners dropped from 95.1 percent to 94.8 percent. This drop is likely due to the 70 percent increase in medical vaccine exemptions obtained by parents this past year.

While medical exemptions were distributed, physicians are suspicious that in such a short period, so many people developed new illnesses, keeping them from receiving vaccinations. It is more likely that these exemptions were given for the patients’ personal beliefs, which under California law, is illegal.

This is frightening. While the vaccination rate among kindergarteners has dropped less than one percentage point (.9%), the concentration of unprotected people is what is concerning. According to physicians, 95 percent of people near one another must be immunized to prevent the spread of disease. This is called herd immunity. So, if a few people are not vaccinated, there is no significant threat. However, an entire community could be at higher risk for disease outbreak if it contains multiple low-vaccine-rate schools. And several California communities fit these alarming criteria.

According to data collected by the L.A. Times, about 1,500 schools in California reported a kindergarten vaccine rate under the safe limit of 95 percent. And 400 of these schools can be found in Los Angeles county, half of which are located within a half-mile of each other. So, in the case of disease outbreak, entire communities could be at serious risk.

What to do…

Be sure that you and your children are up to date on required immunizations, including the yearly flu shot. These preventative measures will not only impact your own health but that of those around you. And if you are concerned about the vaccination rate at your school, check out Shots for School to see how your’s is doing. Take care and stay up-to-date on your vaccines!

We at Bernardini and Donovan strive to promote the health of you and your family. We are here for your health insurance needs and prepared to assist your particular requirements. Do not hesitate to call on us for unmatched health insurance services.

Back to School Health Checklist

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With the close of Summer, August marks the start of the next school year. And in anticipation for the first day of school, there are a few things that first must be accomplished. You’ll, of course, make your annual school supplies Target run. You might pick up a few fresh outfits. And you’ll want to be sure to make the most of these last summer days. However, it is also important that you consider your children’s health and preventative care as they enter a new grade. There are several ways to ensure their preparedness and start the year off right! Check out our checklist on your children’s’ back-to-school health!

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9 Ways to Prepare Your Children for the Start of School.

1. Immunize.

This is a significant step in ensuring the safety of your children and those they encounter. Vaccines have eradicated several deadly diseases, making our society far safer. So, be sure to do your part and keep your children’s’ vaccinations up to date. It is also required in all 50 states, that school-aged children be immunized against measles, mumps, rubella, pertussis, and chicken pox. Receiving immunizations can be coupled with your child’s annual doctor’s check-up.

2. Get a flu shot. 

Flu shots similarly promote the safety of your child and those around them. However, this is not only good for your children. Everyone over the age of 6 months should get a flu shot every year. So, you ought to join in on the fun as well! Take your whole family to receive your shots, ideally before the start of flu season in October.

3. Prioritize good sleep hygiene.

Summer is likely to throw off your schedule a bit. So make sure that a proper sleep routine is re-implemented before the start of the school year. Remember that children require plenty of sleep: 10 hours for school-aged kids, and 9-10 hours for teens. Without adequate amounts of sleep, your child will struggle to focus and engage in the classroom.

4. Value the lunch box.

The food your children eat at school will influence their ability to learn, interact with others, and enjoy their day. So make sure to pack with them, nutritious and kid-approved food. Include fresh fruits and vegetables, protein-rich items such as nuts and lean meats, and swap out white bread for whole-grain! Find what healthy foods your kids enjoy eating and cater to those preferences.

5. Inform your kids of the ways of the road.

If your kids make their own way to school, either by foot or bicycle, be sure that they are aware of traffic safety rules. Teach them to use the sidewalk when available. And in the case that there is no sidewalk, to use the shoulder of the road, facing traffic.

6. Lighten their load.

Backpacks are often stuffed with books, binders, colors, and everything in between, making them quite heavy. This load can be harmful to your child’s neck, back, and shoulders. So, to ensure their comfort and health, watch the weight of their backpacks. It is advised that their packs to not exceed 10-15% of their body weight.

7. Get their eyes checked.

One’s ability to see is integral to their learning capabilities. So, be sure to take your child to get their eyes checked in case they require glasses. Also, look for signs of any sight-impairments. If they are squinting, closing one eye to read, or they hold their book exceptionally close, you may need to check the status of their vision. A child who is unable to see properly faces a significant learning barrier.

8. Emphasize good hygiene and cold-preventing habits.

Returning to school also marks the return of abounding germs. And while your children are up against all odds, there are several ways to help maintain their good health. Emphasize the importance of thorough hand washing, cover their sneezes and using tissues, and not touching their eyes, nose, and mouth.

9. Inform your school of health issues.

Keep your school updated on special restrictions and instruction to keep your child healthy. Make sure that they are aware of all allergies and health problems.

This school year, be sure to prioritize your children’s health and well-being. From packing their lunch to scheduling doctor’s visits, you have the opportunity to give them the best start! And to insure your health care needs, do not hesitate to call on us at Bernardini and Donovan for expert advice and counsel. We are here for you and your entire family in this upcoming school year!

4 Things You Need to Know About The 2019 Measles Outbreak

California health insurance

One of the most interesting health issues to resurface this year has been the Measles. Which is interesting because, in the year 2000, the United States was able to declare that the Measles had been eliminated. However, in these last six months, we have seen 1077 cases. A number that is still growing. The last time we saw these kinds of numbers was in 1992. Here is what you need to know about these recent outbreaks:

1. Over 26 states have reported a Measles breakout

These states include: Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, New Mexico, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas, Tennessee, and Washington.

2. Small Community Centered

Most of the reported breakouts include a small number of people affected; only a couple at a time. But the most significant reported amounts are in an Orthodox Jewish Community in New York City, specifically in Rockland County. This group has been vaccine skeptic, and the measles virus has spread wildly. So much so that the mayor of New York City, Bill de Blasio, declared a public health emergency on April 9th. He said that anyone who has not been vaccinated within a specific zip code must get the vaccine. If they refused, they would be fined $1,000.

3. It’s an aggressive virus.

You may have the virus and not show any symptoms. A person can have it up to four days before they ever show signs, and they can easily infect another person during that time if a person who has contracted the measles were to walk into a room, cough and then leave. Hours later, an unvaccinated person could get the virus from the droplets in the air from the infected person. No other virus can do that.

4. It’s making its way into the US from tourists

Many of the outbreaks that stemmed from people that have traveled to countries where measles still is a significant problem. Outbreaks in California have originated from strains of measles found in Vietnam or Thailand. New York’s epidemic seems to come from Jerusalem. If you are traveling to another country this summer, the CDC recommends that you are up on your vaccines so that you do not contract this aggressive virus.

If more people are vaccinated, it creates what is called the herd effect. It helps the people who cannot get vaccines like small children or people or autoimmune diseases from getting the disease. If you need to check up on your vaccines, make sure to call your doctor. If you have already been vaccinated for measles, most people do not need a have the vaccine again, but if you got it before 1967, you might. Your doctor will be able to help you determine what you need as far as vaccines go.

Catching Up On Your Preventative Care

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When we get sick in the winter, as much as we don’t like it, it’s the season that we expect to get sick. With the cold weather and more dreary environment, a scratchy throat or runny nose seems to come with the territory. But when Summer hits, that is not the time to get sick! Is there anything worse that feeling unwell on your summer vacation? Or is it going to be a beach with a stuffed up nose? One of the things that your healthcare provides for you is preventative care.

PREVENTIVE CARE

There is no charge involved, and it does exactly what it says it does. It keeps you from getting sick. And while Summer doesn’t always make us think about going to the doctor, it is a great time to make sure that you are healthy. But what exactly is involved? Preventative care includes the following

  • Immunizations and vaccines

    If you read our last blog on the measles, you probably have a good idea of how effective vaccines can be for your health. Many standard immunizations such as the TdAp (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis) or the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) are all standard immunizations. Your doctor can help you know if you should need them at all or if it is time for a booster.

  • Wellness check-ups

    Essentially, these check-ups are to make sure that you are healthy. Sometimes they are also called a yearly physical. It can help your doctor know how to better care for you when you are sick. They can measure your weight, height, blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol so that when you come back the following year, they can see if you’ve had any significant changes and can address them better.

  • Screenings for cholesterol, cancer, diabetes, depression, and obesity

    Health professionals realize that these issues are some of the most likely to affect our society. So to ensure that a person does not neglect to get the help that they need, these screening are part of their preventative care.

Preventative care can help you in the long run because tests, screenings, and immunizations like these can catch life-altering health issues early while they are most receptive to care. Call your doctor today to make an appointment with them to receive this preventative care that comes with your health insurance.

5 Tips For Your Healthiest Summer

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With Summer here, its time to go out and have an adventure. It’s time to take a vacation! It’s time to live your best life!! And having that best life means not only being happy but being healthy. Here are five tips for your healthiest Summer.

  • Its all about that water

    Our bodies need water to function! Keep your body happy and make sure that you are drinking plenty of water. If you are starting to feel a little bit hungry, that may be your first sign that you are dehydrated! Pick up a glass of water before your pick up a snack and see how you feel. Most likely, you’ll be more full and will feel better.

health insurance
health insurance
  • Eat all the colors of the rainbow

    When eating its essential that your plate has a full spectrum of color to ensure that you are getting all of the vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that you need. This can look like a colorful salad with tomatoes, yellow peppers, carrots, and berries. Or it could be a kabob with mushrooms, red onion, bell peppers and pineapple on it. Be creative and see how many colors you can get into your meals.

  • Be social while you eat

    It is easy to want to overeat when delicious foods surround you at parties, bbqs, and gatherings. Here are a few tips to keep your intake in check. Sit down while you eat. You’re less likely to keep eating if you’ve moved to a seated position over standing by the food. Then talk to someone while you eat. If you are talking to someone, you are eating slower and filling up more between eat a bite. If you are going out to eat, try sharing a meal. Restaurants typically have more substantial portions than what we require. Not only will you be full, but you will also save on a meal!

healthy eating
health insurance
  • Smart snacking

    Have a mid-morning or mid-afternoon snack can help you feel fuller longer. But what you snack on matters! We suggest nuts. They are full of healthy unsaturated fats! If you want to take your snack on the go, try getting snack sized baggies. You can portion out your snacks ahead of time, and you won’t overeat so that your snack turns into a meal. If you are about to head out to a party that you know will be full of unhealthy foods, you should eat before you eat! Grabbing some fruit before a party can help fill you up before you go and gorge yourself on your mom’s potato salad.

  • Play outside

    Use the warm summer weather to get out of the gym during your workouts. Hiking, biking, running, swimming is all an excellent way to get in exercise while outdoors. You could also choose a family-friendly activity and bring the whole family along. Nothing beats bonding with your loved ones over a shared activity. If you are on vacation, try walking to your destinations. Many places outside of the US are more walking friendly, and you will experience your vacation spot in a whole new way. You’ll be like one of the locals!

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Know Before You Go: Quick Tips to Take Before You Travel

Tips to Take Before You Travel

As you plan your summer vacation, the last thing that you plan for is to get sick. However, studies have shown that around 15% of travelers experience some medical need during their travels. It can range from accidents or injuries surrounding their exciting plans or could be that they fall sick from some foreign bug. Either way, travelers that experience these type of medical needs often have some questions about how their medical needs will be paid for. So before you go on vacation, here are a few tips to make sure that your health has a priority.

health insurance
  • Call Your Health Provider

    One of the easiest ways to find out if your health provider will pay for out of the country health benefits is to ask them! Some health policies will provide a certain amount of health coverage, but many will make you pay out of pocket and then submit for reimbursement. And if you have original Medicare, there is not international coverage. You will want to make sure that you are asking the following questions:

    • Will my policy cover me while I travel abroad?
    • Will I have to submit for a reimbursement
    • Will my coverage include preexisting conditions
    • Ask about injuries that are due to circumstances outside of your control, such as acts of war, natural disaster, or acts of terror?
    • Will preauthorization be needed for treatment in a hospital?
  • Get a Quote for Travel Medical Insurance

    This type of insurance is different than travel insurance because it focuses on your medical care or you need for evacuation instead of trip cancellation. If you should get injured or sick while on a trip, it helps to pay for your medical needs, and if you were to get injured in a remote area where you could not receive proper medical care, it would cover the cost of the evacuation to get to an appropriate hospital. Many types of travel insurance also include this aspect, so make sure that you are looking at precisely what is covered when you purchase it. It will usually cost you to 4-8% of what you have paid to go on your trip.

  • Don’t take unnecessary risks

    While we understand that for some, going on an adventure is part of their vacation, it is important that you are not signing up for an unsafe situation. Many times accidents that happen while on vacation are simply that, accidents. A person trips while walking on cobblestones or one may be involved in a car accident. These are all very normal if not unfortunate circumstances. But if you are signing up for an experience, make sure you are working with a reputable company that complies with basic safety standards.

    We hope that your summer vacations are full of fun and excitement and that sickness and injury stay far away. But if you should get ill, we hope that you’ve taken these tips to heart and covered yourself for any travel mishaps that you may encounter.

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