Also this year, health plans are required to report the proportion of premium dollars spent on clinical services, quality and other costs.
Other provisions soon to take effect to know about:
- Establishing an Internet Web site to help residents identify health coverage options. This is set to take effect on July 1. Also, developing a standard format for presenting information on coverage options. This is effective in less than 60 days.
- Creating a grant program to support the delivery of evidence-based and community-based prevention and wellness services aimed at reducing chronic disease rates. Funds will be appropriated for five years beginning this fiscal year. (Both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are chronic conditions.)
The law calls for the establishment next year of the National Prevention, Health Promotion and Public Health Council to coordinate federal prevention, wellness and public health activities. A national strategy on improving the nation’s health is due one year following the law’s enactment. The Arthritis Foundation will be working with this Council to prioritize arthritis, adds Melnick.
For more information…
Health Care Reform: A Q&A With Amy Melnick, Vice President, Public Policy, Arthritis Foundation
Find out the Arthritis Foundation’s perspective on the Health Reform law, including, highlights of the provisions that affect people with arthritis, what remains to be accomplished from the Arthritis Prevention, Control and Cure Act (H.R. 1210/S. 984), and what is next for the Arthritis Foundation’s advocacy efforts in the area health care.
