Insurers say legislation will increase premium costs

Results from the Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield cost analysis.

Through this article from the Las Vegas Review-Journal, the insurance industry claims that prices for health coverage will rise if the new legislation backed by democrats is implemented.  More specifically, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield is the most recent company to provide evidence backing this argument widely supported by the industry.  Others backing the public option say these numbers are in fact a scare tactic used by the insurance industry to prevent the bill from being passed by Congress.  In fact, these individuals claim that prices will most likely rise more without the public option being a viable alternative.   This article gives two interesting perspectives on an important aspect of this debate and data is explained, which is always helpful in deciding what interests are best for you.

Link: HEALTH CARE REFORM: Insurers issue warnings

Wall Street Journal: Republicans question AARP’s support of health care legislation

In a recent letter from three Republicans in the House Ways and Means Committee, AARP was questioned about the monetary benefits they would receive from supporting the new health care legislation in Congress at the expense of the seniors that belong to the organization.  AARP has insurance plans under United Health Group, Inc. involve about 3.6 million people.  Recent legislation backed by democrats in Congress has proposed spending on traditional medicare be cut, which some critics of AARP argue gives this organization more profits because these individuals will be buying up additional plans no longer covered by medicare.  Sixty percent of AARP’s profits are from licensing deals with organizations like United Health Group, Inc., which makes this argument quite plausible.   AARP has denied these claims saying that they do not endorse any specific legislation in Congress at this time.  This, however, does not change the fact that democrats are utilizing their support.

Link: Republicans Target AARP’s Ties to Health-Insurance Industry