A new CMS analysis suggests that its new competitive bidding program for Medicare DME suppliers might save $1 billion in 2009 alone. Right now, CMS pays for DME under a listed price, but under the program, DME companies will be required to submit bids, allowing CMS to choose based on [...]

Right now, when consumers change health plans, federal law allows the new plan to refuse coverage of pre-existing conditions for 12 months. However, things may end up being different if a new bill limiting such exclusions passes. In addition to cutting the 12 month pre-existing coverage exclusion to three months, [...]

The Supreme Court on Monday let stand a federal policy that allows employers to reduce their health insurance expenses for retired workers once they turn 65 and qualify for Medicare.[...]

Kristen Trusko serves as Practice Lead with BearingPoint's Banking Insurance Group If universal coverage mandates that employers provide health insurance or that people secure it themselves, it is highly likely that the majority will choose the lowest cost option, or[...]

Insurance companies are taking a harder look at advanced medical scans like CT scans, citing spiraling costs and safety concerns. And some doctors agree there's emerging evidence that these scans are being over-prescribed.[...]

Washington Post "Federal Diary" columnist Stephen Barr on Thursday examined a March 11 "call letter" from the Office of Personnel Management to health insurers that outlines the agency's goals for 2009.[...]