Value City counts down to closing Nov 16, 2008
Some had health insurance (although it was few)and this was their only source of income. What are these people suppose to do. (Park Hills Daily Journal, MO)
Children could lose access to low-cost health insurance Nov 16, 2008
A childrens health insurance program in which about 900 Kern County children enroll each month may stop taking on more kids because of state budget woes ... The community pays for it one way or another, said Jan Hefner, director of the Childrens Health Initiative of Kern County, a community partnership that seeks to expand childrens access to comprehensive health insurance. (Bakersfield Californian)
Artificial arm a true gift Nov 16, 2008
Parity laws call for equal coverage for prosthetics comparable to other essential medical care covered by health insurance ... "Everyone would agree we're talking about areas of genuine need," said Susan Pisano, vice president of communications for America's Health Insurance Plans, which represents more than 1,300 insurers providing health benefits to some 200 million Americans. (Florida Today)
Hardest battle lies ahead Nov 16, 2008
To make matters worse, when Americans lose their jobs, they typically lose their health insurance, too. Meanwhile, 3. (Fresno Bee -- Opinion)
ESCONDIDO: Disappointed voters march to repeal Prop. 8 Nov 16, 2008
" supporters shouted.Although no one can predict how long the courts will take to give a verdict, many North County residents have said they expect it to be a long judicial road. More Stories Tags: Advertisement 26 comment(s) heard enough wrote on Nov 15, 2008 7:36 PM:It went up for the vote, they got their answer, from the people, they don't like the answer, so BOO HOO, BOO HOO. GET OVER IT Oh well wrote on Nov 15, 2008 7:39 PM:You lost...give it up...should've been campaigning and... (North County Times)
Mass.: Gas tax hike option lingers Nov 16, 2008
The reforms outlined by Murray include replacing some police details at roadside construction cites with civilian flag men and requiring new Turnpike and MBTA retirees to pay health insurance contributions in line with other state workers. But the refusal by Patrick, Murray and others to dismiss a gas tax hike is giving hope to activists on both sides of the issue. (Yahoo News -- Taxes and the IRS)
N.D. Attorney General won't give opinion on Blunt payment Nov 16, 2008
The severance agreement required that Blunt be paid his salary and health insurance benefits from Dec. 7, 2007, through Aug. 31, 2008. WSI records show he was paid $122,393 in salary and $5,454 to maintain health coverage, for a total of $127,847. (Bismarck Tribune, ND)
Schweitzer proposes 2.5 percent spending cut Nov 16, 2008
Schweitzer's budget sets aside 20 million for each of the next two years to implement the initiative approved by voters earlier this month to expand the Children's Health Insurance Plan to cover more uninsured children. His budget would boost K-12 school funding by more than 88 million over the next two years, which would amount to a 3 percent increase each year on the current base. (Missoulian, MT)
NPP lies win floating votes to NDC Nov 16, 2008
"What the NDC is saying is that the people are witnesses to the work that the we did during our tenure of office that is why we insist the comparison theory is be a recipe for mediocrity." He said the NDC would implement the universal health insurance scheme and all premium holders would pay once in their life time. Mr Mahama appealed to the people to vote for Mr Kojo Adu-Asare, the party's parliamentary candidate for Adenta and for Professor John Atta Mills. (Ghana Web, Ghana)
Retain the NPP in power for continuity - Aspirant MP Nov 16, 2008
Dr Opoku-Prempeh enumerated the NPP programmes such as the Metro-Mass Transport programme, the School Feeding Programme, and the National Health Insurance Scheme and said they had reduced the burden on Ghanaians. Commenting on NPP campaign, he noted that it had gathered momentum and that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) would "crush under the weight of the great elephant". (Ghana Web, Ghana)
Shaking down a gas price follower Nov 16, 2008
Health insurance for our company employees was canceled. We are still trying to recover from these debts and get out from delinquent notices. (Sierra Vista Herald, AZ)
Above-average women are farmers, too Nov 16, 2008
Someone typically has to work off the farm to get affordable health insurance and make ends meet, Johnson said. Boehlje said she also thinks many women don t go into farming because it s a very physical job. (Mason City Globe-Gazette, IO)
‘We want to stop working and move south' Nov 16, 2008
There are distinctive risks in retiring to another country: The costs of replacing Canadian provincial health insurance will climb as Richard and Wendy get older, exchange-rate variation will add uncertainty to cost-of-living projections and they will have to ensure that they do not get trapped in foreign tax systems. Most countries in the region tax only incomes from domestic employment or investment, but if Richard and Wendy keep their money outside of their country of residence and do not... (Globe and Mail -- Business)
Report blasts public contract secrecy Nov 16, 2008
The contract also guaranteed lifetime health insurance for teachers who retire after 10 years of service with the district. But when the contract was signed, the long-term cost of that benefit still was not known, district business official Maureen Albanese said at the time. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Alliance for Patient Access Applauds AMA's Heath Insurer Code of Conduct Nov 15, 2008
Nov. 14 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Alliance for Patient Access (AfPA) today applauded the American Medical Association's newly adopted Insurer Code of Conduct and encouraged physicians to join them in encouraging health insurance plans' adoption and compliance ... "From unwarranted rescissions and denials of coverage for prescribed medications and treatments, the actions of health insurance companies seemingly are more focused on improving the bottom line instead of improving patient care.".... (PR Newswire)
Two 21-year-old Palo Alto men arrested after Terman burglary Nov 15, 2008
I am broke, older, and jobless with no health insurance. I have chronic pain from an accident, and I share a house with many others to make my rent. (Palo Alto Online, CA)
Barona Valley Ranch near San Diego Nov 15, 2008
Many of the tribes spend their profits on their members, providing attractive homes, building schools and community centers, surfacing roads, installing water reclamation plants and paying for health insurance and college scholarships. But San Diego s most successful casinos also give away millions of dollars to nearby communities, not just because their legal compacts compel charitable donations (which they do), but because they re good neighbors. (Atlanta Journal-Constitution -- Travel)
Boehner to Face GOP Leadership Challenge... Nov 15, 2008
"At the end of eight years we have seen out of control spending, more big government, corruption even the Democrats couldnt match, poking their nose into matters that should be resolved on a state level, handing billions of tax payer dollars over to the Pharmaceutical Ind. by not negotiating Medicare drugs, wanting to tax our income we pay for health insurance, pandering to the extreme right religious groups for more laws and I could go on and on. You cant legislate morality! Does that... (The Drudge Report)
Mandate sets priorities for Obama's to-do list Nov 15, 2008
Children s health insurance. Bush vetoed twice a measure that would reauthorize the federal and state program aimed at providing government-subsidized health insurance for the children of working-class families who aren t covered on the job ... Quickly acting to reauthorize the State Children s Health Insurance Program and allowing for states to experiment with expanding their plans should be one of the highest priorities for Congress. (Atlanta Journal-Constitution -- Opinion)
Do we have too much faith in Obama? Nov 15, 2008
" The economic landscape faced by the new administration is both uncertain and bleak. It is uncertain because no one at this point knows the depths of the problems facing our financial system and what additional steps will be required to correct those problems. It is bleak because once we restore the ability of banks, insurance companies and other financial institutions to function normally, we will still be facing a free fall in household consumption as wages remain stagnant, unemployment... (Los Angeles Times)
Freedom over equality best choice Nov 15, 2008
Phil wrote on Nov 9, 2008 7:38 PM:" So we are going to bash unions and tell how they have ruined America and the companies that have them? Hilarious and pathetic all in one. Without unions we would still be a third world nation in many respects. Let's put it this way, if the "market" was so great for the workers why was there even a need for unions to be formed? Ever think of that? Of course not. How ignorant.As far as the car companies - ask them this - would they rather get rid of the unions... (Waterloo-Cedar Falls Courier)
3 successful Republicans caution against a move to the right Nov 15, 2008
"What people were listening for in this election is, what are you going to do about my pocketbook, my health insurance, my electric bill," said Alexander, a former governor and presidential candidate who is seeking to return as the No. 3 Republican in the Senate. "We need to step back and fundamentally change the way we talk about issues and be focused more on what we can do to help the country rather than what we can do to help the Republican Party.". (International Herald Tribune)
How best to rescue the economy Nov 15, 2008
Editor - House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and the Democrats want to bail out the auto industry, including meeting a UAW request for $25 billion to support the union retirees' lavish health insurance plan ... We have over 50 million Americans with no health insurance and Pelosi wants to spend at least $25 billion for union retirees, many of whom already get Medicare ... For starters, an estimated 25 percent of the 47 million Americans without health insurance are already eligible for public insurance... (San Francisco Chronicle -- Opinion)
• Open enrollment for Medicare begins Nov 15, 2008
" even if they are happy with them.Open enrollment for Medicare prescription drugs programs, known as Medicare Part D, starts today and runs through Dec. 31.The federal plan is subsidized with tax dollars, but administered by private insurance companies with various plans that seniors 65 and older can choose.Seniors may see changes in 2009 to the plans that have served them well in 2008, so they should still look at their options for next year, officials said."It's very important that they check... (Burley South Idaho Press, ID)
CoverKids to add dental coverage Nov 15, 2008
CoverKids is Tennessee's health insurance program for uninsured children. The dental program will give members up to two oral exams and cleanings annually with no copay. (Memphis Business Journal, TN)
Board delights in new flood plain maps Nov 15, 2008
Additionally, full-time employees receive such traditional fringe benefits as health insurance, retirement, paid holidays and sick leave and eight employees will collect a 400 Christmas bonus. Incidentally, the per diem for the village president and trustees remains at 35. (Menomonie Dunn County News, WI)
Experts: Pill-splitting can save you money Nov 15, 2008
This tip is so good, it can potentially save hundreds of dollars on the price of pills for people with and without health insurance. Michelle Grote was shocked to learn her $250 bill for prescriptions could easily be lower. (KHOU.com, TX)
Busted Illegals Highlight a Bigger Problem Nov 15, 2008
That allows employers to pay less in health insurance and workman's comp-- and thus underbid jobs. "It creates a super, unfair advantage," Hall said. (WCAX.com, VT)
Access Plans USA, Inc. Announces Results for Third Quarter 2008: Revenue Up 16 Percent; Significant Reduction in Continuing Operations Net Loss Nov 15, 2008
They include health insurance plans and non-insurance healthcare discount programs to help provide solutions for the millions of Americans who need access to affordable healthcare. We are committed to assuring that our clients have access to the healthcare that they need at prices they can afford. (Primezone Releases)
Teacher pay increase vote next week Nov 15, 2008
We have real concerns with the health insurance [costs in town] and until we get that under control and are able to sustain the level of services everybody is expecting, it just isn t prudent to be giving raises that we can t show whether or not we can afford, she said. Smedile added that the Board of Selectmen understands and appreciates that the teachers and school staff also have bills and responsibilities, but said the town must address the aforementioned issues before going forward with... (North Andover Citizen, MA)
Try the Priest Nov 15, 2008
Those who refuse to comply with their sentence can be "dismissed from the clerical state," also known as being "defrocked." As a result, they lose their benefits provided by the church, which usually include housing, health insurance, and a small salary. (Canon law states that "provision must always be made so that [a priest] does not lack those things necessary for his decent support." If you're excommunicated, you can still get these perks, but not if you're defrocked. (Slate)
Gaylord teachers ratify 3-year pact Nov 15, 2008
By Michael Jones, HT Staff Writer Friday, November 14, 2008 2:46 PM EST GAYLORD -- After the Gaylord Education Association (GEA) vote Wednesday to ratify a new three-year contract, the Gaylord Community Schools (GCS) board met early Thursday and approved the contract including a change in health insurance providers resulting in 25-percent savings to the district ... Cheryl Wojtas said the move from Michigan Education Special Services Association (MESSA) health insurance to AmeraPlan saved the... (Gaylord Herald Times, MI)
Borcherding keynotes Bizwomen session Nov 15, 2008
We knew a position had to go away, but we also knew the woman in that role needed health insurance. She was 62 and needed a few months to get things set up. (Cincinnati Business Courier, OH)
School board selects interim superintendent finalist (16) Nov 15, 2008
Negotiating experience was of particular interest to the board because the district has been in protracted negotiations for a new contract with the its classified employees union since early this year and recently began talks with teachers about an increase in health insurance contributions. The Lebanon Education Association, the teachers' union, will begin negotiations with the district for a new three-year contract this spring. (Lebanon Express, OR)
Why Republicans suffered a wipeout Nov 15, 2008
Yes, they will start in 2010 when an Obama and Democrat backlash will occur because there is no way they can deliver on tax cuts for 95 percent of Americans or deliver health insurance for all or cut the budget and the deficit. They cant deliver tax increases in the depths of a recession, so that promise will disappear, also. (Nogales International, AZ)
Aflac Chief Amos Says He Won't Bid on AIG Units With Borrowing Costs High Nov 15, 2008
Columbus, Georgia-based Aflac, the world's largest seller of supplemental health insurance, previously expressed interest in purchasing AIG units in Japan. Amos is hoarding cash as investment losses deplete capital, and access to credit wanes across the industry amid the worst financial crisis in 75 years. (Bloomberg -- Japan)
Preparing a Presidential Farewell Nov 14, 2008
Issue date: 11/14/08 Section. APPresident George W. Bush speaks at the Manhattan Institute, addressing financial markets and the world economy Thursday, Nov. 13, at Federal Hall in New York. (Ohio State University -- The Lantern, OH)
American Indians discuss alternative Thanksgiving Nov 14, 2008
Issue date: 11/14/08 Section. Students and faculty gathered in the Dave Griner room of the Recreation and Physical Activity Center Thursday to dispel myths about the first Thanksgiving and discuss why some American Indians prefer alternatives to this celebration. (Ohio State University -- The Lantern, OH)
Band marches inside for annual fall concert Nov 14, 2008
Issue date: 11/14/08 Section. The Ohio State Marching Band will be celebrating Buckeye spirit off the field at their annual fall concert in Wexner Center's Mershon Auditorium at 3 p.m. Sunday. (Ohio State University -- The Lantern, OH)
Football: Top cornerbacks will be on display in Illinois Nov 14, 2008
Issue date: 11/14/08 Section. Kenny Greer/The Lantern Ohio State senior cornerback Malcolm Jenkins is not afraid to joke around and have fun. (Ohio State University -- The Lantern, OH)
Digital gold: Turning techno-junk into cash Nov 14, 2008
He needs quick cash to help cover his living expenses, including food and health insurance ... Health insurance is our biggest expense $917 or so for every two months so as I expand this (collection effort), my goal would be to help pay for the insurance. (MSNBC -- Politics)
Malone: Swampscott school budget future is apocalyptic Nov 14, 2008
5 percent, general municipal costs will rise 10 percent for health insurance, 8 percent for vocational school tuition, 9. 1 percent in retirement costs and an incredible 200 percent in unemployment insurance costs, mostly because of layoffs. (Swampscott Reporter, MA)
* Hoax NYT announces end of Iraq war Nov 14, 2008
The elaborate 14-page spoof, dated July 4, next year, had stories on a raft of other US liberal fantasies: Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice apologizes that the fuss about Iraqs weapons of mass destruction was invented and Americans are finally getting national health insurance. Its front-page motto read: All the news we hope to print X a play on the Times famous All the news thats fit to print. (Taipei Times, Taiwan)
Too broke to go out Nov 14, 2008
Nannies can make between 450 and 750 a week, and in some cases, parents cover the cost of health insurance, she said. "There are those upper-crust families," said Pitts. (Montana Standard, MT)
Your views: Debating results from Election Day Nov 14, 2008
They have sworn themselves into a cult, which has allegiance to corporations first, and 00004000 dont mind leaving children behind without health insurance. Reagan, Bush 1 and Bush 2 have proved that trickle down from corporations for our health care, our jobs and our families wealth does not happen. (Florida Today)
National Copper employees jam Legion Nov 14, 2008
Niles Michigan - The Niles Star. Will the Detroit Lions win a game this season. (Niles Star, MI)
Mass.: Gas tax hike option lingers Nov 14, 2008
The reforms outlined by Murray include replacing some police details at roadside construction cites with civilian flag men and requiring new Turnpike and MBTA retirees to pay health insurance contributions in line with other state workers. But the refusal by Patrick, Murray and others to dismiss a gas tax hike is giving hope to activists on both sides of the issue. (Yahoo News -- Taxes and the IRS)
> Best in Business I: Island Insurance Companies Nov 14, 2008
Island Insurance was named to the coveted Ward s 50 list from a pool of more than 3,000 property and casualty insurance companies and 850 life and health insurance companies nationwide. Island Insurance President John Schapperle, 59, credits the company s 185 employees and its long-time policyholders for contributing to the continued innovation and growth that has become central to the firm s success. (Pacific Business News, HI)
Editor's Mailbag (Nov. 13) (15) Nov 14, 2008
A little over a year ago my wife and I were doing OK. Our business wasn t making Bill Gates look in his rearview mirror, but it was adequate and with my wife s income from her state job and the exceptional health insurance package it provided, we were keeping up with everything. Thanks to my 35 years of smoking, I had developed emphysema, high blood pressure and cholesterol, and Type 2 diabetes, but by changing my lifestyle and diet, and taking my drugs regularly, I was feeling good and had... (Albany Democrat-Herald, OR)
MCSC trustees change insurer Nov 14, 2008
Members of the Medora School Corporation met Monday evening, approving a motion to change the provider of employees health insurance benefits. The board voted in favor of canceling the corporations current policy with Anthem, opting to join a new program offered through the Indiana State Teachers Association (ISTA). (Brownstown Jackson County Banner, IN)
Asiam defends against "political prostitution" Nov 14, 2008
Noting that fundamental to the above are the NPP flag-bearer's commitment to continue with President Kufuor's sound policies as the National Youth Employment Programme, National Health Insurance Scheme, Capitation Grant and School Feeding Programme, Ms Asiam said Nana Akufo-Addo's vision of transforming Ghana, in terms of modernised agriculture, structural transformation of Northern Ghana through the channeling of one billion US dollar to the Northern Development Fund and another one billion US... (Ghana Web, Ghana)
Wayos comatose URP Nov 14, 2008
He stated that the capitation grant, school feeding programme, and the National Health Insurance Scheme were some of the achievements of the NPP, and added that the ruling party has realistic programmes to develop the country. Alhaji Baba however dismissed allegations of inducement as reasons for their defection. (Ghana Web, Ghana)
PETA: Make Meat Eaters Pay Bigger Premiums Nov 14, 2008
PETA thinks health insurance should be more expensive for people who eat meat ... People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals called on Blue Cross Blue Shield of Vermont to raise health insurance premiums for people who eat meat and lower the premiums for vegetarians, Plattsburgh, Vt. (TheSanDiegoChannel.com, CA)
Napolitano seeks stimulus for public works Nov 14, 2008
Gov. Janet Napolitano told a congressional panel Thursday she wants to see second stimulus package focused on sending money to state and local governments and increasing federal funding for health insurance programs. Napolitano wants a stimulus to bankroll state and local public works projects to help the economy and offer more money for Medicaid programs. (Phoenix Business Journal, AZ)
Enrollment nears for Medicare prescription plans Nov 14, 2008
If you have retirement health insurance that covers prescription, watch closely for any changes in premiums or coverage. Resources* N.C. Senior Health Insurance Information ProgramPHONE: 800-443-9354ONLINE: * Durham Senior PHARM- Assist. (News & Observer)
Funding delays hobble shelters Nov 14, 2008
A program in Yancey County hasn't paid its electric bill for months and had to turn to the county commission to pay health insurance premiums for its staff. Many others, including a program in Chatham County, have burned through their emergency reserves while they wait for grant reimbursements. (News & Observer)
Town Board continues budget work Nov 14, 2008
Helen Grosso asked whether an actuarial study is a state requirement to project what retirement and health insurance benefits would cost in the future ... Grosso also questioned how many board members took the health insurance buy- out last year because it was raised from $500 to approximately $3,700 ... Coursen responded, "I think that it is critical that we pre-fund that liability. The first part of it is identifying that liability. I think it is around $3.5 million so I predict in the 2010... (Pawling News Chronicle, NY)
Council to interview auditor hopefuls Dec. 2 Nov 14, 2008
Mullaney pointed out that having the auditor be an independent contractor instead of a town employee will represent considerable savings in terms of health insurance and retirement benefits. The council s stated intention is to have the auditor in place by Jan. 1 at the latest. (Braintree Forum, MA)
More of this story» Nov 14, 2008
Will the Detroit Lions win a game this season. Note: This is not a scientific poll. (Dowagiac News, MI)
The Big Three Are a National Disgrace Nov 14, 2008
(Never mind that management for generations willingly entered into labor pacts, consciously trading salary increases for longer-term liabilities like guaranteeing health insurance for retirees ... Last year, the UAW and the auto companies set up a health care fund that, as the New York Times writes, would "shift a $100 billion burden off the companies' backs." Would the UAW simply give up on the health care benefits and tell hundreds of thousands of forty- and fiftysomething members to just go... (Slate)
Mayors, governors prod Congress for financial help Nov 14, 2008
Arizona Gov. Janet Napolitano said Thursday that increasing the federal Medicaid match is crucial at a time more people need health insurance as they lose jobs because of the economy. Her state added 13,000 to its Medicaid roles just in August. (San Diego Union-Tribune)
In tough economy, Ameren looks to keep customers happy but raise rates again Nov 13, 2008
Rotty wrote on Nov 12, 2008 12:50 AM:" Damn, I wish some competition would come in & knock these folk's blocks off, send them flying off their stage, & hang them from their golden arches.Someone needs to seriously kick some of the hineys of the ignoramuses who keep approving these idiots & let them do what they want to do, anytime they want.Tell me, is Ameren in cahoots with health insurance companies? ". Mama says wrote on Nov 12, 2008 4:19 AM:" We have a blackout not running a lot of... (Mattoon Journal-Gazette, IL)
March of Dimes: State gets D’ grade for high premature birth rate Nov 13, 2008
According to Debra Donovan, director of program services for the Montana March of Dimes Chapter, the chapter will ask the Montana Legislature to take action in the upcoming session by increasing access to health insurance for pregnant women and supporting smoking-cessation programs. The March of Dimes cites smoking during pregnancy and a lack of health insurance as two of the underlying reasons for premature births. (Helena Independent Record, MT)
Narrowing Obama's policy options to top priorities Nov 13, 2008
Instead, the Democrats in Congress may want to pass an expansion of the state child health insurance programme, which provides government health insurance for low income families, and was vetoed by President Bush. President-elect Obama may be able to present this as a down payment on full healthcare reform. (BBC News)
Poll Shows Baucus Individual Mandate To Buy Health Insurance Unpopular Nov 13, 2008
Nov. 12 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Consumer Watchdog countered Senator Max Baucus' (D-MT) contention that the mandatory purchase of health insurance was popular with Americans by pointing to a poll showing that voters overwhelmingly reject requiring proof of private health insurance when they are told they might have to pay some of the premium costs. Less than one in five voters (16%) support such a plan and nearly two-thirds (63%) were opposed when told insurers had no limit on how much they... (PR Newswire)