Here are five thoughts:
1. Prior to the ACA, consumers could choose extensive plans at a higher price, or a basic plan at a lower price. They could also select plans with a higher premium and a lower deductible or vice versa.
2. The ACA has required all plans be “qualified” health plans, leading to the standardization of plans.
3. With the ACA in place, state regulators and U.S. Department of Health & Human Services regulate premiums, which gives health insurance companies very little ability to compete on price.
4. Consumers must buy all-inclusive plans, which feature higher premiums and high deductibles.
5. Competition among insurers and consumer choice does not influence the type of services plans offer under the ACA.
More articles on coding & billing:
Anthem-Cigna merger proposal brings out the skeptics — 5 takeaways
CMS, CDC release new ICD-10 codes, early: 4 insights
NY legislation would allow physician collective bargaining: 5 things to know
