UnitedHealthcare-Affiliated Insurers Ordered to Pay $165 Million for Misleading Consumers Historic Ruling Against Deceptive Sales Practices A Massachusetts Superior Court has ordered HealthMarkets Inc. and its subsidiaries, The Chesapeake Life Insurance Company and HealthMarkets Insurance Agency, to pay $165 million for engaging in what the court described as “egregious” and widespread deceptive practices. These companies, owned by UnitedHealth Group, have been found guilty of misleading thousands of Massachusetts consumers into purchasing supplemental health insurance policies they did not need or fully understand they were buying. This judgment—comprising $50 million in…
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How Medical Debt is Devastating Millions of Insured Americans and What You Can Do About It
Medical debt is a pervasive issue in the United States, affecting millions of Americans each year. Despite having health insurance, many people still find themselves facing unexpected medical bills that can lead to significant financial stress. According to a recent survey by the Commonwealth Fund, nearly half of insured working-age Americans received a medical bill or charge that should have been covered by their insurance. This article aims to shed light on the realities of medical debt, highlight key statistics, share personal stories, and offer practical advice for those grappling…
Read MoreNew supplemental insurance law passed in Massachusetts
Governor Patrick signs supplemental insurance legislation into law A new law that eliminates the cap on insurance payments for non-medical hospital expenses has gone into effect in Massachusetts. Governor Deval Patrick has signed a bill that would remove the payment cap, which had been placed on supplemental health insurance policies that are meant to provide aid for non-medical expenses. Massachusetts had been the only state in the country that had placed payment limits on such coverage. Law has removed the cap placed on insurance payments for non-medical hospital visitis The…
Read MoreDisability Insurance – A Dying Breed
When you think of disability insurance, you may automatically think about the benefits some receive through the Social Security program. This is run through the government. Everyone pays in, and someone who becomes disabled can then receive money each month. This program has saved many families from financial ruin, but the amount you can receive each month is not a lot. Families need more protection. Did you know there are other policies you can buy on your own in the event you are in a terrible accident or if you…
Read MoreMind the Gap: Things to Know Before Picking the Best Medicare Supplement Plan
Whether you have just turned 65, are about to turn 65, or are looking after a loved one who already has, keeping abreast of Medicare policy changes and picking the best Medicare supplement plan can seem like a daunting task. While the basic Medicare supplement plans (Plans A – N) are standardized at the federal government level, there are still many variations and nuances that occur at the state level. For example, some states may charge different rates for males than they do for females; some states won’t ask questions…
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