AHIP Statement on Coverage for Children
Washington, D.C. – America’s Health Insurance Plans (AHIP) President and CEO Karen Ignagni today released the following statement on the announcement by the Department of Health and Human Services to clarify that health plans may use a structured open enrollment period implementing health reform’s provision eliminating pre-existing condition exclusions for children under age 19:
“Today’s announcement will help ensure millions of children have access to affordable health care coverage. For years, structured enrollment periods have been used in the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program, Medicare, and in employer based coverage to minimize disruption for families, seniors, and small businesses. Health plans are committed to working with federal and state officials to ensure consumers are aware of all of their coverage options, including how and when they are able to sign up for coverage.”
Health plans will engage in a multi-faceted consumer education effort by posting information on their web sites, coordinating with agents and brokers to educate consumers, and reaching out to insurance commissioners and community-based organizations that focus on children’s interests.
