With many changes in the health industry, it wouldn’t be a surprise if something slipped through the cracks. From technological advances to the changing of the Affordable Care Act, healthcare changes have been prevalent in the news for 2017.
ACA Changes
Probably the biggest news of the 2017 health market was the attempted appeal of the Affordable Care Act. President Trump tried to pass an edited version of the ACA, called the Better Care Reconciliation Act. Since the government did not ratify any of the proposed changes, it seemed like the ACA was staying. President Trump has since then made attempts to repeal and change many parts of the ACA. It wouldn’t be a surprise if sometime next year ACA will be completely different from this year.
Online and Telephonic Enrollment
The ability to purchase healthcare is not limited to the agent home visit anymore. This year in 2017 we have seen strides in more online interaction and telesales enrollments. The government has made it easier to find health plans from multiple resources, allowing people to go out on their own and actually purchase their healthcare. From online quotes to how-to videos, enrollment has become much easier. However, you should get with an experienced agent since they are skilled and knowledgeable about different plans; they can help you make the best decision possible. If it’s more convenient, you can always do a telephone enrollment, which allows you to connect with an experienced agent right over the phone.
Health Tracking
Technology advances have given us the ability to track our health more precisely, which helps us stay healthy. From Fitbits to the apple watch, technology allows us to manage certain activities, whether it’s your breathing, heart rate, or caloric intake. We are able to identify problems before they happen, and with these technological advances, we will be able to sustain a healthier, longer life.
Better Benefits
Companies have been offering more and more benefits to its customers. From free trips to and from the doctors to a free gym membership and more, benefits keep getting better as health insurers fight for your loyalty. One company offers home visits for free check-ups! If you want to know more about your benefits, ask your health insurer for a summary of benefits and coverage.
So with 2017’s major changes, we can only hope for an even more successful 2018.