government
HHS announces $30 million to assist consumers with health insurance
NEWS IN BRIEF — Posted Nov. 1, 2010
The latest round of grants made available through the national health reform law will provide $30 million to help states help consumers enroll in health coverage, track consumer complaints and educate consumers about their rights under the law, according to the Dept. of Health and Human Services.
With its $3.4 million share, California plans to develop and promote a website and toll-free number to answer consumers' questions about health care coverage. In addition, the state intends to partner with consumer organizations for a media campaign that will educate consumers about their rights and responsibilities. Among other things, California plans to help consumers file complaints about and appeals of insurers' decisions. The state will review the programs' effectiveness and adjust them as necessary.
Details about how other states are using the Consumer Assistance Program grants are available online (link).
Note: This item originally appeared at http://www.ama-assn.org/amednews/2010/11/01/gvbf1101.htm.