Thursday, June 28, 2012

Supreme Court upholds Affordable Care Act; Brethren Insurance Services remains compliant.

Today, June 28, the US Supreme Court ruled that the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act--legislation passed in 2010 that dramatically transforms the nation’s health care system--may stand with few modifications. The bill’s controversial mandate that requires all Americans to carry health insurance was ruled constitutional under Congress’ right to levy taxes.

How does this decision affect Church of the Brethren Insurance Services members? Thursday’s Supreme Court ruling will have no impact on plan rates or coverage offered by Brethren Insurance Services, which is part of Brethren Benefit Trust (BBT). All rates and coverage for the current plan year will remain unchanged.

Brethren Insurance Services has worked to stay in compliance with provisions of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act as they have gone into effect. Sections of the health care overhaul that are already part of Brethren Insurance Services’ plans include restrictions against pre-existing condition exclusions, restrictions against lifetime coverage limits, the extension of benefits coverage to dependents up to age 26, and more.

As a member of the Church Benefits Association, BBT has collaborated with other faith-based benefits providers to interpret and incorporate the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act into its insurance plans. BBT will continue to comply with this health care legislation, as well as all other pertinent laws and regulations, and inform its members about any changes that may occur.

-- Brian Solem is publications coordinator for Brethren Benefit Trust.

Source:6/28/2012 Newsline

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