Governor’s State of the State Address this Wednesday

This Wednesday, January 28th, Governor Strickland will give his State of the State Address.  Much of his speech will focus on his priorities, including a new funding formula for education.  He may also mention priorities in the health care area like SCHIP, Medicaid and possibly other ways to reduce the number of uninsured. It is anticipated that the Governor’s budget will be unveiled on February 2nd.

 

ODI Issues Bulletin Relating to Changes in Provider Networks

Last week, the Ohio Department of Insurance (ODI) issued Bulletin 2009-01 relating to the reporting of changes in health plan provider networks by sickness and accident insurers and health insuring corporations (HICs).  The Bulletin does not apply to HICs that cover recipients of assistance under Medicaid and specialty or supplemental care services-only providers.

 

OSHIP Busy during Medicare Annual Enrollment

ODI has announced that their Ohio Senior Health Insurance Information Program (OSHIP) received 13,260 telephone calls and counseled 14,566 Medicare beneficiaries during the annual Medicare enrollment period which ran from November 15 - December 15.  OSHIP is now focused on inquiries concerning the Medicare Advantage open enrollment period that ends on March 31.

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