It's Not Discrimination

Today must be the whiner day. Or perhaps a full moon. 

Or both.

More than 300 patient advocacy groups recently wrote Health and Human Services Secretary Sylvia Mathews Burwell to complain about some insurer tactics that "are highly discriminatory against patients with chronic health conditions and may ... violate the (law's) nondiscrimination provisions."

Yahoo News

Heads up.

If you are offered coverage there is no discrimination.

The advocates also say they are disappointed by how difficult it's proved for consumers to get a full picture of plans sold on the new insurance exchanges. Digging is often required to learn crucial details such as drugs covered, exact copayments and which doctors and hospitals are in the network.

Uh, the information is there. Qualified, experienced agents with years of health insurance can answer your questions.

But if you insist on working with a navigator or community organizer that is more comfortable asking if you want fries with that order, then you can expect misinformation.

Much of the concern is about coverage for prescription drugs. Also worrisome are the narrow networks of hospitals and doctors that insurers are using to keep premiums down. Healthy people generally shop for lower premiums, while people with health problems look for access to specialists and the best hospitals.

If you want more comprehensive coverage you must be prepared to pay more for your coverage.

You don't get a Mercedes for the price of a Pinto.

"Insurance companies are basically singling out certain conditions by placing some medications on high-cost tiers," said Hill. That "is pretty blatant discrimination in my mind."

No, it isn't discrimination.

It is a sound business practice.

Here. Look up the definition of discrimination. Let me help.

Do you complain at the grocery store because lobster costs more than tilapia?

If you want better information, deal with a professional.

If you want more comprehensive coverage, pay a higher premium.

Pretty simple.