Health reform: where to find good info

There is so much talk about health reform, and what will happen in 2014.  I’m not sure how to figure out what’s what.  I cover my husband and children on my plan, and we have some prescriptions for allergies and ADD.  Otherwise, we’re pretty healthy.  Can you tell me a good source of info about health reform for someone like me – someone who just wants to keep her own health plan at work?

Looking Ahead

Dear Looking Ahead,

Great question!  The internet has millions of sites related to health reform, but there are just a few that are worth tracking.  I suggest the Kaiser Family Foundation’s Health Reform Source website.  It has a special section for Individuals and Employers that you might find useful.  It also has a subsidy calculator, which will help you anticipate whether you will be getting any help paying for your plan.

Another site is Healthcare.gov.   This site was created in 2010, as required by the reform law.  It has an insurance options finder listing the insurance plans and programs for every state in the country.  It also has FAQs, and basic information that will help you understand the changes coming.

Your employer will also give you some information.  They are required to notify you about any plan changes in advance.

I would also suggest choosing only one or two sites for your health reform information.  The two I have suggested are credible sources and not slanted politically one way or the other.  There will be a lot of clamor and dust about health reform as 2014 approaches with opponents foretelling doom and supporters painting a rosy picture.  Take the neutral info source and make your own judgments.

Linda Riddell

About Linda Riddell

A published author and health policy analyst with 25 years’ experience, Linda Riddell's goal is to alleviate the widespread ailment of not knowing what your health plan can do for you.