HMO Agency Launches Consumer Website

Sacramento Business Journal by Kathy Robertson –

June 7, 2013:

California’s state HMO regulator has launched a new rate review website for consumers.

The website provides information about the Department of Managed Health Care’s rate review process, useful terms, questions and answers — and resources related to rate review and health care costs.

Health plans are required to file rate information with the agency to justify proposed premium rates in the individual and small employer markets. State law requires this information to be filed at least 60 days before a rate change goes into effect.

Under current law, state regulators do not have authority to approve or deny rate changes — but they can make public hay with the numbers and put pressure on plans to cut them.

DMHC regulates health maintenance organization plans and some preferred provider organization plans.

The California Department of Insurance also posts proposed rates. The agency regulates preferred provider organization plans and traditional health insurance.

Source: John & Rusty Report via Choice Admin