National Human Resources Organization discusses Obamacare
The national human resources organization, Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM) has been releasing summaries called “Federal Legislative Action Alerts” to communicate the impact of Obamacare on employers.
Employers Penalties, which could have the negative impact of less revenue to job growth or even, lead to job cuts.
- Employers with 50 or more employees must offer coverage
- Penalties will be assessed if ONE employees receives a subsidy to purchase coverage.
- Penalties will be imposed if coverage offered is deemed “unaffordable”
One area that is very concerning personally and seems counter productive to controlling health care costs while promoting preventative care is the limitations on HSAs (Health Spending Accounts) and their sister plans that fall under FSAs, Flexible Spending Accounts.
These are the plans that allow you to set aside an amount from each check to fund an account that can and must be used by year end, to pay for health care costs.
The HSA amount set aside is tax deductible from your gross salary and provides an incentive to take responsibility of your personal health care.
From SHRM:
- FSA, HSAs capped at $2,500
- Over-the-counter medicines only qualify for reimbursement with a doctor’s prescription
While there were efforts to expand the plans to increase the dollar amount, this bill reverts to a limiting cap. Also, many medications to true minor problems are now available over the counter.
For example, allergy medicines are currently covered, but now I’d have to go to the doctor, get a script and file a reimbursement claim with the carrier. Currently, I used the HSA “credit card” with my money I’ve set aside and buy the medicine when I need it.
There is notes of the 2014 requirement to purchase health coverage or begin paying fees and the “excise” tax on “plans that exceed a certain cost” – i.e. Cadillac plans.
So, first hand communications from the national organization of human resources confirming with most opposition stated: this bill is full of taxation and limitations.
Yes, there is mention of prohibiting pre-existing conditions, but I again ask – at what cost? Isn’t that what Medicaid should be used for?
Whether the plans effects you directly or through your employers, the Obamacare bill achieved its purpose – change the landscape of health care forever.
Thanks to Ruth for sending with this data.
http://www.shrm.org/Pages/default.aspx
