Friday, March 22, 2013

There Are Many Advantages Associated With Group Health Benefits In Orlando

By Jill Faulkner


Group health benefits in Orlando offer numerous options to employees and their dependents. Coverage of this type is usually referred to as employer group health plans, the latter which are typically made available to full-time employees. Coverage is also generally offered to the employee's family if he or she so desires. Companies that offer coverage of this type must be in compliance with all laws, both federal and state, regarding such insurance. An example of this is the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act, commonly abbreviated as COBRA.

The Department of Labor regards such insurance as a type of benefit plan for workers that is offered and maintained by a union or business. It provides employees and their dependents with specific coverage that is paid for upfront by the insurance company or paid by the policyholder who is later reimbursed. Each plan has its own eligibility requirements; however, in most instances those who have worked for a particular business for certain length of time, the latter of which is established by the business owner, can typically apply for benefits.

To participate in plans of this kind, employers are typically required to offer proof that a minimum number of individuals are employed at their firm. In most instances, this number is fifty, although certain insurance agencies will offer coverage of this type to groups of forty individuals or even less.

There are laws and regulations that govern this type of insurance, such as the Employee Retirement Income Security Act. The latter mandates that the administrator of the plan must offer information to employees about the details of the coverage and eligibility requirements. Fiduciary guidelines must be adhered to by any company offering insurance of this type, and participants have the right to sue the administrator of the plan if these duties are breached.

There are several laws currently in effect with regard to benefit termination. To amend or terminate insurance coverage, the policyholder's employer must send written notice to the beneficiary of the plan. The appropriate party must execute this correspondence, which is usually the plan's administrator. The terminology used to communicate such facts must be concise and clear.

Companies that provide health coverage must also adhere to COBRA regulations, as previously mentioned. COBRA allows workers to keep their policy current even after the termination of their employment for up to 18 months. Although the coverage remains the same, the policyholder must pay for the insurance, and the employer is no longer responsible for any part of the bill.

Health insurance offers many benefits to families and individuals. For example, many plans include emergency care, prescription medications, and doctor visits. Under some programs, employees also qualify for dental and vision care.

When considering participating in group health benefits in Orlando, it is essential for individuals to carefully read the fine print of their policies. If any part of the information is confusing, the applicant should request a toll-free number where an insurance company representative can be contacted. His or her human resources department may be of help as well. Ultimately, securing medical insurance is a wise course of action for almost anyone.




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