NAIC Approves Resolution Calling for MLR Changes
The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) has passed a resolution (26-20-5) to change health care reform laws related to Medical Loss Ratio (MLR). The NAIC recommends that the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and Congress work to ensure that the role of professional health insurance agents remains a strong part of the health care process. The NAIC resolution strongly supports the need for agents to serve as consumer advocates in the process of securing health care coverage.
The resolution was heavily debated and passed over objections from many commissioners. The resolution recommends exempting insurance agents’ commissions from the MLR. It also suggests that HHS should take action to preserve agent participation in the health care process, even if such actions include making immediate changes to the implementation and enforcement of the MLR.
This debate has been in process for more than a year now, and BenefitMall has actively supported efforts to persuade the NAIC of the crucial role the broker/agent community play in the health care process. With lobbyists on the ground in several of our local markets, BenefitMall has seized opportunities to attend, participate and testify in several meetings associated with the NAIC’s review of the MLR. With our robust database of information and broad agent customer base, BenefitMall has provided insight through commission data and broker feedback as this debate has unfolded.
This is a huge step in the right direction for the broker/agent community. After a 90-minute debate, this vote took agents one step closer to overcoming the many obstacles of health care reform. Together, we will now wait to see HHS’ response to these recommendations. BenefitMall has and will continue play an active role in supporting brokers and their role by lobbying, testifying and calling on officials to educate them about the value broker advisors bring to the health care process.
Click here to view a NAHU press release that further explains the NAIC's resolution.
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The views expressed in this Legislative Alert do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or opinions of BenefitMall. This update is provided for informational purposes. Please consult with a licensed accountant or attorney regarding any legal and tax matters discussed herein.