July 1, 2010 

Perlmutter Announces New Consumer Health Reforms Available

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Ed Perlmutter announced two new health insurance resources available to consumers. 

First, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services launched an innovative new on-line tool, HealthCare.gov, to connect consumers with new information and resources to help them access quality, affordable health care coverage. 

Additionally, HHS announced the establishment of a new pre-existing condition insurance plan (PCIP) to offer coverage to uninsured Americans who have been unable to obtain health coverage because of a pre-existing condition. Colorado is one of nearly 30 states that will operate its own temporary pre-existing condition insurance pool.  Governor Ritter will announce more details of this program on Tuesday, July 6

Called for by the Affordable Care Act, HealthCare.gov is the first website to provide consumers with both public and private health coverage options tailored specifically for their needs in a single, easy-to-use tool. 

“Information is power, and this site puts power back into Coloradans’ hands,” said Perlmutter.  “Whether you’re a new college graduate, a family who recently lost insurance, or someone with a pre-existing condition – this site has a list of insurance options available for you.  I urge all Coloradans to use this resource and learn how the health reform law can help you.”

The core of the new HealthCare.gov website is a powerful insurance options finder.  After consumers input a few pieces of background information – such as state, age range, and current insurance status – the tool will generate a list of both private and public health insurance options.  The tool will list details of insurance plans offered in that state, and include contact information for each company so consumers can contact the companies that best fit their needs.  Beginning in October, the tool will also include pricing information, further simplifying health insurance shopping.

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