News For: Man Group Blue health InsuranceHealth insurance coverage of mental illnesses gets push Congress on Tuesday moved close to final approval of a bill that would require group health insurance plans to provide more generous coverage for treatment of mental illnesses, comparable to what they already provide for physical illnesses. The Senate approved the legislation as part of a tax bill promoting the use of alternative fuels, including wind and solar power. The bill, passed by a vote ... Health Insurance Costs Grow More Gradually in 2008 WASHINGTON - Health insurance premiums rose a modest 5 percent this year for coverage that's getting skimpier, researchers say.The 5 percent incr.... Universal Health Care Supporters Rally ELMIRA -- Advocates for universal health care are asking New York lawmakers in Washington, "Whose side are you on?" The group Citizen Action of New York held a rally in front of the Excellus Blue Cross-Blue Shield office in Elmira Wednesday. Pay lags costs for health coverage The cost of health insurance premiums rose 5.3 times as fast as the median wage in North Carolina over the last eight years, according to a report released Wednesday by Families USA, a national advocacy group. Mental health groups make final push for parity Many people battling addiction or suffering from mental health problems could get better health insurance coverage under legislation that has widespread, bipartisan support but still faces some hurdles before getting to President Bush for his signature. The number: 63#x25 Government-guaranteed health insurance Nearly two-thirds of Americans 63% favor a government guarantee of universal health insurance, even if it means raising taxes; 34% are opposed. Democrats continue to be the most supportive of government-guaranteed health insurance ��� 79% of Democrats, including 85% of liberal Democrats, favor it. Activists Stage Healthcare Rally in Elmira The group cited a report which shows health insurance companies raked in record profits in 2007, while your premiums continue rising. They're demanding answers. Michele Swenson: Like On Wall Street, Current Health Care Policy Privatizes Profit And Socializes Risk The excesses of the health insurance industry resemble those of Wall Street and the subprime housing market, typified by privatized profits for insurers and socialized risk for taxpayers and consumers. Health insurance premiums grow a modest 5 percent, analysts say sharper increases to come WASHINGTON - Health insurance premiums rose a modest 5 percent this year for coverage that's getting skimpier, researchers say. The 5 percent increase was comparable to last year's uptick. Health Insurance Costs Climb Again Kaiser study: Health insurance premiums and deductibles are up again this year. 24% of U.S. families say paying for health care is a "serious problem." |

