News For: Pacfic health InsuranceHealth 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. New Bedford area lags in health insurance enrollments BOSTON ��� SouthCoast is seeing some gains under Massachusetts' new health insurance mandate, but the poorest parts of the region are lagging behind the state average, according to health care officials. Workers pay more for less health care coverage WASHINGTON ��� Premiums for job-based health insurance are up 5 percent in 2008 and have more than doubled since 1999, a growth rate that far outpaces inflation and the increase in workers' wages over the same period, according to an annual survey of employers. Health-Care Costs for U.S. Employers Rise 5 Percent, Study Says Sept. 24 -- Employer-sponsored health insurance for a family cost an average of $12,680 this year, a 5 percent increase from 2007, a survey of U.S. businesses found. Nigeria: Nigerians Should Expect Universal Health Insurance Coverage by 2015, Says NHIS Boss If there is anything the Executive Secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme NHIS, Mr. Waziri Dogo Muhammad is sure of, it is that the Scheme would not follow foot steps of other failed government projects. Protesters target health care Providers of medical insurance are more concerned about dollars than people, claims a coalition of labor and other organizations that wants the federal government to take a bigger role in health care financing. Farm, Ranch Families Struggle With Rising Health Care Costs WASHINGTON ��� America���s farm and ranch families are paying top dollar for health insurance that inadequately covers their needs and causes them significant financial risk, according to a report released today from The Access Project and sponsored by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. Mental health groups make final push for parity Wed, Sep 24, 2008 2:12 p.m. 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. Rising health insurance costs outpace income: report WASHINGTON Wisconsin workers who have trimmed family budgets to pay health insurance premiums already know the costs have risen, but they may be shocked to learn by how much. Grimes proposes insurance plan HELENA - Republican state auditor candidate Duane Grimes has proposed a five-point plan he says will control "skyrocketing health insurance costs" in Montana, including changes for the popular Insure Montana program for small businesses. |

