Ed Morrissey at Hot Air is pointing out that insurance companies have not jumped for joy at the new birth control, abortion, and sterilization mandate that Obama is forcing on them. They know that it’s not really revenue neutral, especially up front, when they have to fork over one hundred percent of the costs. The supposed savings by preventing pregnancies are theoretical. Consider also that the pill induces conditions in women which require more medical attention: metabolic disorders and thromboembolic events, among others. No insurance companies have indicated an expectation of savings from Obama’s mandate.
The Hill brings up the point that no insurance coverage is free. The final cost is always coming from the total benefits package offered to the employee. If health insurance costs more, then less salary is offered.
There is also the issue of self insured employers. Many Catholic institutions are self insured, and one of the reasons for this originally could have been to avoid taking part in larger insurance pools that covered services which are not in line with Catholic teaching. Another reason would be cost containment.
THe HHS is is overturning doctrines of more than one Religion with this mandate. It might take a bit of time for the full response to come in.
Insurance companies are wondering what new unfunded mandates Obama will be imposing on them.
Tina Korbe has announced the St Patrick’s day/ March madness document dump from the White House. There is the advance notice of proposed rule making on preventative services policy quietly slipped out on Friday night when no one is looking. You should have heard about this in normal news venues so that you could have an opportunity to comment on the HHS rules expanding the mandate for coverage of birth control, abortion, and sterilizations.
Obama and Sebelius really don’t want to consider your opinions, and this is the reason for dribbling out the news when everyone is ready for a party weekend.
Yes the expanded mandate will cover Sandra Fluke’s apparent wild sex life at the university. Student insurance will be required, that offers free birth control, abortions and sterilizations. The Universities will of course have to cover the insurance and pass the costs to the students as part of tuition and fees.
Certain Preventative Services under the Health Care Act (extending birth control mandate)
Buying Sandra Fluke’s birth control.
Where you will go to Comment. Bring your rule number with you.
