Florida Office of Insurance Regulation Rule Development: Small Group Health Insurance Application Forms
Oct 26, 2009
A Florida Office of Insurance Regulation Rule Development Workshop was held on October 20, 2009 to discuss revisions to small group health insurance regulations, specifically the application process as specified by Rule 69O-149.041: Marketing Communication Material and Marketing Guidelines.
Public testimony given during the Workshop clearly indicated that health insurance agents dislike the proposed Rule and carriers support it.
Paramount among the reasons cited by agents for not supporting the proposed Rule was the requirement that the application questionnaire must be completed and signed by each eligible employee. Agents’ concern centered around both security risks and the private nature of the information. Those who testified against the proposed Rule said that employees should not be forced to divulge such personal information, regardless of whether they are going to be part of the policy or not.
Further, the agents expect that these forms may not be properly completed by the employees and thus will cause delays in receiving quotes. This time delay may make it more difficult for employers to comparison shop for the best rates.
Carrier representatives who testified in support of the proposed Rule argued that, because the form’s design will help to eliminate gaps and inconsistencies in medical history data, it will help to more accurately set consistent rates and thereby eliminate premium spikes. Carriers believe that one universal form, rather than multiple forms, will make employer comparison shopping easier.
The record will remain open to receive additional comments on the proposed Rule until November 10, 2009
To view the meeting notice and proposed Rule text, click here.
Should you have any questions or comments, please contact Colodny Fass.
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