National Health Council Applauds New Regulations
The National Health Council (NHC) released the following statement in support of today’s White House announcement of new federal regulations to strengthen patients’ rights to appeal health insurance denials. The following statement is from Myrl Weinberg, President of the NHC:
People with chronic conditions make up the largest segment of users of health care in this country. They require care and treatment that will allow them to live the healthiest, most productive lives possible. It is essential that they be able to obtain and retain coverage and care that meet their individual health care needs.
The steps taken today by the Obama Administration will provide patients with an understandable, predictable internal and external appeals process. It’s the right thing to do. It’s a fair solution for patients — particularly those living with chronic diseases and disabilities.
We are also pleased that $30 million has been allocated for strengthening state-based consumer assistance offices. This is a critical step to improving patient awareness of their rights.
The regulations can be viewed at http://www.ofr.gov/OFRUpload/OFRData/2010-18043_PI.pdf.