It has been some time since I last posted, and for that I apologize. I may have started this project a little early, as I had only then-recently been released from more than 2 months of hospitalization and in-patient rehabilitation for the removal of a brain tumor. I try very hard not to define myself by that occurrence, but by most measures, it was a big deal.
Being away from home for that long a period, and having to depend upon a very understanding and supportive spouse and son for most all things-pre-surgery, during surgery, and during rehabilitation (which is itself a major undertaking), does not do wonders for one's ego. It can wreak havoc with any home organization, finances, and otherwise, and it did so with us. One's life can be turned upside down, but the good news is that neat things may fall out of the pockets when that happens.
I am trying to make that happen, for my own sake and that of others, by "reinventing" myself from my former role as a lawyer, into a new role as a "helper", " an "explainer", and a "guide". Groundwork must be done for the reinvention, but many of the remaining former skills may be transferable, and I hope to get a "patent" for the reinvention soon. Please stay tuned.
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Insurance Regulation--He Got it Right for Now
Pres. Obama is about to roll out a proposal to address the regulation of some elements of insurance and of large financial institutions. Fortunately for all of us, the proposal will leave the regulation of most insurance largely to the States, where it historically has been and should remain. There will be an increased Federal presence with other financial products which, if left to their own devices, could have negative national economic effects. Although it looks like Mr. Obama's proposal may leave the door open to greater Federal insurance regulation down the road, we can hope he will learn more about insurance, and its regulation, during the rest of his term and leave it, and us, alone.
Overall, the States have done a very admirable job in regulating insurance. The exceptions have mainly been when States have tried to over-regulate (Florida??), and stable insurance companies cease to write new business because they cannot get approval for actuarially sound rates for the risks that they undertake. When the market then gets "hard", scams (fake insurance companies) often surface that are ill-capitalized, not designed to provide the protection they promise, and the consumer ultimately loses. Agents also lose, as in their desire to help customers obtain insurance, they fall victim to the scams.
Overall, the States have done a very admirable job in regulating insurance. The exceptions have mainly been when States have tried to over-regulate (Florida??), and stable insurance companies cease to write new business because they cannot get approval for actuarially sound rates for the risks that they undertake. When the market then gets "hard", scams (fake insurance companies) often surface that are ill-capitalized, not designed to provide the protection they promise, and the consumer ultimately loses. Agents also lose, as in their desire to help customers obtain insurance, they fall victim to the scams.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Health Insurance Changes--Some Effects on You
Florida Gov. Crist signed legislation that allows doctors who are not listed medical providers for a specific preferred provider organization (PPO) to still offer care and be paid directly by the PPO. The doctor would be paid at the PPO-scheduled rate for the procedure performed, and, in theory, could bill the patient for the difference between the doctor's standard fee and what was paid by the PPO (so-called "balance-billing"). If the balance remains unpaid, collection agencies could be the next step.
Was the timing of this really good, given levels of downsizing and unemployment?
Comments are welcomed.
Was the timing of this really good, given levels of downsizing and unemployment?
Comments are welcomed.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Debut
All,
It is June 8, 2009, and after a great deal of thought (and apprehension), I dove into blogging.
I plan an approach that will be a little different from that of many other blogs that are mainly devoted to chat. Among other things, I hope to assist people in figuring out the complexities of daily life, breaking down complicated issues into small parts (they are easier to figure out that way), and intervening in disputes if requested and expressly authorized to do so (there may be a fee connected with these services, which we will discuss and agree upon). Therefore, please feel free to ask question; I will attempt to post my suggestions soon thereafter.
I may also periodically discuss items in the news and try to "translate" the competing sides to make them more understandable.
Please do not interpret anything written in this blog as a substitute for, or as legal, medical, or financial advice. That which is written here is solely offered at face value in an effort to assist readers with another point of view.
It is June 8, 2009, and after a great deal of thought (and apprehension), I dove into blogging.
I plan an approach that will be a little different from that of many other blogs that are mainly devoted to chat. Among other things, I hope to assist people in figuring out the complexities of daily life, breaking down complicated issues into small parts (they are easier to figure out that way), and intervening in disputes if requested and expressly authorized to do so (there may be a fee connected with these services, which we will discuss and agree upon). Therefore, please feel free to ask question; I will attempt to post my suggestions soon thereafter.
I may also periodically discuss items in the news and try to "translate" the competing sides to make them more understandable.
Please do not interpret anything written in this blog as a substitute for, or as legal, medical, or financial advice. That which is written here is solely offered at face value in an effort to assist readers with another point of view.
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