Developments in Benefits - December, 2011
DOL Issues FAQs on Mental Health Parity 
On Nov. 17, 2011, the Department of Labor (DOL) issued Frequently Asked Questions to provide guidance on the implementation of the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA). This Fickewirth and Associates Legislative Brief provides an overview of that guidance. For a copy of the guidance see www.dol.gov/ebsa/faqs/faq-aca7.html - View the PDF
Health Care Reform: HHS Proposes Approach for Defining Essential Health Benefits
Beginning in 2014, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) requires non-grandfathered plans in the individual and small group markets to offer a comprehensive package of items and services, known as essential health benefits. This requirement applies to plans offered inside and outside of the state insurance exchanges (Exchanges), which are scheduled to become effective in 2014. However, for now, self-insured group health plans, health insurance coverage offered in the large group market and grandfathered plans are not required to cover essential health benefits. - View the PDF
What is a medical child support order?
A medical child support order is a judgment, decree, or order (including an approval of a property settlement) that: Is made pursuant to State domestic relations law (including a community property law) or certain other State laws relating to medical child support (see Q1-8); and Provides for child (more)
