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USA Today
30-07-2025
- Health
- USA Today
Is your private health insurance actually Medicaid? Name changes confuse public
You might have a decent idea of which state provides your health insurance coverage if you signed up for MaineCare or Medi-Cal. But what if you enrolled in a plan under Healthy Connections? That's what South Carolina calls its Medicaid program. Medicaid is a federal-state health insurance program for low-income families that provides health insurance to more than 1 in 5 Americans. President Donald Trump's tax cut and spending legislation will trim more than $900 billion in federal spending on Medicaid over the next decade. The law will leave 10 million Americans uninsured over the next decade, according to estimates from the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office. Despite widespread media coverage of the law, which Trump dubbed the "Big Beautiful Bill," health advocates say millions of consumers who might be affected by Medicaid and Affordable Care Act cuts likely aren't aware of the scope of changes, which will be phased in over several years. In fact, many might not be aware they are on Medicaid, experts said. "Sometimes people who are on Medicaid don't even realize it's Medicaid because it has different names in different states," said Arika Sanchez, health care director at New Mexico Center on Law and Poverty. New Mexico's Medicaid program insures 34% of the state's population − the nation's highest proportion of residents covered by the public health insurance program, according to a February 2025 report by the health policy nonprofit KFF. New Mexico has tapped four private insurance companies to administer Medicaid coverage under a program the state calls Turquoise Care. It's one of 42 states that rely on private companies − called managed care − to administer one or more categories of Medicaid coverage, according to KFF. Sanchez said consumers might be confused because "when they look at their insurance card in New Mexico, it will say Turquoise Care, not necessarily Medicaid." Further complicating matters is consumers often get Medicaid coverage even though private insurers manage their benefits. Consumers might think they have a private-sector insurer when they are enrolled in a Medicaid plan administered by well-known insurance companies such as Blue Cross Blue Shield or UnitedHealthcare. The four Medicaid plans under Turquoise Care include Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Mexico, Molina Healthcare of New Mexico, Presbyterian Health Plan and UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of New Mexico. Some states have rebranded their programs so the name Medicaid doesn't appear on insurance cards or communications. Arizona calls its program the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System, or AHCCCS, which is pronounced "access." California's Medicaid program is Medi-Cal. Decision-makers often seek to identify names that are unique to their states, said Jennifer Tolbert, deputy director of the program on Medicaid and the uninsured for KFF. Some states turn to university mascots or nicknames when branding their Medicaid programs. Oklahoma's program is Sooner Care. Wisconsin offers BadgerCare. Washington state dubs its Medicaid program Apple Health. Stigma, politics motivate Medicaid rebranding Many states rename Medicaid plans to avoid the stigma people might associate with a government-provided health program. The idea is to make it seem coverage isn't much different than what consumers would get through an employer-provided insurance plan, said Joshua McCrain, a University of Utah political science professor who co-authored the study. For example, In 2024, researchers from Harvard, University of Utah and the insurance company Humana surveyed perceptions of more than 5,800 consumers who were asked about Medicaid names. When programs replaced Medicaid with a state-specific name, consumers were more likely to conclude they hadn't heard enough to say how they felt about the program. The researchers said in the study that rebranding Medicaid with state-specific program names may "muddle understanding of the program as a government-provided benefit." McCrain said some states also likely rebrand Medicaid plans for political purposes. Former President Barack Obama's signature 2010 health-care law, the Affordable Care Act, gave states the option to expand Medicaid for low-income adults. All but 10 states have expanded Medicaid, but some Republican-led states did so on their own terms. Under former Republican Gov. Mike Pence, Indiana called its Medicaid expansion the Healthy Indiana Plan, which required enrollees pay monthly premiums and manage health savings accounts. The former vice president during Trump's first term said it emphasized personal responsibility. Several states followed Indiana by filing waivers with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services that sought to implement work requirements for low-income, nondisabled adults who sought Medicaid coverage. The Biden administration blocked such waivers during the COVID-19 pandemic. But the work-or-volunteer mandate for Medicaid coverage is a pillar of Trump's tax cut and spending legislation. Georgia, the only state currently with a Medicaid work requirement, grants low-income adults a chance at Medicaid under its Pathways to Coverage program. The program extends coverage to low-income, non-disabled adults who work at least 80 hours a month or qualify for exemptions such as being full-time students or volunteers. McCrain, however, said it's unclear whether renaming Medicaid makes a difference in public perception. When people learn Medicaid provides health care access to low-income Americans, they generally support the program, he said. But some political leaders, especially Republicans in conservative states, might find it useful to rebrand Medicaid when seeking to pass legislation. "It could be the case, that (name change) had to be done in that political moment to get it passed," McCrain said.
Associated Press
24-07-2025
- Health
- Associated Press
Discover Health Group Expands Insurance Network to Improve Access to Addiction Treatment Services
New partnerships with major insurers make comprehensive care more accessible and affordable for patients in New Hampshire. Nashua, New Hampshire--(Newsfile Corp. - July 24, 2025) - Discover Health Group, a trusted rehab center serving New Hampshire, announced significant expansions to its insurance network that will dramatically increase access to care for individuals seeking substance abuse treatment. The organization has established new in-network partnerships with Carelon, Blue Cross Blue Shield, WellSense, and Uprise Health with additional coverage through Point32Health beginning August 1, 2025. 'We're thrilled to expand our network partnerships because we know that insurance coverage can be a significant barrier to accessing the addiction treatment services people desperately need,' said Greg Moulton, Founder and Managing Partner at Discover Health Group. 'These new relationships align perfectly with our mission - ensuring that well-being and recovery are accessible to as many people as possible.' The expanded network partnerships represent a major step forward in Discover Health Group's commitment to removing financial barriers to addiction treatment. The organization already accepts most major insurance plans and offers flexible, affordable self-pay options to accommodate different financial situations. Key Network Expansion Details: 'Addiction doesn't discriminate based on insurance status or financial means, and neither should access to quality treatment,' added Greg Moulton. 'These partnerships ensure that more individuals and families can focus on recovery rather than worrying about the cost of care.' For patients currently covered by these insurance plans, the transition to in-network status means reduced out-of-pocket costs and simplified billing processes. Prospective patients are encouraged to verify their specific coverage details and benefits. About Discover Health Group Discover Health Group is a trusted rehab center in Nashua, New Hampshire, offering expert treatment for drug and alcohol addiction. Licensed by the State of NH DHHS, the facility also holds prestigious Joint Commission (JCAHO) accreditation. Services include substance abuse recovery, relapse prevention, behavioral therapy, and care for co-occurring disorders like depression, anxiety, and PTSD, utilizing methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and holistic options like mindfulness meditation and art therapy. Discover Health Group offers specialized Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) and Substance Use Disorder (SUD), using FDA-approved medications like Suboxone, Vivitrol, etc. With in-network contracts such as Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS), they ensure accessible, affordable care across New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Maine, and Vermont. A professional team guides your journey to a healthier, substance-free life. For more information about Discover Health Group's services or to verify insurance coverage, visit website or call (603) 316-6148. Contact Details: Greg Moulton Mail: [email protected] Phone: (603) 316-6148 To view the source version of this press release, please visit
Time Business News
19-07-2025
- Health
- Time Business News
A Complete Guide to MyWebInsurance.com Health Insurance – Affordable, Flexible & Reliable Coverage
In today's fast-paced digital world, finding trustworthy and affordable health insurance has become more important than ever. That's where health insurance stands out as a reliable and customer-centric platform. Offering a wide range of health insurance plans, this online marketplace makes it easy for individuals, families, and small businesses to compare and purchase the best coverage for their unique needs. is a user-friendly health insurance comparison website that connects users with top-rated insurance providers. The platform simplifies the process of shopping for individual health insurance, family medical plans, and short-term coverage. With advanced filtering options and instant quotes, the site helps users make well-informed decisions without the hassle of dealing with multiple brokers. Easy Comparison Tools offers a seamless online experience where users can compare multiple health insurance quotes in just a few clicks. You can view side-by-side details of deductibles, co-pays, monthly premiums, and coverage limits to select a policy that fits your budget and healthcare needs. Access to Major Insurance Providers In the world of financial tech, the platform partners with leading insurance companies like Blue Cross Blue Shield, UnitedHealthcare, Aetna, and more. This ensures that users have access to competitive pricing and comprehensive coverage options. Customized Plans Whether you're self-employed, between jobs, or looking for family health insurance, tailors its plan recommendations to suit your lifestyle and income level. You can find ACA-compliant plans, PPOs, HMOs, and short-term health insurance policies based on your criteria. Instant Health Insurance Quotes Get real-time quotes from top insurers without the need to enter sensitive information upfront. Get real-time quotes from top insurers without the need to enter sensitive information upfront. Expert Advice and Resources The site includes helpful guides and articles on understanding health benefits, enrollment periods, and choosing the right policy. The site includes helpful guides and articles on understanding health benefits, enrollment periods, and choosing the right policy. Enrollment Support From choosing a plan to completing your enrollment, provides 24/7 support to make the process hassle-free. Absolutely. The website uses secure encryption protocols to protect user data. Additionally, all insurance providers listed on the site are fully licensed and regulated. With positive reviews and growing popularity, health insurance has become a trusted source for many Americans looking for affordable and effective medical coverage. If you're searching for reliable, affordable, and easy-to-understand health insurance plans, is a top choice. It streamlines the complex insurance shopping process and empowers users to choose the best coverage for themselves or their families. Don't leave your health to chance—visit today and explore the best health insurance options tailored just for you. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Yahoo
11-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Free $20 Bluebikes credit for riders during summer MBTA service disruptions
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts is providing a free $20 Bluebikes credit to help riders stay mobile during summer MBTA service disruptions. 'With continued transit closures affecting commutes across the region, this offer fully funded by Blue Cross provides a convenient, healthy transportation option for residents and commuters throughout Metro Boston,' Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts said in a statement on Thursday. The $20 credits complement the City of Boston's free unlocks offer tied to select MBTA closures. Beginning Thursday, riders can redeem the free $20 Bluebikes credit by entering code BLUECROSSMAMBTA2 in the 'Rewards' section of the Bluebikes app. The credit applies to both pedal bikes and ebikes and is valid across Bluebikes' 550 stations in 13 municipalities, including Arlington, Boston, Brookline, Cambridge, Chelsea, Everett, Malden, Medford, Newton, Revere, Salem, Somerville, and Watertown. Credits are available while supplies last and must be used by Dec. 31. 'Summer is one of the best times to take advantage of bikeshare, and we want to make it easier for people to keep moving while MBTA service is disrupted,' Jeff Bellows, vice president of corporate citizenship and public affairs at Blue Cross, said in a statement. 'This $20 Bluebikes credit reflects our commitment to expanding access to active transportation and building healthier, more connected communities.' Bluebikes is municipally owned by 13 cities and towns in eastern Massachusetts and jointly managed by the Cities of Boston, Cambridge, Everett, and Somerville, and the Town of Brookline. Operated by Lyft, the system has been supported by Blue Cross as title sponsor since May 2018. The summer initiative marks the second time in 2025 that Blue Cross has launched a Bluebikes credit program to support commuters affected by MBTA maintenance work. For more information on Bluebikes, visit This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW
Yahoo
01-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Hendersonville doctor, office manager indicted on federal charges for $20M in false medical insurance claims
HENDERSONVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — A Hendersonville medical doctor and her office manager are accused of defrauding Medicare and Blue Cross Blue Shield after billing $20 million for medical services that were never provided, according to the Department of Justice. In a Monday press release, the Middle District of Tennessee U.S. Attorney's Office announced Dr. Xuhan Zhang, 62, — also known as Shelia Zhang and Xuhan Mei — and her office manager husband Jing Qi Mei, 65, were indicted on charges of conspiracy to commit health care fraud, health care fraud, false statements related to health care, aggravated identity theft, money laundering conspiracy and money laundering. RELATED: More than 300 charged in $14.6 billion health care fraud schemes takedown, Justice Department says From 2017 to 2025, Mei reportedly billed Medicare and Blue Cross Blue Shield approximately $20 million for inpatient hospital services allegedly provided by Zhang. The insurance programs paid out approximately $6.5 million of these claims. Investigators found that the medical services were never provided because the hospitals mentioned in the claims were closed, or because the patients were deceased or in nursing homes. Additionally, the couple allegedly billed for services that lasted over 24 hours in one day. Following the investigation, the government seized $6 million from bank accounts and a Tesla Cybertruck. The investigation was part of the DOJ's recent health care fraud takedown, which brought charges against 324 people nationwide for over $14.6 billion in alleged fraudulent billings and the illegal diversion of more than 15.6 million controlled substance pills. ⏩ Robert E. McGuire, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee, said in a press release, 'Our office will vigorously pursue those who would defraud American taxpayers by these illegal health care fraud schemes. The charges announced today are just our latest effort to crack down on health care fraud in the nation's health care capital. Nashville is a great place for honest health care business and a terrible place for those who would commit health care fraud.' The case involving Zhang and Mei is being prosecuted by Senior Litigation Counsel Robert Levine and Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Bogni. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
