Florida Hospital (Orlando) enters health-insurance business

[steve2470]

http://www.orlandosentinel.com/health/os-florida-hospital-health-insurance-20130825,0,1934044.story

In October, Florida Hospital will launch into the health-insurance business, executives announced today.

In partnership with Health First Health Plans, the hospital system expects ultimately to offer both Medicare and private health insurance in as many as 11 Central Florida counties.

But it will start small, rolling out a Medicare Advantage plan to residents in Volusia and Flagler counties.

*snip*

Across the country, more hospitals are entering the insurance business as they position themselves for changes under the health-care overhaul, say experts.

*end of excerpt*

Hosts, I know this is a local story, but apparently it has relevance to the national Obamacare market.

[DonCoquixote]

1. this MIGHT not be as bad

As frankly, LOCAL power may mean that these plans realize they cannot hide behind the corporate office in Wherever City, Whatever State, that hide behind a tax address in Bermuda and a customer service office in Bangalore, India. I do not think they have pure motives, but they may be forced to work with Florida, as opposed to being able to hide.

Frankly, I look forward to the days when credit Unions can buy hospitals and make them TRUE Nonprofits, as opposed to the way the GOP has allowed that term to be abused.

[steve2470]

2. yes, I completely agree that local is much better

From what I know, that particular hospital chain has a pretty good reputation in my neck of the woods (it's a non-profit according to this link ). If someone knows differently, please jump in.

I'd like to hear how this trend will affect healthcare in general.

[msongs]

3. we need health care NOT health insurance for profit nt

[steve2470]

4. agreed, single payer for all asap nt

[silvershadow]

5. I like the way you think. nt

[Sgent]

6. The two most effecient

health care systems in the country are the VA system and kaiser permanente. The ACO's that are part of the new health law almost require this type of consolidation.