Guest opinion: Oppose national catastrophic fund
\n(Ft. Myers News-Press © 11/28/2011) (Registration Required)\n
Despite there being 19 named storms this year, including Hurricane Irene which estimates suggest caused $10 to $15 billion in damages, Florida was once again spared this hurricane season.\n\n");
document.write("Maybe it?s a change in the weather patterns or just good luck, but either way we now have another opportunity to make the necessary changes to the state-run insurer to reduce the risk to Florida taxpayers while ...\n
Medicare deadline nears
\n(Sarasota Herald-Tribune © 11/28/2011) (Registration Required)\n
SHINE program offers free Medicare counseling
\n(Citrus County Chronicle © 11/27/2011) (Registration Required)\n
LECANTO — The countless options for Medicare coverage could cause enough bewilderment to make anyone’s head spin.\n\n\n\n\n “It’s confusing,” said Will Whitten, a volunteer with the local SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) program.\n\n\n\n\n And with Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period ending Wednesday, Dec. 7, there may be seniors out there w");
document.write("ho still have a...\n
Insurer must pay for Florida rental car crash
\n(Crestview News Bulletin © 11/27/2011)
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — A rental car customer's insurer must cover crash injuries, even though an unauthorized driver was behind the wheel.\nThat's what the Florida Supreme Court decided in a 5-2 opinion Wednesday.");
document.write("\nThe majority ruled in the Gadsden County case that the rental car was covered by Katusha Shazier's insurance policy because it was a “temporary substitute auto.”\nT...\n
State-backed insurance plan encourages coastal development
\n(Daytona Beach News-Journal © 11/27/2011)
Manley Fuller, of Tallahassee, is president");
document.write(" of the Florida Wildlife Federation.\n \n \n \n \n\nDespite there being 19 named storms this year, including Hurricane Irene which estimates suggest caused $10 billion to $15 billion in damages, Florida was once again spared this hurricane season. Maybe it's a change in the weather patterns or just good luck, but either way we now have another ...\n
");
document.write("We have a car wreck of a crisis
\n(Ocala Star Banner © 11/27/2011)
Much is made of Florida’s property insurance crisis, and with good reason. Rates are high. The Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Fund, or CAT Fund, which is intended to help cover property losses in case of a major hurricane, is almost $4 billion underfunded.\n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\nAnd if we are slammed with a big ’cane, or two, or three, or four, as we were in 20...\n
Debt deadlock helps Medicare, Social Security advocates, but for how long?
\n(Palm Beach Post © 11/27/2011) (Registration Required)\n
Updated: 9:38 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 26, 2011\n\n\nPosted: 9:37 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 26, 2011\n\n\n\n\n\nWhile many Americans view the debt deadlock in Washington as a national \nstumbling block, advocates for Social Security and ");
document.write("Medicare saw it as a \nvictory when the congressional supercommittee declared defeat last week.\n\n\n\n\nThe programs they view as vital to ...\n
Quality Health Plans to stop operating
\n(Lakeland Ledger © 11/26/2011) (Registration Required)\n
Quality Health Plans, which has 2,680 Polk County Medicare patients ");
document.write("enrolled, will stop operating by Thursday.\n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\nThe federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services -- CMS -- has terminated its Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug contract with the plan, effective that day.\n\nThe plan went into receivership Nov. 16 and was put under the control ...\n
Florida's brighter job pi");
document.write("cture obscures longer-term problems like low pay, lack of diversification
\n(Orlando Sentinel © 11/26/2011) (Registration Required)\n
TALLAHASSEE — Florida's overall employment picture is brightening after three lost years.\n\nThere is something to be thankful for in the 93,900 net new jobs that Gov. Rick Scott keeps trumpeting have been created this year. But the news masks a few underlying problems with the labor market in Florida.\n\nFor one, the industries doing the hiring — largely theme parks, bars and restaurants ...\n
");
document.write("
Ideology no cure for Florida
\n(Palm Beach Post © 11/26/2011) (Registration Required)\n
Updated: 7:10 p.m. Friday, Nov. 25, 2011\n\n\nPosted: 7:00 p.m. Friday, Nov. 25, 2011\n\n\n\nGov. Scott and the GOP-led Legislature have put at risk the physical health of Flori");
document.write("dians and the fiscal health of the state by rejecting, or declining to pursue more than $106 million in federal grants tied to the Affordable Care Act.\n\nNearly $1 million of that m...\n
Lawmaker seeks ad ban over insurer's Nazi ties
\n(Sacramento Bee © 11/26/2011) (Registration Required)\n
MIAMI -- A");
document.write(" congresswoman from Florida is pressuring National Public Radio stations, the cable television network CNBC and others to stop airing sponsorships and advertising by a giant German insurer that collaborated with the Nazis.\n\n U.S. Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, who is pushing legislation that would allow Holocaust survivors to sue Allianz AG, has launched a letter-writing campaign aime...\n
Citizens Insurance
\n(Lakeland Ledger © 11/23/2011) (Registration Required)\n
As Florida's economy struggles to recover, there is one issue brewing below the surface that if left unattended may erase any recovery, or worse. I commend Gov. Rick Scott and the Citizens Property Insurance Board for proactively tackling Citizens' over-exposure to protect the state's taxpayers [\"Fla. largest Insurer Wants Sweeping Changes,\" Nov. 14).\n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ...\n
Guest opinion: Subsidizing coastal development is risky to taxpayers, habitat
\n(Lehigh News Star © 11/23/2011)
Despite there being 19 named storms this year, including Hurricane Irene which estimates suggest caused $10 to $15 billion in damages, Florida was once again spared this hurricane season.\n\nMaybe it?s a change in the weather patterns or just good ");
document.write("luck, but either way we now have another opportunity to make the necessary changes to the state-run insurer to reduce the risk to Florida taxpayers while ...\n
George Will: Fuel for a counterargument on Obamacare
\n(Sarasota Herald-Tribune © 11/23/2011) (Registration Required)\n
WASHINGTON\n \n \n\n \n ");
document.write(" \n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\nShortly before the Supreme Court agreed to rule on the constitutionality of Obamacare's individual mandate, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit affirmed, 2-1, its constitutionality. Writing for the majority, Judge Laurence Silberman, a Reagan appointee, brusquely acknowledged that upholding the mandate means there is no limit...\n
Reform of Citizens Property Insurance Corp. is welcome
\n(South Florida Sun-Sentinel © 11/23/2011) (Registration Required)\n
Based on a request from Gov. Rick Scott, management from Citizens Property Insurance Corp. is expected to submit a proposal to the Florida Cabinet with a plan to reduce Citizens' size and risk. \n\nWe look forward to hearing the suggestions presented by Citizens, because for years, we have supported reform of both Citizens and the Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Fund and are pleased to finally have a");
document.write(" ...\n
Time to crack down on auto insurance fraud
\n(Bradenton Herald © 11/22/2011)
Auto insurance fraud continues to soar in Florida over an epidemic of staged vehicle accidents, fake injuries, needless medical treatment and questionable claims. Sunshine State drivers pay the bill, which will amount to an estimated $658 millio");
document.write("n this year in higher premiums, according to the Insurance Information Institute. That figure is a whopping 122 percent higher than just two years ago.\n\nTh...\n
Humana in talks to get Quality's members
\n(Florida Health News © 11/22/2011)
By Carol Gentry\n 11/22/11 © Health News Florida\n \n \n\n\n\n Hu");
document.write("mana, Florida's largest Medicare company, is in talks with federal officials about taking in the 10,000 HMO enrollees from insolvent Quality Health Plans.\n\n\n \n\n\n Mitch Lubitz, a spokesman for Humana in Tampa, confirmed that the company has been in talks with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services ...\n
Fix Fla. No-Fault Insurance Laws
\n(Lakeland Ledger © 11/22/2011) (Registration Required)\n
Florida's no-fault system is creating problems for Florida's businesses and consumers. Florida is the No. 1 state in the United States for fraudulent auto-insurance claims and home to four of the 10 worst cities for auto-?insurance fraud: Tampa, Miami, Orlando and Hialeah.\n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\nFlorida Office of Insurance Regulation statistics reveal that there are fewer...\n
Atwater releases legislative wish list
\n(Orlando Sentinel © 11/22/2011) (Registration Required)\n
TALLAHASSEE — Just in time for the upcoming holiday season, Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater has released his legislative wish list. \n\n\nHere are some of his top priorities:\n\n\n* Atwater plans to seek authority to review and approve or reject state contracts prior to execution. \n\n\n* Perso");
document.write("nal Injury Protection Insurance reform — The CFO and Governor held a press conference last week t...\n
State Farm: Florida in top 10 for cooking fires on Thanksgiving
\n(Orlando Sentinel © 11/22/2011) (Registration Required)\n
Are we hot or what? \n\nFlorida ranks in the top 10 for … cooking fi");
document.write("res on Thanksgiving Day. \n\nThat's according to a report from Illinois-based State Farm Insurance. \n\nThe insurer says more cooking fires occur on Turkey Day than any other holiday. \n\nFlorida ranks seventh in the nation for cooking-related claims on Thanksgiving Day, according to State Farm's claims data. \n\nNo. 1? Texas. \n...\n
Study: Florida workers face ");
document.write("8 percent health insurance cost hike or higher deductible
\n(WFTS ABC Channel 28 Tampa © 11/22/2011)
TAMPA - Florida workers can expect their employment-based health insurance to keep pecking at their paychecks. \n \nBut some Florida companies may be bucking the trend of significant cost increases for 2012, especially if they institute wellness screening and go to high deductible plans. \n \nThe cost for employer-sponsored health insurance in Florida is expected to increase 8 percent next year or abo...\n
Guest opinion: State workers pay plenty for their health insurance
\n(Ft. Myers News-Press © 11/21/2011) (Registration Required)\n
I work for the state. Every pay period, the state pays $264 for my family?s health insurance policy, and I contribute $316. That means I pay, out-of-pocket, a little over $7,500 per year to cover two adults and one child.\n\nThis rate i");
document.write("s set to increase, yet again, in a little over a month. I?m not complaining. I?ve weighed the options, and I?m grateful for the opportunity to purchase health insuran...\n
Report: Average U.S. centenarian will live two more years
\n(Houston Chronicle © 11/21/2011) (Registration Required)\n
Clarewood Hous");
document.write("e in Houston has an annual "Over 90" party honoring residents who are nonagenarians and centenarians. | Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle \n\n\nThere?s more longevity to come for those who live to be 90 or 100, according to 90+ in the United States, a new joint report from the U.S. Census Bureau and the National Institute on Aging.\n\n\nThe average person who is 90 today is expect...\n
Effort Under Way to Provide Health Care for Poor
\n(Lakeland Ledger © 11/21/2011) (Registration Required)\n
BARTOW | An outline is coming together for better-coordinated efforts to extend health care to Polk County's poorest uninsured residents, many of whom aren't getting care despite ongoing county and volunteer programs.\n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\nHealth system consultant Scott Ponaman gave an update Friday to members of the Citizens Healthcare Oversight Committee. The COC is an...\n<");
document.write("br/>
Goldman Sachs pays fine
\n(Sarasota Herald-Tribune © 11/21/2011) (Registration Required)\n
Goldman Sachs & Co. will pay a $1.75 million fine to the state regulators for its role in a securities debacle.\n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\nThe Florida Office of Financial Regulation reached a");
document.write(" settlement with the New York investment firm after finding it misled investors by falsely claiming auction rate securities were secure, liquid investments.\n\nWith the settlement, the firm...\n
Hielscher: Goldman Sachs pays fine over securities debacle
\n(Sarasota Herald-Tribune © 11/21/2011) (Registration Require");
document.write("d)\n
Goldman Sachs & Co. will pay a $1.75 million fine to the state regulators for its role in a securities debacle.\n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\nThe Florida Office of Financial Regulation reached a settlement with the New York investment firm after finding it misled investors by falsely claiming auction rate securities were secure, liquid investments.\n\nWith the settlement, the firm...\n
St. Lucie County urges residents to review updated flood maps
\n(Stuart News © 11/21/2011)
FORT PIERCE ?In support of the National Flood Insurance Program, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has undertaken a national effort called Flood Map Modernization to produce more reliable flood risk data. Advances in geographic information systems, surveying and mapping have been utilized to convert the existing Flood Insurance Rate Maps to a more accurate and reliable digital format...\n
Lawsuit: Advocates say Medicare patients getting hospitalized without admitting them
\n(Collier Citizen © 11/20/2011)
NAPLES ?\nOlder patients who think they have been admitted to a hospital are finding that's not always the case and a consumer's group has pursued legal action to protect their Medicare rights.\n\nThe Center for Medicare Ad");
document.write("vocacy filed a lawsuit last week against the federal government to halt hospitals' use of \"observation status\" in a way that deprives seniors of their hospital coverage under Medic...\n
Florida Gov?t Weekly Roundup: Let's Get To Work On The Session
\n(North Escambia.com © 11/20/2011)
November 20, 2011\n \n \n \n\nThe occasional ch");
document.write("ill in the air — what passes for a chill in Tallahassee — sent signals that 2011 was drawing to an end. But with an early session slated for 2012 to deal with redistricting, lawmakers were beginning to lay the groundwork for the major proposals of the coming year.\n\n\nExcept, it seemed, for the redistricting debate that prompted the early start...\n
");
document.write("Investment firm offers salvation to distressed homeowners, but some say they were misled
\n(Palm Beach Post © 11/20/2011) (Registration Required)\n
Updated: 10:07 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 19, 2011\n\n\nPosted: 10:00 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 19, 2011\n\n\n\n\n\nThe Nationwide Investment Firm peddles foreclosure rescue to South Florida's \nmost desperate homeowners, offering to beat the banks while maintaining \ndignity and peace of mind.\n\n\n\n\nAmid the wreckage of this once vibrant real estate market, the 3-year");
document.write("-old ...\n
David Hart: We all pay for No. 1 ranking in auto fraud
\n(Tallahassee Democrat © 11/20/2011) (Registration Required)\n
Ten years ago, Florida faced some of the highest worker's compensation insurance rates in the country. Lax policies in state law resulted in widespread and costly fraud that h");
document.write("it businesses squarely in their pocketbooks.\n\nTo help clean up the fraud and substantially decrease skyrocketing rates, the Florida Chamber of Commerce launched an awareness movement to shine a light on the extreme problems a...\n
Jose L. Gonzalez: Put the brakes on PIP fraud
\n(Tallahassee Democrat © 11/20/2011) (Registration Required)\n
Florida's no-fault automobile insurance system is creating problems for Florida's businesses and consumers.\n\nFlorida is the No. 1 state for fraudulent auto insurance claims and home to four of the 10 worst cities for auto insurance fraud: Tampa, Miami, Orlando and Hialeah.\n\nFlorida Office of Insurance Regulation statistics reveal that there are fewer drivers, fewer collisions and fewer crash-relat...\n
Sean Shaw: Advocates won't stop fighting for consumers
\n(Tallahassee Democrat © 11/20/2011) (Registration Required)\n
Re: \"Consumers, taxpayers lose in Citizens sinkhole debacle\" (My View, Nov. 6).\n\nJust stop.\n\nPassion is sometimes lost in a political city like Tallahassee or Washington. Paid lobbyists or worse, legislators flush with industry cash, are often more concerned with money than with values and principles. That's probably why it's so hard for the ");
document.write("insurance industry to understand that the Policyholders ...\n
Top court names lawyers to argue healthcare case
\n(Chicago Tribune © 11/19/2011) (Registration Required)\n
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The Supreme Court on Friday named an attorney to argue that challenges to President Barack Obama's healthcare in");
document.write("surance requirements must wait until after that part of the law has taken effect in 2014.\n\n The high court also appointed a second attorney to argue that all other parts of the law can stand if the centerpiece provision - the requirement that all Ameri...\n
Citizens Property Insurance in more flux than ever
\n(Florida Keys Keys");
document.write("net © 11/19/2011)
Citizens Property Insurance Corp. is confronting a growing dilemma -- it has too many customers.\nAlready the largest property windstorm carrier in Florida, the quasi-public agency finds itself caught between two hard places in Tallahassee.\n\nAnd depending on how the push-and-pull plays out in the Legislature, Keys property owners could find themselves paying a lot more for windstorm insurance -- if...\n
Chamber to be watchdog for insurance fraud
\n(Fort Pierce Hometown News © 11/19/2011)
Florida is No. 1 in the United States for auto insurance fraud and abuse. Generally, being No. 1 calls for a celebration. But in this case, where Floridians are being forced to pay substantially higher auto insurance rates because of the state's fraud-riddled no-fault insurance law, celebrating is the last thing on most drivers' minds.\n\nAccording to the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation, auto...\n
Rick Scott Predicts \"Obamacare\" Will Be a Loser in the Supreme Court
\n(Ft. Lauderdale New Times © 11/19/2011)
Illustration by Miche Ratto\nWho needs Husseinobamacare?\n?Yesterday, Gov. Rick Scott made a visit to the Palm Beach Post editorial board and predicted that the challenge of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act");
document.write(" raised by Florida and 25 other states would win in the U.S. Supreme Court.\n\nArguments before the Supreme Court won't take place until March, but Scott said yesterday, \"It's not the ...\n
American Benefits Council president sees options for health care reform
\n(Kansas City Star © 11/19/2011)
The national president of the Ameri");
document.write("can Benefits Council is putting his bets on the U.S. Supreme Court deciding that the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act’s individual insurance mandate is constitutional.\n\nIn remarks this week to the Kansas City Compensation and Benefits Association, the official, James A. Klein, said he expected the court to show “some deference to Congress havi...\n
Health law is a huge invasion of liberty
\n(Kansas City Star © 11/19/2011)
Shortly before the Supreme Court agreed to rule on the constitutionality of Obamacare’s individual mandate, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit affirmed, 2-1, its constitutionality. Writing for the majority, Judge Laurence Silberman, a Reagan appointee, brusquely acknowledged that upholding the mandate means there is no limit to Congress’ powers under the Commerce Clause. ...\n
Is health care already rationed?
\n(Palm Beach Post © 11/19/2011) (Registration Required)\n
Nursing student May Yong administers a free flu shot in Zuccotti Park in New York, Sunday, Nov. 13, 2011. The flu shots were being provided by Physicians for a National Health Care Program. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)\n\n\nWhen Gov. Rick Scott was at The Palm Beach Post on Thursday, he said that ?");
document.write("Obamacare is an absolute disaster for patients.?\n\n\nEvery ?government-run? health care system, he said, does t...\n
Family: Chinese drywall in home made daughters toenails fall off
\n(Tampa Bay Online © 11/19/2011)
TAMPA --\n \n \n\nWhen the toenails of Patrick and Ilknur Bradshaw's two young girls fell off this summer, ");
document.write("they say their doctor blamed their house.\n\nThe Chinese-made drywall damaged their air conditioning unit and appliances, and they think it contributed to a multitude of other health problems. But the toenails were the last straw. They moved out weeks later.\n\n\"The doctor recommended we m...\n
Is there no limit to Congress?s power?
\n(Washingt");
document.write("on Post © 11/19/2011) (Registration Required)\n
Shortly before the Supreme Court agreed to rule on the constitutionality of Obamacare''s individual mandate, a three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit affirmed its constitutionality. Writing for the majority, Judge Laurence H. Silberman, a Reagan appointee, brusquely acknowledged that upholding the mandate means there is no limit to Congress’s powers under the Com...\n
CFO Atwater wants to crack down on attorney referral services
\n(WFSU Newsroom © 11/19/2011)
Florida is one of the top states in the country for Personal Injury Protection or PIP auto insurance fraud. Tampa comes in behind New York as the city with the most false claims filed. Regan McCarthy reports the legislature's attempt to fix the problem has lawmakers and the citizenry pointing fingers at everyone from healthcare providers to i");
document.write("nsurance companies to lawyer referral services.\n\nEveryon...\n
Medicaid expansion a big part of Florida's healthcare challenge
\n(WFSU Newsroom © 11/19/2011)
Florida along with a coalition of 25 other states and the National Federation of Independent Businesses want the Supreme Court to declare the healthcare overhaul law uncon");
document.write("stitutional. Lynn Hatter reports, the group is focusing on two key arguments: 1) that the federal government cannot require everyone to purchase health insurance and 2) that an expansion of the Medicaid program for low-income pe...\n
Drywall maker to reimburse home builders
\n(Bradenton Herald © 11/17/2011)
NEW ORLEANS -- A se");
document.write("ttlement outlined Wednesday between a major manufacturer of Chinese-made drywall and homebuilders who used the tainted product in Florida (including Manatee County), Texas, Louisiana and Mississippi could affect anywhere from 800 to 1,500 homes, attorneys said. \n\nLawyers called it a significant step toward resolving problems with some 10,000 buildings blamed on the drywall.\n\n&#x...\n
Florida Morning: Grand Jury probing deal involving Greg Evers; casino bill gets first hearing
\n(Florida Times-Union © 11/17/2011)
By: Matt Dixon (matt.dixon@jacksonville.com, @Mdixon55) \n\n\n\nFlorida Morning appears every weekday. Subscribe via e-mail. \n\n\n\nGRAND JURY INVESTIGATING EVERS: A grand jury is investigating a Florida state senator for his role in helping a Panhandle billboard company cut down state-owned trees without paying costly fees. Florida Times-Union http://bit.ly/rWKgsH\n\n\n\nPIP A day ...\n
Matt Reed: We need better health, fewer tests
\n(Florida Today © 11/17/2011) (Registration Required)\n
Two years ago, Dr. Peter J. Weiss, an internist, left his job as CEO of Health First Health Plans to write a book based on his motto: ?More health, less care.?\n\nI questioned ?Dr. Pete,? as he?s known on his ");
document.write("blog, about the so-called obesity epidemic, the value of diagnostic tests and why yearly physical exams should be reconceived as the ?annual mental.?\n\nI was lucky to catch him: Weiss has taken ...\n
Drug dispensing latest debate in workers comp
\n(Lehigh News Star © 11/17/2011)
A debate about doctors dispensing drugs to workers");
document.write(" compensation patients is growing increasingly noisy, as business groups contend the practice drives up insurance costs.\n\nThe debate played out Wednesday during the meeting of a relatively obscure workers-compensation insurance panel. Tom Panza, an attorney for Automated HealthCare Solutions, which provides software used in physician dispensing, bl...\n
Guest ");
document.write("commentary: Gear up Florida: Put the brakes on accident Fraud
\n(Naples Daily News © 11/17/2011) (Registration Required)\n
Florida's no-fault system is creating problems for Florida's businesses and consumers.\n\nFlorida is the No. 1 state in the United States for fraudulent auto insurance claims and home to four of the 10 worst cities for auto insurance fraud: Tampa, Miami, Orlando and Hialeah.\n\nFlorida Office of Insurance Regulation statistics reveal that there are fewer drivers, fewer collisions, and fewer crash-rela...\n
Health costs up again, but not so much
\n(San Antonio Express-News © 11/17/2011) (Registration Required)\n
Workers will see more taken out of their paychecks next year to co");
document.write("ver rising health care costs, but the bite won't be nearly as bad as it's been in past years.\n\nThe average growth in health benefit costs is expected to slow to 5.4 percent in 2012, likely the smallest increase in 15 years, a survey by human-resource consulting firm Mercer found. \n\nConsidering that low double-digit percentage gains ...\n
Florida second most ex");
document.write("pensive state for health insurance
\n(South Florida Business Journal © 11/17/2011) (Registration Required)\n
A study by the Commonwealth Fund found that Florida was the second most expensive state for health insurance premiums.\n\n\nThe average annual health insurance premium in Florida was $15,032 in 2010, a 61 percent increase since 2003. Only New Hampshire was more expensive, although the District of Columbia had the highest average premium in the nation.\n\n\nThat 61 percent premium increase in Florida put...\n
Insurers Threaten 1,100 Jobs in Push for Health-Law Relief
\n(Washington Post © 11/17/2011) (Registration Required)\n
Insurers Threaten 1,100 Jobs in Push for Health-Law ReliefPat WechslerNov 16, 2011 3:30 pm ET(Adds number of Aetna expat plans in 16th paragraph.) Nov. 16 (Bloomberg) -- Four health insurers led by Cigna Corp. h");
document.write("ave asked the Obama administration to exempt medical plans they sell to Americans overseas from the 2010 health law, saying a denial may imperil about 1,100 U.S. jobs. The threat to...\n
Scott Targets Auto Insurance Fraud, Calls for Reforms
\n(West Orlando News © 11/17/2011)
On the eve of legislative testimony, Gov. Rick Sc");
document.write("ott and Cabinet members joined forces Tuesday to call on lawmakers to enact significant changes to curb fraud they say is costing motorists nearly $1 billion a year in higher premiums.\n\n\nFlanked by law enforcement officers in a fourth floor Capitol rotunda packed with industry lobbyists, Scott said staged crashes, bogus clinics and unnecessary medic...\n
Gov. ");
document.write("wants change in Florida's no-fault insurance
\n(Winter Haven News Chief © 11/17/2011)
TALLAHASSEE -- With Gov. Rick Scott throwing his political weight behind it, a move to revamp Florida's no-fault auto insurance program will be pushed to the forefront of the 2012 Legislature.\n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\nBut with a similar bill failing in 2011, there are no guarantees that proponents of changing the personal injury protection (PIP) law will be any more success...\n
Gov. Scott supports shrinking Florida hurricane fund
\n(Bradenton Herald © 11/16/2011)
TALLAHASSEE -- Gov. Rick Scott said Tuesday that he supports shrinking Florida''s hurricane insurance backup fund even though that would raise premiums.\r\n\r\nScott also said he sees no need to abolish the state''s mandatory no-fault automobile insurance system, which has been riddled with massive fraud. Scott said he'");
document.write("'s confident lawmakers can find a way to fix the system.\r\n\r\nThe governor and Florid...\n
Health care law website answers coverage questions
\n(Bradenton Herald © 11/16/2011)
Recently, a reader complained in a letter that he had been unable to find anyone who could answer his “one simple question: Where do you get affordabl");
document.write("e health care?” I write to offer some suggestions.\n\nIf the reader is 25 or younger, he could be carried on his parents’ health insurance policy. If he is employed, he might be eligible for employer-provided health insurance. However, i...\n
Florida Morning: Casino questions; more claims bill fun
\n(Florida Times-Union © 11/16");
document.write("/2011)
By: Matt Dixon (matt.dixon@jacksonville.com, @Mdixon55) \n\n\n\nFlorida Morning appears every weekday. Subscribe via e-mail. \n\n\n\nCAN SOUTH FLORIDA SUPPORT 3? As Florida lawmakers prepare to consider a massive piece of legislation that would open up the state to glitzy Las Vegas-style casinos, supporters and opponents are asking whether the South Florida market can generate en...\n
Editorial: Court right to take up health law
\n(Ft. Myers News-Press © 11/16/2011) (Registration Required)\n
Next June the U.S. Supreme Court is expected to hand down a ruling that could tilt a presidential election.\n\nBut despite the political implications, the court is right to take up the challenge to the 2010 federal health care law before the election. The law?s effects are so serious that individuals, businesses and state governments need to have the legal issues resolved as");
document.write(" soon as possible, and ne...\n
State outlines plan for catastrophe fund
\n(Ft. Myers News-Press © 11/16/2011) (Registration Required)\n
The Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Fund would shrink by about $5 billion over the next four years under a prescription offered to the governor and Cabinet on Tuesday tha");
document.write("t would raise Floridians? average insurance premiums by about 10 percent over the next several years.\n\nThe Cat Fund, which is paid into by insurers, is the state-backed re-insurance fund for insurance companies, tapped in cases whe...\n
Humana Contract With LRMC Ending Dec. 8 Over Monetary Disagreements
\n(Lakeland Ledger © 11/16/2011)");
document.write(" (Registration Required)\n
LAKELAND | About 2,500 Polk County residents on Humana's Medicare Advantage health plan won't have Lakeland Regional Medical Center and its physician clinics on their approved providers list after Dec. 8.\n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Facts\n \n\nAbout 2,500 Polk County residents will lose access to the center and its physician clinics as of Dec. 8.\n\n\"Humana will provide continuity of care to...\n
Scott Wants Change in Florida's No-Fault Insurance Program
\n(Lakeland Ledger © 11/16/2011) (Registration Required)\n
TALLAHASSEE | With Gov. Rick Scott throwing his political weight behind it, a move to revamp Florida's no-fault auto insurance program will be pushed to the forefront of the 2012 Legislature.\n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\nBut with a similar bill failing in 2011, there are no guarantees that proponents ");
document.write("of changing the personal injury protection (PIP) law will be any more successf...\n
Gov. Scott launches campaign for auto insurance changes
\n(Miami Daily Business Review © 11/16/2011)
Rick Scott \nPhoto by Jill Kahn \nFlanked by law enforcement officers, lawmakers and Cabinet officials, Gov. Rick Scott on Tuesday urged lawmakers");
document.write(" to target fraud in personal injury protection auto insurance that is costing motorists nearly $1 billion a year in additional premiums.\n\nFollowing up on a working group convened by Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater, Scott told reporters he will push fo...\n
Florida investment panel delays vote on director
\n(Miami Herald © 11/16/20");
document.write("11) (Registration Required)\n
A board chaired by Gov. Rick Scott that invests billions in retirement and other state funds has put off a decision on whether to keep its executive director.The State Board of Administration on Tuesday accepted Ash Williams' recommendation to delay its annual vote on his retention.The postponement came even though an advisory panel on Monday found no conflict of interest resulted from the board's...\n
Insurance agent accused of scamming elderly clients out of thousands
\n(Orlando-WFTV (ABC) © 11/16/2011)
OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. — \n\nAn Osceola County insurance agent is accused of scamming elderly clients out of more than half a million dollars, according to investigators. \n\nInvestigators said as an insurance agent in Kissimmee, 59-year-old Victor Ruser Sr. gained the trust of his elderly clients, and then stole the money they were saving for retir");
document.write("ement. \n\nHe was arrested after a several mo...\n
PIP reform in Florida looks challenging, even as Scott, Atwater urge its passage
\n(Palm Beach Post © 11/16/2011) (Registration Required)\n
Gov. Rick Scott and Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater called on lawmakers Tuesday to revamp personal injury prot");
document.write("ection auto insurance, which critics say is costing Floridians an extra $1 billion a year because of fraud, suspect medical payments and legal expenses.\n\nInsurance rates for the $10,000 PIP coverage, which state law requires of all Florida drivers, have spiked as much as 80 percent in...\n
NO-FAULT'S FUTURE
\n(Sarasota Herald-Tribune ©");
document.write(" 11/16/2011) (Registration Required)\n
TALLAHASSEE - With Gov. Rick Scott throwing his political weight behind it, a move to revamp Florida's no-fault auto insurance program will be pushed to the forefront of the 2012 Legislature.\n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n Legislature may weigh reforms, and the battle \ncould get heated\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\nBut with a similar bill failing in 2011, there are no guarantees that proponents of cha...\n
Panel clears state pension fund
\n(Sarasota Herald-Tribune © 11/16/2011) (Registration Required)\n
TALLAHASSEE - A state panel concluded Monday that Florida's massive pension fund did nothing wrong when it hired a company with ties to the fund's executive director.\n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\nFlorida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater asked an advisory panel last month to look into a decision by the st");
document.write("ate to invest $125 million with a firm that specializes in shaking up o...\n
Florida CFO Jeff Atwater calls for ban on referral services like 1-800-AskGary
\n(St. Petersburg Times © 11/16/2011) (Registration Required)\n
Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater on Tuesday called for a ban on accident ");
document.write("lawyer referral services, like 1-800-ASK-GARY and 411-PAIN, which have proliferated on television, Facebook and other media in recent years.\n\nAtwater's Department of Financial Services has been investigating referral services for several years, examining whether close ties among for-profit referral services, lawye...\n
Legislative Efforts Underway to Salvage P");
document.write("IP Auto Coverage from Rampant Fraud
\n(Sunshine State News © 11/16/2011)
Posted: November 16, 2011 3:55 AM \n \n\nGov. Rick Scott and CFO Jeff AtwaterA Florida House committee will begin discussions Wednesday to answer the call for reform of personal injury protection auto insurance by Gov. Rick Scott and Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater.\n\nAtwater said organized crime and ?huckster? legal services have driven up personal injury premiums by $910 million t...\n
Scott supports shrinking Fla. hurricane fund
\n(Tallahassee Democrat © 11/16/2011) (Registration Required)\n
Gov. Rick Scott said Tuesday that he supports shrinking Florida's hurricane insurance backup fund even though that would raise premiums.\n\nScott also said he sees no need to abolish the state's mandatory no-fault automobile insurance system, which has been riddled with massive fraud. ");
document.write("Scott said he's confident lawmakers can find a way to fix the system.\n\nThe governor and Florida Cabinet took no acti...\n
Fix PIP to protect Florida businesses and consumers
\n(Tampa Tribune © 11/16/2011)
Florida's no-fault system is creating problems for Florida's businesses and consumers. Florida is the No. 1 state in the Uni");
document.write("ted States for fraudulent auto insurance claims and is home to four of the 10 worst cities for auto insurance fraud: Tampa, Miami, Orlando and Hialeah.\n\nFlorida Office of Insurance Regulation statistics reveal that there are fewer drivers, fewer collisions and fewer crash-rel...\n
Florida Fraudbuster Urges Ban on Lawyer Crash-Referral Networks
Florida Fraudbuster Urges Ban on Lawyer Crash-Referral NetworksDavid ArmstrongNov 16, 2011 12:36 am ETNov. 16 (Bloomberg) -- The chief financial officer for the state of Florida is calling for an end to heavily advertised accident referral services blamed for driving up the cost of treating auto accident victims. Jeff Atwater, who as CFO oversees insurance investigations, wrote a letter yester...\n
Supreme Court to review health care law in midst of election year
\n(Austin American-Statesman © 11/15/2011) (Registration Required)\n
Published: 11:09 p.m. Monday, Nov. 14, 2011\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThe Supreme Court on Monday agreed to hear a challenge to the 2010 health care overhaul law, President Barack Obama's signature legislative achievement, setting the stage for oral argument");
document.write("s by March and a decision in late June as the 2012 presidential campaign enters its crucial final months.\r\n\r\nWhatever the outcome, there...\n
We Care Manatee helps save lives of those without insurance
\n(Bradenton Herald © 11/15/2011)
Herald Health Correspondent\n \n\nBefore a plunging economy shattered the Florida constructio");
document.write("n industry, Mark McLean had a good job driving trucks for a concrete company. That job ended with a layoff in 2008, along with McLean’s group health insurance.\n\nHe took the option of extending the insurance past his severance date through Cobra. The premiums, at $400 a month, chewed through his savi...\n
Supreme Court will hear Obama health care overhau");
document.write("l
\n(Detroit Free Press © 11/15/2011)
WASHINGTON ? The Supreme Court said today it will hear arguments in March over President Barack Obama's health care overhaul ? a case that could shake the political landscape just as voters are deciding if Obama deserves another term.\n\nThe decision to hear arguments in the spring allows plenty of time for a decision in late June, just over four months before Election Day. This sets up an election-...\n
Florida Morning: Supremes to take up health care challenge; candidate rankings coming to Florida
\n(Florida Times-Union © 11/15/2011)
By: Matt Dixon (matt.dixon@jacksonville.com, @Mdixon55) \n\n\n\nFlorida Morning appears every weekday. Subscribe via e-mail. \n\n\n\nPROPERTY TAX AMENDMENT Sen. David Simmons is advancing a re-worked and slightly less generous commercial property tax constitutional amendment than the ver");
document.write("sion the Florida Legislature last spring voted to place on the 2012 ballot. Or...\n
Supreme Court to Hear Challenge to Obama Health Care Law
\n(Fox News © 11/15/2011)
* \n AP\n A new wrinkle has surfaced in the implementation of the federal health care law that critics argue will impose a significant penalty on women a");
document.write("nd marriage.\n \n \n \n\nThe U.S. Supreme Court will hear a challenge to President Obama's signature law on health care, it said Monday in an announcement that has nearly as much impact on partisan politics as the final decision...\n
Supreme Court to rule on overhaul
\n(Ft. Myers News-Press © 11/15/2011) (Registration Required)\n
It?s on to the Supreme Court for President Barack Obama?s controversial Affordable Care Act, the law that will mandate all Americans to have health insurance in 2014.\n\nJustices said Monday that they will hear 5 hours of oral arguments, highly unusual because the court rarely allows more than an hour in cases its hears.\n\nThose arguments will likely be held in March. When a decision might be made, t...\n
Floridas largest insurer wants sweeping changes
\n(Jackson County Floridan © 11/15/2011)
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — Florida's largest property insurer wants sweeping changes — including the ability to charge higher rates — in the coming year.\n\nThe board that governs Citizens Property Insurance voted on Monday to ask state legislators to change state law as part of an effort to shrink the size of the insurer. The state-created insurer has nearly 1.5 million");
document.write(" policyh...\n
Florida's fight against automobile insurance fraud
\n(Orlando Sentinel © 11/15/2011) (Registration Required)\n
Fighting automobile insurance fraud is a top priority for Gov. Rick Scott, key legislators, regulators and the insurance industry this year because they say it's driving up premium");
document.write("s.\n\n\n\n\n\nBut insurers say they can't guarantee lower insurance rates, even if legislation is passed to combat personal injury protection, or PIP, insurance fraud.\n\n\n\n\n\nPIP pays medical bills for policyholders injured in a...\n
Today in Tallahassee: Funeral picketing, insurance rates
\n(Orlando Sentinel © 11/15/2011) (Registration Required)\n
TALLAHASSEE — It’s a day full of committee meetings at the state capitol with lawmakers hearing presentation on budget issues on public schools, the clerks and Medicaid. Plus, the Cabinet meets and there’s another gambling press conference.\n\n\nHere are some of the highlights of the day.\n\n\n* The Florida Cabinet hears a presentation on the Florida Catastrophe Fund. In October, finan...\n
Fla. largest insurer wants sweeping changes
\n(Palm Beach Post © 11/15/2011) (Registration Required)\n
Florida's largest property insurer wants sweeping changes — including the ability to charge higher rates — in the coming year.\n\nIt may be a hard sell during a contentious election year, but the board that governs Citizens Property Insurance voted on Monday to ask state legislators to approve a long list of changes during the upcoming session th");
document.write("at starts in January.\n\nThose in charge of ...\n
Florida's Citizens insurance wants to up rates
\n(Pensacola News Journal © 11/15/2011)
TALLAHASSEE ? Florida's largest property insurer wants sweeping changes ? including the ability to charge higher rates ? in the coming year.\n\nIt may be a hard sell during a contentious election ");
document.write("year, but the board that governs Citizens Property Insurance voted on Monday to ask state legislators to approve a long list of changes during the upcoming session that starts in January.\n\nThose in charge o...\n
Health law to get broad SCOTUS look
\n(Politico.com © 11/15/2011)
The Supreme Court agreed Monday to take a broader l");
document.write("ook at President Barack Obama’s health reform law than most people expected over the course of 5-plus hours of oral argument — an unprecedented amount of time in the court’s modern history.\n\nThe court’s decision to accept a challenge to the law’s individual mandate was widely anticipated. But what surprised many was t...\n
Florida");
document.write("?s push for specific waiver in health-care law could have big implications
\n(Washington Post © 11/15/2011) (Registration Required)\n
A seemingly obscure regulatory battle in Florida could upend efforts to implement health-care reform nationwide.\n \n\nAt issue is a regulation requiring insurance companies to spend at least 80 percent of premiums on medical costs. Florida, a swing state with voters skeptical of the health-reform law, is pushing back. The state wants the Obama administration to waive the spending requirement for Fl...\n
");
document.write("
Bondi praises SCOTUS for taking up healthcare challenge
\n(WFSU Newsroom © 11/15/2011)
Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi is applauding a decision by the U.S. Supreme Court to take up the state-led challenge to the federal healthcare law. Lynn Hatter reports Florida is leading a coalition of 25 other states and the National Feder");
document.write("ation of Independent Businesses in an effort to get the law overturned.\n\nThe case centers on whether a requirement that people purchase health insurance of ...\n
Insurance Plan Ripe For Change
\n(Lakeland Ledger © 11/14/2011) (Registration Required)\n
TALLAHASSEE -- After forcing state workers to help pa");
document.write("y for their pensions this year, lawmakers and Gov. Rick Scott may turn to employees'' health insurance to save money next year.\r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\nWorkers now have to pay some toward their health care, but not nearly as much as in the private sector. And that is especially true of those classifie...\n
Peltier c");
document.write("olumn: Insurance issues resurface
\n(Marco Island News © 11/14/2011) (Registration Required)\n
TALLAHASSEE ? Confronting an industry costing motorists $1 billion a year in higher premiums, lawmakers this week will turn their attention to reining in costs for an increasingly controversial coverage that was supposed to save money by keeping people out of court.\n\nPersonal injury protection, commonly referred to as PIP, is a required coverage on all automobile insurance policies. It provides up...\n
Reform Citizens, Cat Fund to prevent financial disaster
\n(Bradenton Herald © 11/13/2011)
Based on a request from Gov. Scott, management from Citizens Property Insurance Corp. is expected to submit a proposal to the Florida Cabinet with a plan to reduce Citizens’ size and risk.\n\nWe look forward to hearing the suggestions presented by Citizens because for years we ");
document.write("have supported reform of both Citizens and the Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Fund and are pleased to finally have a gov...\n
Supreme Court prepares to take on health care law challenges
\n(Bradenton Herald © 11/13/2011)
McClatchy Newspapers\n \n\nSupreme Court justices appear poised to thrust themselves and the Obama administra");
document.write("tion's signature health care law smack into the middle of the 2012 election.\n\n As early as Monday, following a closed-door session last week, the justices will reveal whether they will consider one or more challenges to the law. If they do, as every court watcher expects, the program th...\n
Make sure your auto insurance covers you against uninsured driver");
document.write("s
\n(Fort Worth Star-Telegram © 11/13/2011) (Registration Required)\n
Randy and Donna Smith waited at a stop sign in Fort Worth in August when another motorist rammed into their car from behind. Their car was pushed across North Beach Street. The other driver took off.A third motorist, Tommy Stover, followed the driver who hit the Smiths' car. \"I was right on his tail. He knew I had his license plate number,\" the good Samaritan said.The hit-and-run driver made a U-t...\n
State wants workers to pony up for health insurance
\n(Ft. Myers News-Press © 11/13/2011) (Registration Required)\n
A state job used to mean you wouldn''t get rich, but you could count on three things: job security, a paid-up pension and pretty good insurance.\r\n\r\nHow are we doin so far? Department of Management Services Secretary Jack Miles asked ruefully.\r\n\r\nState gove");
document.write("rnment has shed about 6,900 jobs in Gov. Rick Scott''s first nine months in office and has extracted 3 percent contributions from paychecks for...\n
State workers' health care may be next target for cost savings
\n(Gainesville Sun © 11/13/2011) (Registration Required)\n
TALLAHASSEE — After forcing ");
document.write("state workers to help pay for their pensions this year, lawmakers and Gov. Rick Scott may turn to employees' health insurance to save money next year.\n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\nWorkers now have to pay some toward their health care, but not nearly as much as in the private sector. And that is especially true of those classified as \"managers\" ...\n
City Officials Nervous About Financial Fallout
\n(Lakeland Ledger © 11/13/2011) (Registration Required)\n
LAKELAND | A hulking mountain of ash sitting inside the Lakeland city limits isn't exactly a point of pride, but city officials would rather see it stay than go.\n \n \n\n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n Facts\n \n\nFly ash applications include its use as a:\n-- Raw material in concrete products and grout\n-- Feed stock in the production of cement\n-- Fill material for structural applications and embankme...\n
A buoyed healthcare law reaches Supreme Court
\n(Orlando Sentinel © 11/13/2011) (Registration Required)\n
Reporting from Washington\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\nAfter a year and a half of legal skirmishing, President Obama's embattled healthcare law has arrived at ");
document.write("the Supreme Court riding a surprising winning streak and carrying a constitutional stamp of approval from prominent conservative judges.\n\n\n\n\n\nOnly three of the 12 appellate judges ...\n
Life insurance 101
\n(Sebring News Sun © 11/13/2011)
Life insurance has no one-size-fits-all option. Singles with no dependents often need litt");
document.write("le or no coverage. But it can be an important purchase for people whose families depend on their income to cover daily living costs, mortgage repayment, college, retirement or other major expenses.\n\n\n\n\nAccording to Larry Davidman, owner of online insurance brokerage TermWorks.com, life insurance needs often c...\n
Main Street America creates national surety bo");
document.write("nd unit
\n(Jacksonville Business Journal © 11/11/2011) (Registration Required)\n
The Main Street America Group has created a new commercial surety national accounts unit for commercial surety bond needs on large accounts.\n\n\nThe new national accounts team ? which is staffed by Merritt Willits, Paul Bergenholtz and Adam Rehn ? will work with Main Street America?s independent insurance agents to find businesses that generate annual revenue up to $1 billion. The businesses they wi...\n
GOP voters: Don’t cut Medicare or Social Security, AARP Florida poll finds
\n(Miami Herald © 11/11/2011) (Registration Required)\n
Florida Republican voters have a clear feeling about cuts to Medicare and Social Security: Don’t do it, according to a new poll by the AARP.By wide margins, the survey shows that Republicans of all kinds — whe");
document.write("ther they’re Hispanic, moderates or in the tea party — would rather fix the nation’s budget by withdrawing from the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, eliminating f...\n
Five ways companies can cut their health insurance costs
\n(Orlando Business Journal © 11/11/2011) (Registration Required)\n");
document.write("
Abraham Aboraya Reporter - Orlando Business Journal\n \n Email\n \n\n \n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nIt?s open enrollment season in Florida, and chances are your employees are experiencing sticker shock connected with increased costs of their health insurance.\n\n\nConsider this: In 2006, the average health plan cost $4,24...\n
Poll: Big GOP majorities oppose entitlement cuts
\n(Orlando Sentinel © 11/11/2011) (Registration Required)\n
TALLAHASSEE – In a split with their party's candidates, Florida Republicans oppose by large margins the budget-balancing proposals espoused by some GOP presidential hopefuls to");
document.write(" cut benefits for future Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries.\n\nFlorida AARP, the powerful advocacy group for seniors, released a survey Thursday suggesting the current Washington debate over slashing entitlement...\n
Auto Insurance Fraud: Gear Up Florida Coalition Launches
\n(Tallahassee-WCTV (CBS) © 11/11/2011)
Tallaha");
document.write("ssee, FL -- November 10, 2011 --\n \n \n \n\nGear Up Florida today unveiled a new coalition to put the brakes on automobile accident fraud in Florida. The coalition ? comprised of Florida residents, law enforcement agencies and business associations ? is dedicated to protecting Florida?s insurance consumers from soaring costs resulting from the criminal abuse of Flo...\n
Lawmakers to tackle PIP fraud in upcoming session
\n(WFSU Newsroom © 11/11/2011)
Every Floridian who drives a car could be affected by the actions of the Florida Legislature during the 2012 session that begins in January. Tom Flanigan reports lawmakers have already begun struggling with the unintended consequences of an auto insurance law that's marking its fortieth anniversary \n\nRobin Westcott in the office of Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater, says the state's \"no...\n
Florida Leads the Nation in Accident Fraud; Honest Drivers Pay the Price
\n(WJXX ABC 25 Duval County © 11/11/2011)
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- Florida drivers are paying 56 percent more for auto insurance compared to people in other states because of rampant accident fraud, according to a new coalition of law enforcement and business groups. \n\nThe group called Gear Up Flori");
document.write("da says the state leads the nation in staged accidents and that's costing Florida drivers hundreds of millions of dollars in higher insurance prem...\n
Governor Scott vows to reform PIP insurance
\n(DeSoto Sun Herald © 11/10/2011)
TAMPA (AP) ? Gov. Rick Scott is vowing to make changes that will combat fraud in Florida?s no fau");
document.write("lt auto insurance system.\nScott met Wednesday in Tampa with Hillsborough County sheriff?s officials and lawmakers to discuss the state?s mandatory personal injury protection coverage.\nThe governor heard from investigators, citizens and others who say fraudulent insurance claims for staged crashes take ...\n
Condo, insurer settle hurricane damage claim for $2.");
document.write("1 million
\n(Miami Daily Business Review © 11/10/2011)
Michael Higer and Catalina Avalos \n\nCase: Olympus Association v. Florida Insurance Guaranty Association\n\nCase no: 08-024182\n\nDescription: Insurance liability\n\nFiling date: May 30, 2008\n\nSettlement date: Oct. 13, 2011\n\nAmount: $2.1 million\n\nJudge: Broward Circuit Judge Mily Rodriguez-Powell\n\nPlaintiff attorney: Michael Higer, Higer Lichter & Givner, Aventura; Catalina Avalos, Tripp Scott, Fort ...\n
Insurers told to refund $114.5 million in NY state
\n(Oregonian © 11/10/2011)
ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — New York state officials have ordered 11 companies to refund $114.5 million to holders of health insurance policies covering more than 570,000 people who were overcharged for premiums last year.\n\n\nUnder state law, insurers are required to spend 82 cents of every dollar collected in premiums on providing medical care.\n\n\nIf they ");
document.write("fall short they are required to refund the di...\n
Employees pass up health insurance benefits as costs rise
\n(Orlando Sentinel © 11/10/2011) (Registration Required)\n
The rising cost of health insurance is pushing more South Florida employees to consider what had been unthinkable: Passing up medical c");
document.write("overage offered at work.\n\nA strata of young, physically fit workers have always skipped employer health benefits they view as an unnecessary cost. But insurance agents say a growing number of older employees and even families are trying to save money by switching t...\n
High court allows $10.3M award to stand in medical malpractice case
\n");
document.write("(Orlando Sentinel © 11/10/2011) (Registration Required)\n
Ever since her husband's heart was irrevocably damaged in 2003 when he wasn't given critical medicine at Palms West Hospital, former Wellington resident Nadine Raphael has been waiting for justice.\n\nShe got it this week when the Florida Supreme Court let stand a $10.3 million verdict despite arguments that it should be reduced to less than $1 million because of caps the Legislature placed on jury ...\n
Supreme Court lets stand $10.3 million award in Palm Beach County medical malpractice case
\n(Palm Beach Post © 11/10/2011) (Registration Required)\n
Since her husband's heart was irrevocably damaged in 2003 when he wasn't given critical medicine at Palms West Hospital, former Wellington resident Nadine Raphael has been waiting for justice.\n\nShe got it this week when the Florida Supreme Court let sta");
document.write("nd a $10.3 million verdict despite arguments that it should be reduced to less than $1 million because of caps the Florida Legislature placed on ju...\n
Florida Ranks Third for Highest Medigap Premiums
\n(Pensacola News Journal © 11/10/2011)
Nationwide seniors are in the midst of the open enrollment period for Medicare supplem");
document.write("ent insurance (Medigap). Medigap covers the \"gaps\" in covereage for costs not covered by Medicare itself. As seniors make these important health decisons, they should be aware of the wide differences in premium prices for these policies.\n\nSeniors living in Connecticut pay more for Medigap than those in other st...\n
Gov. Scott vows to reform auto insurance<");
document.write("/font>
\n(Pensacola News Journal © 11/10/2011)
TAMPA, Fla. -- Gov. Rick Scott is vowing to make changes that will combat fraud in Florida''s no fault auto insurance system.\r\n\r\nScott met today in Tampa with Hillsborough County sheriff''s officials and lawmakers to discuss the state''s mandatory personal injury protection coverage.\r\n \r\nThe governor heard from investigators, citizens and others who say fraudulent insurance claims for staged crash...\n
Governor says he'll look to Hillsborough for crackdown on auto insurance fraud
\n(St. Petersburg Times © 11/10/2011) (Registration Required)\n
TAMPA — Gov. Rick Scott didn't mince words about auto insurance fraud during a discussion among politicians and citizens Wednesday:\n\n\"We have to do something about this,\" he said. \"We have to get rid of fraud.\"\n\nHe said he's looking to Hillsborough County for ideas on how to ");
document.write("go about tackling it.\n\nSitting among citizens, county officials and law enforcement officers who have made it their go...\n
Do Red Cars Really Get Pulled Over More?
\n(Orlando-WESH (NBC) © 11/09/2011)
By Eisla Sebastian, Contributing writer\n\n\nOne of the dreaded evils of driving is getting pulled over by the police.\n\nThis event");
document.write(" can ruin a perfectly good day and can be very hard on your bank account.\n\nEven though a police officer or highway patrolman is just doing his or her job to keep the roadways safe, some drivers feel like they have a target on their backs. While others race by going 20 mile...\n
Study tallies health costs of climate disasters
\n(MSNBC ©");
document.write("; 11/08/2011) (Registration Required)\n
WASHINGTON — Natural disasters tied to climate change not only cause physical damage but create significant health costs in terms of hospitalizations and lives lost prematurely, according to a study published Monday that looked at six recent disasters in the United States.\n \n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ...\n
Citizens cuts some insurance coverage
\n(Orlando Sentinel © 11/08/2011) (Registration Required)\n
Starting next year, Citizens Property Insurance will drop coverage on almost everything but the main building on a property.\n\n\n\n\n\nThat means no more coverage for awnings, gazebos, tiki huts and most carports and screened-in pool enclosures.\n\n\n\n\n\nThere will be some exceptions. For instance, patios attached to the main building ");
document.write("with the same roof material likely would be covered, according to an ema...\n
Olympus May Sue Executives Who Hid Losses Using Acquisition Fees
\n(Washington Post © 11/08/2011) (Registration Required)\n
Olympus May Sue Executives Who Hid Losses Using Acquisition FeesMariko Yasu and Naoko FujimuraNov 08, ");
document.write("2011 12:41 am ETNov. 8 (Bloomberg) -- Olympus Corp. said three executives helped conceal decades of losses by paying inflated fees to takeover advisers, the first admission of wrongdoing since accusations from its former chief executive officer engulfed the Japanese camera maker in scandal four we...\n
Sihle Insurance Group opens Vero Beach office; seeks top ");
document.write("producers, agencies to join the firm
\n(Jupiter Courier © 11/07/2011)
Sihle Insurance Group President Ken Sihle announced that the firm plans significant expansion in Florida and Georgia in the next two years, and is seeking top personal and commercial producers to join the company to execute its growth plans.The announcement came as the company held grand opening ceremonies for its 7th Florida regional office here in Vero Beach, located at 65 Royal Palm Pointe, ove...\n
Understanding Medicare Open Enrollment
\n(Largo Patch.com © 11/07/2011)
It is that time of year. No, not winter or the holiday season. It is open enrollment for Medicare. This year?s enrollment period is earlier than prior years and adults ages 65 and over have until Dec. 7 to make their selections.
\n\n\nDuring the open enrollment period, seniors should review all their options. While their choices for coverage ma");
document.write("y be similar to previous years, there are some rate c...\n
Health plans get 8% hike
\n(New York Post © 11/07/2011)
It’s enough to make your blood pressure skyrocket.\n\nNew York regulators approved hikes averaging 8 percent in health insurance premiums for next year following requests by the companies. The firms had sought");
document.write(" an average increase of 12.7 percent. \n\nThe state Department of Financial Services slashed the proposed increase by one-third, to 8.2 percent, reducing the increase by $400 million. \n\nUnd...\n
Women accused of worker's compensation fraud
\n(Sarasota Herald-Tribune © 11/07/2011) (Registration Required)\n
\n(South Florida Business Journal © 11/07/2011) (Registration Required)\n
AvMed Health Plans lost $13.5 million from its HMO in the first six months of the year and A.M. Best Co. recently downgraded its credit rating outlook to \"negative\" from \"stable.\"\n\n\nThe Miami-based company, a subsidiary of Gainesville-based SantaFe HealthCare, suffered the second-largest loss among all Florida HMOs in the first half of 2011, according to Florida Office of Insurance R");
document.write("egulation data...\n
Seven ways to save on health insurance
\n(South Florida Sun-Sentinel © 11/07/2011) (Registration Required)\n
\n• Overview | Tips\n\n• List of Health Plans\n\n• List of Prescription Drug Plans\n\n• Medicare Guide: Resource to help you choose a plan\n\n\n\n\n\n ");
document.write(" \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ...\n
Think your home insurance premiums are high? Think again, says agent
\n(South Florida Sun-Sentinel © 11/0");
document.write("7/2011) (Registration Required)\n
Home and condominium insurance policyholders have complained about insurance rate hikes in recent years despite Florida dodging a direct hurricane hit since 2005.\n\n\nWhile many policyholders in South Florida have experienced rate hikes recently, they may be surprised to find their premiums are lower now than they were in 2005 and 2006.\n\n\nAt least that's the contention of one local insurance agent, ...\n
Seven ways to save on health insurance
\n(Orlando Sentinel © 11/06/2011) (Registration Required)\n
If your paycheck shrinks in 2012, the culprit may be rising health insurance costs. But you can save money by making the right choices this fall.\n\n\n\n\n\nThe cost of healthcare coverage is expected to increase 5.9 percent in 2012, according to consultant Towers Watson.\n\n\n\n\n\nThat makes it more important than ever to know how to save du");
document.write("ring \"open enrollment,\" the time period each year when employees ha...\n
Steve Pociask: Consumers, taxpayers lose in Citizens sinkhole debacle
\n(Tallahassee Democrat © 11/06/2011) (Registration Required)\n
The debacle involving Citizens Property Insurance Corp. and the sinkhole rates that it charges co");
document.write("nsumers points out one clear thing — that Citizens is not a true insurance company.\n\nIt is a socialized mechanism that undercuts the private market and maintains artificially low rates because it has the power to tax all policyholders when it suffers losses. The losses are here. Over the past fo...\n
Florida drivers fourth worst in nation
\n(Bradenton Herald © 11/05/2011)
dchang@miamiherald.com\n \n\nWe’re No. 4.\n\nThere’s not much enthusiasm in being fourth best. But when it comes to the nation’s worst drivers, maybe it’s better not to finish first.\n\nFlorida drivers were ranked fourth worst in the nation, according to a report issued Friday by CarInsuranceComparison.com, a Seattle-based online clearinghouse for car insurance rates and informatio...\n
Florida CFO Jeff Atwater Announces Seven Insurance Fraud Arrests in Orlando and Miami
\n(East Lake Blister © 11/05/2011)
Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater announced today the arrests of five insurance fraud suspects for their involvement in a staged accident scheme in Orlando. Lufaite Olizia, 40, and Tracey McFarlane, 40, were charged with insurance fraud, patient brokering and intentionally staging a motor vehicle crash. Pierre Antoine Joseph, 41, Mad");
document.write("eline Emile, 28, and Yolando Denise Roberts, 39, were...\n
Insurance industry's sinkhole hypocrisy will hurt Florida's economy
\n(St. Petersburg Times © 11/05/2011) (Registration Required)\n
The home looks like many of the others in the Seven Hills development. Built by Rutenberg Construction Co. in 198");
document.write("9, it features 2,300 square feet of living space, three bedrooms, two baths, a caged swimming pool overlooking the golf course fairway in back and minor cracks in the driveway leading to the cul-de-sac out front.\n\nThe driveway imperfections are cosmetic, not catastrophic. An April 2010 ...\n
Insurers' legislative wish-list and how it would affect you
\n(Orlando Sentinel © 11/04/2011) (Registration Required)\n
Florida insurance industry representatives know state lawmakers may not end up spending as much time on insurance issues during the legislative session that starts in January as they have in years past.\n\n\nBut some have a wish-list of changes they said could improve the state's insurance market. Don Brown, a consultant who is former state legislator and insurance agent, John Rollins, an insurance i...\n
Orlando residents accused of staging car crash, insurance fraud
\n(Orlando Sentinel © 11/04/2011) (Registration Required)\n
Five Orlando residents were arrested for their suspected roles in an insurance fraud case that involved a staged car accident, the Florida Department of Financial Services announced Friday.\n\n\n\n\n\nLufaite Olizia, 40, and Tracey McFarlane, 40, are accused of solicitin");
document.write("g people to intentionally stage a vehicle accident, which occurred in Orlando on July 10, 2010.\n\n\n\n\n\nState investigators say Olizia and...\n
Citizens cuts some insurance coverage
\n(South Florida Sun-Sentinel © 11/04/2011) (Registration Required)\n
Starting next year, Citizens Property Insurance will dr");
document.write("op coverage on almost everything but the main building on a property.\n\nThat means no more coverage for awnings, gazebos, tiki huts and most carports and screened-in pool enclosures.\n\nThere will be some exceptions. For instance, patios attached to the main building with the same roof material likely would be covered, according to an email Citiz...\n
Gov. Rick ");
document.write("Scott: Citizens Insurance board to help solve issues
\n(St. Petersburg: WTSP (Ch. 10) © 11/04/2011)
TALLAHASSEE, Florida (AP) - Gov. Rick Scott wants the board overseeing Citizens Property Insurance Corp. to help solve some issues plaguing the state-backed insurer.\n\nScott said Thursday the board has some of the brightest minds in the insurance field and he expects them to also help with Florida's overall property insurance market.\n\nThe Citizens board meets Nov. 14 in Orlando. They'll discuss pos...\n
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document.write("Governor Scott looks to crack down on high auto insurance rates
\n(Tampa Bay News 9 © 11/04/2011)
ORLANDO -- \n \n \n\nSkyrocketing auto insurance premiums brought Governor Rick Scott to Orlando Thursday.\n \n\nThe Governor, along with Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater, met with a group of people who work in relations to the automobile insurance industry ");
document.write("to figure out new ideas to lower the state's increasing auto insurance rates.\n \n\nThe governor said peo...\n
Governor Scott to take on PIP fraud
\n(WOLF ? Fox Orlando © 11/04/2011)
ORLANDO, Fla. (WOFL FOX 35) - Governor Rick Scott visited Orlando on Thursday, promising to find a solution to the problem of rising car insu");
document.write("rance rates. \n\nHe believes most of the problem lies in PIP, or Personal Injury Protection, insurance. Florida drivers are required to carry it. Scott says that program is rife with fraud, and it's just like a tax on residents. \n\n\"This is a tax. Because you li...\n
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