Tuesday, November 26, 2013

We're looking for a Deputy Commissioner of Operations

We're currently recruiting for a Deputy Commissioner of Operations. This in an executive level exempt position that manages 35 employees in the following areas: Human resources, budget and fiscal, facilities and telecommunications, information technology and public records.

The successful candidate will be an active member of the Executive Management Team (EMT), setting the strategic direction of the agency, developing legislative priorities, ensuring fiscal responsibility and creating an inclusive, performance-based work environment.

Here's the full job announcement. Please share with anyone you think could be interested.

The job is open until Dec. 9, 2014.

Friday, November 15, 2013

Why the commissioner decided against allowing canceled policies back into Washington

President Obama’s announcement this week that previously canceled individual health-insurance policies for 2014 could be reinstated – at the discretion of insurance commissioners – drew a lot of attention.

Washington state Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler acted quickly, deciding against allowing the previously discontinued policies to be put back into effect. The reasons are straightforward: The proposal does not make sense for Washington because of the overall negative effect on the stability of the health-insurance market.

To learn more about Commissioner Kreidler’s decision, please check his statement.

You can also see what is really happening with those canceled policies and how many consumers can qualify for more comprehensive coverage at less cost.

Tuesday, November 5, 2013

Canceled health plans? What's really happening.

There's been a lot of news lately about insurers cancelling some health plans and changing others. Consumers have been getting the word through  'discontinuation' notices.

So what's really going on? This is happening in the individual market - where people who don't get coverage from their employer - buy their own health plans.   Most likely, the existing plans being canceled or changed, failed to meet new federal standards for benefits.  The reality about most of these previous plans is that they provided extremely limited benefits - no maternity care or coverage for prescription drugs, for example.

Beginning Jan. 1, 2014, plans must provide everyone basic essential benefits, such as maternity care, prescription drug coverage and mental health services.  And no longer can insurance companies ask you about previous illnesses you may have had. They must accept everyone.

Premiums will change for some plans. But if you received a notice from your insurance company, it does not mean you have to stay with whatever they offer. You can shop around for plans, either in the new Exchange - www.wahealthplanfinder.org or from insurers selling outside of the Exchange.

Here's a map of all individual plans available by county.

For more details about insurers cancelling policies, check out this piece by Kaiser Health News.

Monday, November 4, 2013

"Where do I get a detailed review of my auto and homeowners premiums?"

We recommend that you get a policy-specific premium breakdown directly from your agent (or insurer, if you buy direct). Specifically, you might want to ask for a rate worksheet comparison between your last year's premium and your current annual premium. That's a good way to get an apples-to-apples comparison of what your rates are doing.

While you're at it, it's a good idea to make sure that the type and level of coverage is what you want. If you're driving a new car, you'll likely want comprehensive and collision coverage as well as liability (the latter is required by law.) If you're driving a $1,000 car, on the other hand, maybe liability coverage is enough. These are good things to discuss with your agent or company, particularly if you have changes in your life (new car, change in household members, moving, etc.)

Friday, November 1, 2013

Our home was damaged by a windstorm. We're worried. What's next?


We get this question a lot. It's very important that you try to safeguard your home from further damage. Depending on the type of damage, you may be able to safely do this yourself or you may need to hire someone - especially if you need to get a tarp on the roof if you're dealing with utilities or damaged and unstable structures.
 
You'll also want to contact your insurance agent or your insurer directly to let them know what’s going on, and to get any necessary instructions from them. They can also tell you how your coverage will apply. Most importantly, stay safe!