January 7, 2019
Your Weekly HSA News
Read the latest news about Health Savings Accounts and consumer-driven health care.
News from Washington
No Deal to End Government Shutdown as Negotiations Continue in Washington
There were no breakthroughs in meetings Saturday between Congressional leadership staff and White House officials as both sides worked to reach an agreement to end the government shutdown, which is entering its third week.

House Passes Legislation to Re-open Government Despite Opposition from Trump
The House passed legislation to end the partial government shutdown on January 3, hours after Democrats took control of the chamber and elected Nancy Pelosi as Speaker. The House measures appear to be dead on arrival in the Senate and have been rejected by President Trump.

Judge Says ACA Will Remain in Effect During Appeal
The federal judge who declared the Affordable Care Act's individual coverage mandate unconstitutional last month issued an order on December 30 saying that despite his previous ruling the law can remain in effect pending appeal.

House Formally Moves to Intervene in Obamacare Lawsuit
House Democrats have officially filed a motion to intervene in defense of Obamacare in court against a Republican-led lawsuit. The motion, filed January 3, asks the court to allow the House to intervene as a defendant, alongside a group of Democratic states, since the Trump administration has declined to defend the law.

The HSA Market
Study: More Colleges Offer HDHPs
The number and proportion of colleges and universities offering health insurance plans with annual deductibles of $1,000 or more is growing sharply according to a new study by Sibson Consulting.

Essential Elements to Consider When Choosing an HSA Administrator
Choosing an HSA administrator isn't a decision that should be taken lightly. There are numerous factors to be taken into consideration to ensure the right fit. There are five essential elements to consider.

Maximizing Your HSA
Investing in an HSA? Better Shop Around
You’ll get the biggest benefit from your HSA if you invest the money for the future and use other cash for current expenses. While these accounts provide a tax-efficient way to save for future health care costs, high fees can diminish their appeal.

Consumer-Driven Health Care
As Hospitals Post Sticker Prices Online, Most Patients Will Remain Befuddled
As of January 1, in the name of transparency, the Trump administration required that all hospitals post their list prices online. While more information is always welcome, the new data will fall short of providing most consumers with usable insight.

Need to Know What You're Going to Pay for That Medical Procedure? Good Luck Getting the Exact Figure
A new federal rule says hospitals have to post how much their services and procedures cost. What we found is that it is still nearly impossible for you, as a patient, to find out exactly how much money you'll have to pay for a medical service. How can you be a consumer when no one tells you the exact price?

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