Consumer advocates and health experts are urging the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to take stronger action against "twisting" practices in the health insurance industry. Twisting occurs when insurers persuade policyholders to switch policies unnecessarily, often leading to higher costs and reduced coverage for consumers.

What is Twisting?

Twisting is a deceptive practice where insurance agents encourage policyholders to switch from one insurance policy to another without a valid reason. This often results in higher premiums and less favorable terms for the policyholder. Agents may use misleading information to make the new policy seem more beneficial than it actually is.

The Call to Action

Consumer advocacy groups and health policy experts are pressing CMS to implement stricter regulations to protect consumers from these harmful practices. They argue that twisting can lead to financial strain and reduced access to necessary medical care for those affected.

A recent report highlights several instances where policyholders were misled into switching policies, only to find themselves facing higher costs and limited coverage. This has prompted calls for increased oversight and enforcement of existing regulations to ensure consumer protection.

Impact on Consumers

The consequences of twisting can be severe for consumers. When policyholders are convinced to switch to a new policy under false pretenses, they may end up with:

• Higher Premiums: The new policy may have higher monthly payments, increasing the financial burden on the consumer.

• Reduced Coverage: The new policy might offer fewer benefits, leaving consumers with less protection than they previously had.

• Loss of Benefits: Consumers might lose out on certain benefits that were available in their original policy but are not included in the new one.

These negative impacts can lead to significant financial and health-related stress for individuals and families.

Regulatory Efforts

CMS has been urged to enhance regulatory measures to prevent twisting. This includes:

• Stricter Penalties: Implementing harsher penalties for insurers and agents found guilty of twisting practices.

• Better Consumer Education: Providing resources and information to help consumers understand their rights and the details of their insurance policies.

• Enhanced Monitoring: Increasing oversight of insurance agents and companies to ensure compliance with regulations.

Advocates argue that these steps are essential to protect consumers and maintain the integrity of the health insurance market.

Conclusion

The push for CMS to crack down on health insurance twisting underscores the need for stronger consumer protections in the insurance industry. By addressing this issue, CMS can help ensure that policyholders are not misled into making decisions that could harm their financial and health well-being. Increased regulation, better education, and stricter enforcement are key to achieving this goal.