Pub. 8 2013-2014 Issue 3

www.nebankers.org 24 Extraordinary Service for Extraordinary Members. Y ou’re probably hearing lots of talk about the new health care law and changes that are coming. But what does it all mean for you and your family? As a member of the NBAVoluntary Employees Beneficiary Association (VEBA), here are some things you should know. Q: How does health care reform affect me? A: At this time, health care reform does not have a dras- tic affect on employees of large businesses or members of organizations such as the NBA VEBA. Provisions of health care reform, also known as the Af- fordable Care Act, do affect large and small business owners, employees of small businesses, and those who have, or are looking for, individual health insurance. However, health care reform’s impact on employees or members of large groups such as the NBA VEBA will be minimal in 2014. Q: I’ve heard of something called a “Marketplace” or “Exchange.” What is that? A: You are going to hear a lot about the new Health Insurance Marketplace that opens Oct. 1. This is an online option for individuals and small business owners to shop for and purchase health care coverage. Since you have access to health insurance through your employer, the Marketplace likely does not affect you. Q: Will I access my health insurance differently? A: No. Subscribing to health insurance through the NBA VEBA affords you the opportunity to keep your coverage and use it the same way you have in the past. Q: What benefits will I see because of health care reform? A: One of the benefits you may notice is health insurers will be required to cover pre-existing medical conditions. Beginning Jan. 1, 2014, people may enroll in health care coverage regardless of health status, age, gender, or other factors that might predict the use of health services. You’ll probably hear more about the new health care law, and it could get confusing. However, rest assured that at this time health care reformdoes not drastically affect members of large organizations such as the NBA VEBA. One of the many benefits of the NBA VEBAmembership is protection from the most onerous mandates of health care reform.  Health Care Reform & Your NBA VEBA If you have additional questions about health care reform and the NBA VEBA, please contact Karen Coufal at the NBA at (402) 474-1555 or karen. coufal@nebankers.org.